Athlete’s Foot
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as Athlete's foot, is a common fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet.
This condition is caused by dermatophyte fungi, which feed on keratin, a protein that makes up the skin, hair and nails. This type of fungus favours warm and moist environments, making the foot an ideal environment! The spaces in between the toes are a particularly common place for tinea to develop. Athlete’s foot is highly contagious, and can be spread through skin to skin contact, or indirectly by sharing towels, bed sheets, shoes and socks.
The following can increase the chance of contracting tinea:
- Non-breathable footwear (synthetic fiber socks and shoe material)
- Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- Weakened immunity
Some signs of Athlete's foot to look out for
- Red, itchy rash
- Dry skin
- Wet or macerated skin between the toes
- Scaling, cracking and/or peeling of the skin
- Fluid filled blisters under the skin
- Build up of thickened, powdery skin on the sole of the foot (more common in chronic cases)
Diagnosis of Athlete's foot
In most cases, tinea pedis can be diagnosed clinically, however it’s presentation can be rather similar to numerous other skin conditions. We may consider sending skin scrapings to pathology for a definitive diagnosis, especially if treatment is ineffective.
Athlete's foot treatment
Athlete’s foot is a condition we frequently see at Dapto Foot Clinic. Your podiatrist will assess your feet and discuss the treatment options with you. Addressing causative factors such as occlusive footwear and excessive sweating is the first step. Depending on severity, topical over the counter treatment may be indicated. Oral antifungal medications may be recommended for those who do not respond to topical therapy. This may be indicated for more chronic or severe infections and is managed by your GP.