Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the foot, and if it’s left untreated, it can spread to the surrounding areas.
Unless you have a dysfunctional immune system, athlete’s foot isn’t a serious medical issue. However, it can cause severe discomfort, and it’s highly contagious.
To prevent the spread of the bacteria responsible for the condition, you may have to stop going barefoot in public areas such as around swimming pools, stop sharing shoes and towels with others, and invest in breathable socks.
Our experts at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey see patients suffering from athlete’s foot on a regular basis at their office in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. We asked them to share the most common symptoms of athlete's foot.
Bacteria love moist, warm places. If you have athlete’s foot, you may feel stinging, burning, and itching between your toes or on your soles, where sweat can get trapped between your skin and the inside of your shoe.
You may also notice itchy blisters. If you develop blisters, our specialists may recommend antibiotics to prevent the bacteria from spreading to other parts of your body.
At first, you may see a red, dry rash that causes your skin to peel and crack as it spreads on your foot.
Peeling and cracking skin between your toes and on your soles could also indicate a fungal infection or a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis.
Athletes' foot may also cause blisters that ooze and raw skin between the toes. Our specialists may prescribe antifungal and anti-inflammatory agents to help your skin heal and prevent the spread of the fungal infection.
A fungal infection can damage your nails. You may notice nail discoloration, an increase in nail thickness, or nails pulling away from the nail bed.
Do you experience symptoms that resemble athlete's foot? Our experts at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey diagnose and treat a number of foot problems and can help you get quick relief for your symptoms.
Treatment for athlete's foot may include topical antifungal medications, topical steroid medications, or antibiotics.
Contact us to schedule an appointment and receive expert advice from one of our podiatrists. If you suffer from diabetes or any other condition that may impair your ability to fight infections, seek medical help as soon as possible.
