Avoiding Athlete’s Foot
It’s crazy itchy, and it’s red and flaky, it burns—it’s athlete’s foot, and at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know it’s something our Nature Coast patients would like to avoid. Athlete’s foot (or tinea pedis as it’s officially known) spreads by direct contact. That means there are several steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk of contracting this annoying foot infection.
Keep your feet covered. At the pool, gym, beachside showers, nail salons—pretty much anywhere other people tend to go barefoot—use shower shoes or flip-flops, and you’ll significantly reduce the likelihood of contracting this and other fungal, bacterial, and viral foot infections.
Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water. Dry thoroughly, especially between your toes, as this is often where the athlete’s foot starts.
Choose breathable footwear. Look for materials and styles that allow air circulation.
Pay attention to dampness. If you’re wearing closed shoes and you notice you’re perspiring and your socks feel moist, change them as soon as possible.
Rotate your shoes. Try not to wear the same pair for multiple days in a row. Give your shoes a chance to air out between uses.
Dust feet with an anti-fungal powder at the start of the day. It will help keep them dry.
Don’t share items with infected family members. If another family member develops athlete’s foot, don’t allow them to share the same bed with someone, and be sure to thoroughly clean the shower after the infected person has used it.
Don’t borrow foot care items. Avoid using another person’s nail clippers, flip-flops, or any other item that touches someone else’s feet.
If, despite your best attempts, you still contract athlete’s foot, don’t wait to seek treatment. Make an appointment at our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) at your soonest convenience and let our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, examine your feet and prescribe the most effective treatment. It’s important to note that athlete’s foot can spread quickly to other parts of your body and other people if not treated promptly.