Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s foot)

Initial symptoms include intense itching follows by rash, burning sensation, and even blisters. On mild cases, often it can be mistaken as dry skin or Eczema.

Tinea pedis or also commonly known as Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that typically starts in between toes and then spreads to other areas around the foot.

You would be at higher risk of getting Tinea Pedis if you have underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes / if you have poor peripheral circulation) or if you are on prolonged use of immune suppressive medications such as corticosteroids. Other risk factors include frequent wearing of occlusive (fully enclosed) footwear for long periods of time, or simply if you tend to walk barefoot in public areas (e.g. swimming pools, public baths, clothes change rooms, lockers, saunas, etc) where the surface are potentially contaminated.

 

Some clinical features are:

    • Itchy erosions or scales between the toes
    • Scale covering the sole or side of the feet
    • Small to medium size blisters, usually affecting inner aspect of the foot

Please note, the infection may affect only localized area between the toes, or it can spread to both feet and even to your hand. Hence, it is important that you do not scratch or pick at the affected areas to reduce risk of spreading it further.

Treatment ranges from over the counter topical antifungal therapy to prescription-based medications for those who don’t respond to topical treatments and suffer from re-infections.

As with any diseases, prevention is always best. A few tips below for general hand and foot hygiene which works for both prevention as well as maintenance to keep Athlete’s foot at bay

    • Clip your nails
    • General skin care – moisturize to prevent skin cracking
    • Get properly fitted shoes
    • Keep your feet dry especially after shower
    • Do not walk barefoot especially in public areas
    • Wear cotton or natural fibre socks and change them daily or when your feet get sweaty
    • Avoid wearing occlusive footwear for long periods and aerate your shoes
    • Do not share footwear or linens (e.g. towels, socks) and launder them often
    • Clean the shower and bathroom with disinfectants such as a product containing bleach
    • Use antifungal spray between the shoes, let them dry for 24 hours
Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s foot)2
Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s foot)

For more information or if you need further advise, please give us a call to book an assessment on 03 8682 8589 so we can help you put your best foot forward.