Four Tips to Prevent Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is an irritating and uncomfortable infection. Constant itchiness between your toes and dryness on the sides of your feet are a few symptoms associated with the condition. The most common causes include direct contact with an infected person or touching a contaminated surface. The fungus then grows on the skin of the foot, usually starting between the toes.
Because it is a common fungal infection and can spread from person to person, it’s important to know how to prevent it. PIH Health Podiatrist Ken P. Nguyen DPM, shares four tips on how to avoid athlete’s foot:
- Keep your feet dry. The fungus thrives in warm, wet environments like the inside of sweaty shoes. Alternate your shoes daily or make sure they dry before you put them on again. Use socks that are made of breathable material or wick away moisture. Consider using shoes that provide enough ventilation and do not constrict your feet.
- Wash your feet daily. Use soap and water and make sure to dry thoroughly, especially in between your toes. Do not share your towels.
- Wear shower shoes or flip flops. Walking barefoot around public pools, showers, locker rooms and carpets can help spread the fungus, so wear sandals to prevent your bare feet from coming into contact.
- Don’t forget about foot powder. Applying a small amount of antifungal powder on your feet and in your shoes will help prevent perspiration.
Athlete’s foot can usually be treated with over-the-counter topical medication; however, call your doctor if you are diabetic and your rash does not disappear or if you think your toenails have become infected. PIH Health offers a broad range of podiatry services, call 562.789.5464 for more information.
