Please select from the list of medical conditions from the below drop-down list:

• Acne
• Actinic Keratosis
• Albinism
• Alopecia (Baldness)
• Athletes Foot
• Atopic Dermatitis
• Birthmarks
• Cheilitis
• Cold Sores
• Eczema
• Hair Loss
• Hemangioma
• Herpes
• Hyperhidrosis
• Melanoma
• Melasma
• Onychomykosis (Nail Fungus)
• Port Wine Stain
• Psoriasis
• Seborrhea
• Seborrheic Keratosis
• Skin Cancer
• Skin Checks
• Skin Tags
• Vitiligo
• Warts

Athlete’s Foot

• Athlete's foot causes foot itching, burning, pain, and scaling.
• Athlete's foot is caused by a fungus, and is treated with antifungal medications.
• Keeping the feet dry by using cotton socks and breathable shoes can help prevent athlete's foot.

Athlete's foot is a skin infection caused by the ringworm fungus ("tinea" in medical jargon), a fungus which thrives and infects the upper layer of the skin when the feet (or other areas of the body) remain moist, warm, and irritated. The fungus can be found on floors and in socks and clothing and can be spread from person to person by contact with these objects. Up to 70% of the population will have athletes foot at some time during their lives.

What are the symptoms of Athlete's foot?

The symptoms of Athlete''s foot include itching and burning feet. The skin frequently peels and, in particularly severe cases, there may be some cracking, pain and bleeding.

When the skin is injured by the fungus, bacteria can also invade the skin. These bacteria can cause a bad smell. Bacterial infection of the skin and the resulting inflammation is known as cellulitis, which is especially likely to occur in the elderly, individuals with diabetes, chronic leg swelling, or who have had veins removed (such as for heart bypass surgery), and patients with impaired immune systems.

How can Athlete's Foot be treated?

The treatment of Athlete's foot can be divided into two parts. The first, and most important part, is to make the infected area less suitable for the Athlete's foot fungus to grow. This means keeping the area clean and dry. Likewise, absorbent socks that wick water away from your feet (such as cotton socks) will help. Powders, especially medicated powders, can help keep your feet dry.

The second part of treatment is the use of antifungal creams, with treatment continuing for up to four weeks.

When should I seek medical care?

If you notice any redness, increased swelling, bleeding, or if your infection is not clearing up, see your healthcare practitioner. If a bacterial infection is also occurring, an antibiotic may be necessary.