Athlete’s Foot: What It Is, The Symptoms And How To Prevent It
It is a common misperception that it is only athletes who can suffer from Athlete’s foot; on the contrary.
This fungal infection gets its name as it is often contracted in areas popular with athletes; swimming pools, public showers, and locker rooms. People walk barefoot on these surfaces transferring the fungus onto their feet.
Fungus
We all have bacteria and fungi present not only on our skin, but also inside our bodies – these bacteria can be both good and bad – but most are harmless until conditions change.
In the instance that conditions and surroundings do change however, fungi can multiply. This can result in an infection, such as Athlete’s Foot. Otherwise, and more generally known as, a fungal infection.
Symptoms
Athlete’s Foot often begins as a rash, in the spaces between your fourth and fifth toes, and if left untreated, a rash may form on the bottom and sides of your feet. Furthermore; it can spread to the toenails, causing them to dry out and crumble – otherwise known as a fungal nail infection or ringworm of the nail.
Watch out for signs of red, dry, flaky – sometimes scaly – skin which can often feel itchy.
As well as a rash in between your toes, you may notice other more serious symptoms, such as:
– Cracked skin
– Blisters
– Swelling
– Burning/stinging sensation
How To Prevent Athlete’s Foot
For a start, if you scratch the infected skin then touch other parts of your body, you may spread the infection. It is important to treat the infection and always wash your hands thoroughly after touching the rash.
Secondly, avoid those with it. Skin to skin contact is a prime situation for the infection to spread from one person to another.
However, also avoid indirect contact – yes, you needn’t even be near that person to spread the infection – avoid sharing towels, bed sheets and clothing.
About the Author: Maria Bantellis is a health writer on fungal conditions such as Athlete’s Foot
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