Fungus in Your Feet
Our feet are literally what support us, and it is imperative to take care of them. Unfortunately, feet are susceptible to a few uncomfortable fungus issues. Athlete's foot and nail fungus are two common foot-fungus problems. Knowing how to spot these problems, how to treat them and how to prevent them can help keep your feet fungus-free and standing strong for years to come. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a skin fungus found between the toes or on the soles of the feet. Toenail fungus, called onychomycosis, can be caused by more than one fungus, making it difficult to treat, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms
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The symptoms of athlete's foot include dry, cracked skin, itching, burning and stinging. MedicineNet reports that in more rare cases, it looks like large blisters, or it can just look like common dry skin. Mayo Clinic describes nail fungus as beginning as a white- or yellow-colored spot under the tip of the nail that begins to spread, causing discoloration and thickening of the nail. The nail also may begin to crumble, which can be painful. In some cases, the nail may separate from the foot. There may also be some foot odor.
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Causes
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Foot fungus thrives in moist, dark areas, and it has been linked to untreated cases of athlete's foot. Any damp socks that may create a humid condition in the shoe may encourage the fungus' growth. Athlete's foot can be spread by direct skin contact from an infected person or with objects that contain particles of the fungus, such as surfaces in showers and locker rooms.
Treatments
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Topical ointments and oral medications can treat athlete's foot. Many topical ointments are available over-the-counter. If these don't work, a doctor can prescribe oral medication. A doctor may also recommend vinegar soaks, ointments or compresses to help with blisters. Nail fungus is more difficult to treat. There are over-the-counter topical ointments, but Mayo Clinic reports that they are not as effective as oral anti-fungal medications that a doctor may prescribe. In severe nail-fungus cases, surgery may be an option.
Prevention
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The most effective prevention for both conditions is to keep feet dry and clean and to change socks regularly. Alternate your shoes and use anti-fungal powder on your feet daily. Avoid borrowing shoes or exposing bare feet in public places. If you need to use a communal shower, wear a pair of waterproof sandals or shoes to help protect the feet from any exposure to fungus.
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