Did you know that up to 25% of people struggle with athlete’s foot? Athlete’s foot is itchy and embarrassing. It can also be painful, so it is essential to know how to get rid of athlete’s foot before it becomes a bigger problem.
Even though older people and men are more likely to experience this infection, anyone can get it, even athletes. The great news is that you can take steps to treat this condition immediately.
Here is everything you need to know about how to get rid of athlete’s foot forever and home remedies you can try.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is officially called tinea pedis. This is a common ringworm infection that affects our feet. The fungi that cause athlete’s foot are known as dermatophytes. These exist in indoor and outdoor spaces since they love moist and warm environments.
Therefore, you can expect to contract athlete’s foot in locker rooms, showers, and public pools. A weak immune system and allergies can also cause athlete’s foot.
The minute your feet are contaminated, dermatophytes can grow in no time. If you want to know how to prevent athlete’s foot, the first step is to stay away from damp and sweaty socks because they are the perfect breeding ground.
Diagnosis
Severe itchiness is the most common sign of athlete’s foot. Other symptoms are peeling and cracked skin, blistered skin between the toes, redness in the soles of your feet, or cloudy yellow toenails.
Diagnosing this condition is straightforward, and your doctor should be able to confirm it right away by looking at your feet. For the most accurate diagnosis, check out Integrative Family Medicine here.
How to Get Rid of Athlete’s Foot
It is necessary to focus on curing athlete’s foot right away to avoid the infection from becoming more painful. You can start with home care if you cannot see a doctor immediately. Start by thoroughly washing your feet, and then wear clean and dry socks after showering.
If you do not have sweat-absorbing socks, you should ditch closed shoes and wear sandals. These will help your feet from coming in contact with any fungi that can prolong the condition.
You should also consider using an anti-fungal cream to treat the infection. This is the best treatment for athlete’s foot because the active ingredients are azoles or allylamines. These are effective and potent enough to cure severe infections.
However, you should always consult your doctor before taking any medications to determine the proper dosage. You can also take oral tablets at least once a day for up to six weeks until healed.
Cure Athlete’s Foot Today
Now that you know how to get rid of athlete’s foot, there is no time to waste. Remember that athlete’s foot is highly contagious. It can spread between people and body parts.
It can spread to your hands if left untreated, especially if you scratch and pick at your rash. Then, it can lead to jock itch when it reaches the groin area.
If you enjoyed reading this treatment guide, check out some of our other posts for more information.