ATHLETE'S FOOT

General Information

DEFINITION--A common, contagious fungus infection of the skin on the feet.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Feet, especially the soles and skin between toes (usually 4th and 5th toes).

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes and all ages, but most common in adolescents and adults.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Moist, soft, gray-white or red scales on feet, especially between toes.
• Dead skin between toes.
• Itching in inflamed areas.
• Damp, musty foot odor.
• Small blisters on the feet (sometimes).

CAUSES--Infection by a Trichophyton fungus.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Infrequent washing of the feet.
• Infrequent changes of shoes or socks.
• Use of locker rooms and public showers.
• Hot, humid weather.
• People who are immunosuppressed due to illness or medications.
• Persistent moisture around the feet.

HOW TO PREVENT

• Bathe feet daily. Dry thoroughly and apply drying or dusting powder.
• Go barefoot when possible.
• Change shoes and socks daily.
• Wear socks made of cotton, wool or other natural, absorbent fibers. Avoid synthetics.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory culture and microscopic examination of scales.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Self-care after diagnosis.
• Doctor's treatment, if infection is severe or persistent.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Secondary bacterial infection in the affected area.
• Id reaction on hands and face (a rare skin rash).

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Usually curable in 3 weeks with treatment, but recurrence is common.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• After soaking or bathing, carefully remove scales and material between the toes daily.
• Keep affected areas cool and dry. Go barefoot or wear sandals during treatment.

MEDICATION--

• Use non-prescription antifungal powders, creams or ointments after each bath.
• For severe cases, your doctor may prescribe oral or more potent topical antifungal medications.

ACTIVITY--No restrictions. Temporarily avoid activities that cause feet to sweat.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

• You have severe symptoms of athlete's foot that persist, despite self-treatment.
• You develop fever or the infection seems to be spreading.