Athlete's foot is a major annoyance, and despite the name, this condition affects folks who aren’t athletes as well. That said, athletes can be a bit more prone to this condition. If you or a loved one is experiencing athlete’s foot and you live in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, contact Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and Dr. Shruti Vyas at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists to discuss treatment options.
Those suffering from this fungal infection are not alone. The Cleveland Clinic notes that between 3 to 15 percent of people at any given time are suffering from athlete’s foot. Roughly 70 percent of folks will experience this condition at some point. For now, let’s take a look at what athlete’s foot is and some of the option treatment methods used.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection. Most often, it starts between the toes but it can spread from there, causing irritation throughout the whole foot and beyond. Athlete’s foot causes a painful, itchy rash, which can cause not only discomfort but can also make it more difficult to walk.
This condition is most common among people who spend a lot of time on their feet and who wear tight, enclosed shoes. It’s especially common among athletes because they often work up a lot of sweat and their feet are stuck in shoes for extended periods of time.
That said, athlete’s foot can cause problems for pretty much anyone. Some conditions also raise risks. If you’re overweight, suffer from diabetes, have a weakened immune system, or have suffered a foot injury, among other things, you may be more prone to athlete’s foot.
Athlete’s foot is contagious and can spread from person to person, say in a locker room. Want to learn more about athlete's foot and live near Williamsburg, VA? Stop by Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists.
Treating Athlete’s Foot Effectively
Athlete’s foot rarely goes away on its own and can quickly spread to the hands and groin, among other places. For this reason, it’s wise to seek treatment quickly. This way, you can get the condition under control and stop it from spreading both throughout your body and to other people.
You may first try Over-The-Counter (OTC) anti-fungal creams. Sometimes these creams are enough to bring the fungal infection under control. This is especially true if you catch the condition early, before it spreads. Keeping your feet cool, dry, and clean will also help.
Often, however, OTC medications aren’t strong enough to bring athlete’s foot under control. This is especially true if the condition is spreading. Prescription ointments and pills can be prescribed and often prove much more effective at eliminating the infection.
You should also avoid wearing enclosed shoes for long periods of time. Using disinfectant sprays and letting your shoes wear out between uses may also help.
Need help treating athlete's foot and live in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA? Contact Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and Dr. Shruti Vyas at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment today at (757) 224-7605 for the office in Hampton, VA, and (757) 220-3311 for the office in Williamsburg, VA.