Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection also known as Tinea pedis. It is a common infection and is estimated to affect 70% of the general population.

Athlete’s foot infections spread very easily from person to person through contaminated towels, clothing or surfaces. They easily grow in warm and humid places such as showers, swimming pools and changing rooms.

Athlete’s foot occurs most commonly between the toes and may spread to the inside of the foot or cover the soles of the foot. The skin may be cracked or scaly with blisters, inflammation and an itching or burning sensation.

When should I see a doctor?

• Children under 12 years of age rarely develop athlete’s foot and should consult a doctor.
• If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or on medication that could compromise your immune system.
• If you have previously tried various treatments that have not worked or have used an over-the-counter product recently but your rash has not fully gone away.
• If your condition is impacting your day-to-day life, severely inflamed, weeping, painful
• If you have a fungal toenail infection

How did I get this infection?
Athlete’s Foot can spread very easily from other people, conditions that are very moist or you may have a genetic susceptibility. Going barefoot in public areas such as change room or around pools is very common.

Can it spread to other areas in my body?
Yes, Tinea pedis is often the cause of fungal infections to other parts of your body. It can occur from touching or scratching and not washing your hands.

What can be used during pregnancy?
The ingredients clotrimazole and miconazole are the agents of choice in pregnancy. If you are unsure about what you have, it is best to consult your doctor. Avoid applying to large areas of skin you’re your rash covers a large area consult your doctor.

• Skin should be kept dry to help stop infection from spreading.
• Dry well between the toes with a clean towel everyday.
• You can dry the rash by using hair dryer on cool setting.
• Wear socks made of natural, absorbent materials or synthetic blends.
• Wear footwear that is loose and it keeps the feet cool and dry.
• Wear well fitting, ventilated shoes and cotton socks
• Avoid going barefoot in public places.
• Avoid scratching affect skin to prevent spreading.
• Wash items used by infected person separately and often.
• Separate toes with cotton balls.
• You can use of non-medicated powders in addition to creams. Do not use cornstarch or powders that contain cornstarch because the organism feeds off of it.