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Footnotes / Blog

Monday, November 29th, 2010 Sean Kaufman

What is Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)?

Athlete’s Foot, medically known as Tinea Pedis, is a common fungal infection affecting the skin of the feet. It can present in two main forms, each caused by different fungal organisms and requiring distinct treatments.

Causes of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s Foot is caused by fungal organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments. The two primary organisms responsible for this condition are:

  1. T. Rubrum: This is the most common cause of Athlete’s Foot. It typically results in flaky, white, dry, and sometimes itchy patches on the skin.
  2. T. Mentagrophytes: This organism causes a more severe form of the condition, leading to fluid-filled blisters, intense itching, redness, and occasionally swelling.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

  • T. Rubrum Infection: Dry, scaly, and flaky skin, often between the toes. Mild itching may also occur.
  • T. Mentagrophytes Infection: Blisters, redness, and severe itching. Swelling may be present in more advanced cases.

Athlete’s Foot can lead to secondary bacterial infections, such as cellulitis, if left untreated. Diagnosis is often clinical but may include a skin scraping to confirm the fungal infection.

Treatment Options

Treatment for Athlete’s Foot depends on its severity and the organism causing it:

  • Over-the-Counter Medications: For mild cases caused by T. Rubrum, topical antifungal creams such as Lotrimin or Tinactin are effective.
  • Prescription Medications: More aggressive infections caused by T. Mentagrophytes often require prescription-strength topical antifungals. Severe cases may necessitate a short course of oral antifungal medications.
  • Preventing Secondary Infections: It is crucial to monitor symptoms closely to prevent secondary bacterial infections like cellulitis.

Prevention Tips

Preventing Athlete’s Foot starts with good hygiene and eliminating the conditions fungi thrive in:

  1. Keep Feet Dry: Always dry your feet thoroughly after bathing, paying close attention to the spaces between your toes.
  2. Wear Breathable Socks: Opt for white socks, as they help reduce sweating compared to darker ones.
  3. Change Socks Frequently: If your feet sweat throughout the day, change into a fresh pair of socks.
  4. Use Foot Powders: Applying antifungal foot powders can help absorb excess moisture.
  5. Disinfect Shoes: Spray the insides of your shoes with Lysol or similar disinfectants to kill fungal spores.

How Innovative Foot & Ankle Can Help

At Innovative Foot & Ankle, we specialize in treating Athlete’s Foot and other fungal infections. Our expert care ensures effective treatment tailored to your specific condition. If your symptoms worsen or persist, schedule an appointment with us to prevent complications.

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