Preventing and Treating Athlete's Foot

What your podiatrist in Fairfax, VA wants you to know:

You don’t have to be an athlete to get an athlete’s foot. Anyone can acquire the fungus that causes this condition. The fungus thrives in warm, moist public pools, locker rooms, and showers. You can also spread the fungus to others or catch it from someone else.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent athlete’s foot. Dr. My Hoa Kaas and Dr. Jay Ryan at Virginia Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax, VA, want to share how to prevent and treat athlete’s foot.

The first symptom you may notice if you have an athlete’s foot is uncontrollable itching, especially after removing your shoes and removing your socks. You may also notice:

• A red, scaly rash on your feet
• An itchy rash between your toes
• Blisters or ulcers forming on the skin of your feet

Since athlete’s foot is often acquired in public pools, showers, or locker rooms, it’s important to wear flip-flops or sandals in public areas to avoid contact with the fungus. Other preventive measures you can take include:

• Wearing dry socks and changing socks frequently
• Wearing shoes that can breathe and aren’t too tight
• Not sharing towels, sheets, mats, socks, or shoes with other people

If you notice itching, a rash, or other symptoms of an athlete’s foot, you should wash your feet with antibacterial soap at least once daily. You should also keep your feet dry by changing your socks and applying an over-the-counter anti-fungal cream.

Also, remember not to pick at the rash or scratch it because the fungus can get underneath your fingernails, infecting the nail bed and your hands. Wash all bedding and towels in hot water after each use to avoid reacquiring the fungus.

Dr. Kaas and Dr. Ryan can help with an athlete’s foot that doesn’t respond to home therapy. Common professional treatments for athlete’s foot include:

• Prescription oral antifungal medication
• Prescription topical antifungal cream or lotion

You and your feet don’t have to suffer from itchy, annoying athlete’s foot. You can help your feet by calling Virginia Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax, VA at (703) 205-0770. Call today and heal your feet.