"Do I Have Athlete’s Foot? Signs, Treatment, and Prevention Tips"
Written by Dr. Caroline Vaughn
Introduction:
Athlete’s foot is a common and often uncomfortable fungal infection that affects many people. As a dermatologist at Village Dermatology, I often see patients in our Katy office who are dealing with persistent itching, peeling, or painful cracks in the skin on their feet. Many wonder if their symptoms are caused by athlete’s foot and, if so, what can be done about it. In this article, I’ll explain how to recognize athlete’s foot, the best treatment options, and tips for keeping it from coming back.
Is My Foot Condition Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is caused by a fungus that grows on the skin, especially in warm, damp places. It’s easy to pick up this fungus by walking barefoot in places like locker rooms, public showers, or around swimming pools. Anyone can get athlete’s foot, but it’s more common in teens and adults who wear tight, closed-toe shoes for long periods. If you have a condition like diabetes, you may also be at a higher risk.
What Does Athlete’s Foot Look and Feel Like?
Athlete’s foot can appear in a few different ways on the skin of the foot. Here are some common forms and what to look for:
Between the Toes (Interdigital Type): This type is the most common and appears between the toes, usually as red, itchy, peeling skin. Sometimes, you might notice small cracks or cuts, which can be painful.
Across the Soles (Like a Moccasin): This form creates thick, scaly patches across the bottom and sides of the feet, giving it a “moccasin” or slipper-like appearance. The skin may feel rough, and you might notice redness underneath the scales.
Blisters on the Foot : Some people develop itchy, painful blisters on the sole or side of the foot. These blisters can burst and may lead to a secondary bacterial infection if not treated promptly.
Other skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, can look similar to athlete’s foot, so it’s best to get a professional diagnosis. At Village Dermatology in Katy, we use a quick, painless test called a KOH preparation to check for fungal cells, ensuring that we start you on the right treatment.
Should I See a Doctor for My Foot Skin Issue?
If you’ve been trying over-the-counter treatments and your symptoms aren’t going away, or if you’re experiencing painful cracks, blisters, or peeling, it’s a good idea to visit a dermatologist. Athlete’s foot can spread to other parts of the body, like the hands or groin, and can also lead to bacterial infections if not properly managed.
At Village Dermatology, we typically treat athlete’s foot with topical antifungal creams or ointments that you apply directly to the affected area. For stubborn or recurrent cases, we may recommend oral antifungal medications for a more complete treatment.
How to Prevent Athlete’s Foot
Because athlete’s foot is so contagious, taking steps to protect your feet can help you avoid getting it or keep it from returning. Here are some tips I recommend:
Keep Feet Dry: Drying your feet thoroughly after washing, especially between the toes, can reduce moisture where fungi thrive.
Wear Breathable Shoes: Choose shoes made from materials that allow airflow, and try not to wear the same pair every day. In communal areas, like showers or locker rooms, wearing sandals can help protect your feet.
Use Antifungal Powder: Foot powders or sprays can help keep your feet dry throughout the day.
Change Socks Daily: Wear clean, dry socks each day, and change them if they become sweaty.
These simple steps can go a long way in preventing athlete’s foot. If you have frequent flare-ups, talk to us at Village Dermatology about a prevention plan tailored for you.
Final Thoughts
Athlete’s foot is a common condition, but you don’t have to live with the discomfort. If you’re struggling with itchy, peeling, or painful skin on your feet, let our board-certified dermatologists at Village Dermatology help. Our Katy office is ready to provide expert care, from diagnosing your condition to offering effective treatment options.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our main page or check out our Katy location page. We’re here to help you keep your feet healthy and comfortable.