Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot)
According to the Cleveland Clinic Center for Continuing Education, athlete’s foot is the most common fungal infection in persons in North America and Europe. Typical symptoms include a red, flaky rash, persistent itch and burning, and sometimes blisters or sores. Most commonly found between the toes, some varieties affect the soles and heels, even extending up the sides of the feet. To make matters worse, athlete’s foot can spread to the hands if one picks or scratches at the infected area.
The Mayo Clinic states that athlete’s foot is contagious, spread through warm, moist environments such as floors, shoes or towels. Athlete’s foot can usually be treated easily with over-the-counter ointments or sprays; however, in severe cases, prescription topical medicine or antifungal pills may be required.
A few tips to prevent athlete’s foot include:
· keeping your feet dry
· changing your socks often -- especially if your feet sweat a lot
· not sharing shoes or towels
· wearing shoes or flip-flops in communal places such as the gym or sauna
· using powder to help keep feet dry