Thursday 26 December 2013

Remedial measures to prevent occurrence of athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is a kind of fungal infection which affects skin of the feet. Tinea Pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a particular foot condition which is not only restricted to sportspersons but can affect anyone, irrespective of age. In fact, an interesting study says that around 70% of population might suffer from athlete's foot at some point in their lives. There are few simple measures following which it is possible to avoid this specific foot syndrome. However, before talking about remedies and preventions, it is important to know specific reasons and symptoms related to athlete’s foot.

Take a close look at your feet to notice these signs:-

Does the skin feels extremely dry, appears reddish and there is a constant irksome feeling like itching or burning sensation in your feet? If these symptoms are more apparent between toes then there is enough reason to worry. The sole of your feet or skin between toes being soft and sensitive, infection starts from these portions only. Sometimes the affected area appears wet and white on the surface. If the infected portion is not taken care of, then you might notice blisters, peeling or cracking of the skin. In worst cases, the infected portion starts bleeding.

Athlete’s foot infection spreads very fast from contaminated surface or object. The source can be your room floor on which you walk daily or clothes that you wear often. Though athlete’s foot can happen to anyone but elders or individuals with poor immunity system are most likely to catch the infection faster. Diabetic patients are at greater risk too.

Measures that can be adopted to prevent athlete’s foot:-

When it comes to washing, foot is one portion which often remains neglected. While most are very particular about washing hair or face daily, the same can’t be said about their feet! It is important to note that regular washing of your feet with mild soap and water followed by thorough drying is the best way to say “No” to athlete’s foot. Before trying out someone else’s shoes and slippers give it a thought. These might be carriers of the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.

Choose your shoes carefully. Opt for materials that allow your feet to “breathe”, like leather or canvas. Avoid ill fitting or too tight shoes which restrict air circulation. If your feet tend to catch moisture easily then cotton socks is a preferred option. Walking barefoot, especially on damp surfaces, should be strictly avoided. Applying antifungal powder also helps in keeping the foot free of moisture. Change your shoes from time to time.

How to treat athlete’s foot:-

If the infection strikes in spite of following precautionary measures then a proper treatment is highly advisable. You may need to take some antibiotics to get rid of the fungal infection. Application of antibiotic cream also helps in cleaning the affected area. Rather than popping up antibiotics on your own, do get in touch with an expert podiatrist. Further it is recommended to continue the treatment for some time, even if the infection appears to have healed.   

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