Podiatrist treatment for athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot, also known as Tinea Pedis, is a contagious fungal infection. It usually presents as scaling, peeling, or small white  blisters on the skin, especially between the toes and on the underside of the foot.

Although often mild, athlete’s foot can lead to several problems if left untreated.

It can spread to the toenails (Onychomycosis), leading to thickened, yellow, brittle nails.

The cracked or macerated skin can allow bacteria to enter, which can cause a secondary bacterial infection. Occasionally this can lead to cellulitis, especially in people with diabetes or compromised immunity.

Athlete’s foot can also spread to other skin areas, like the hands and groin. And it’s contagious, so it can spread to other people through contact with infected surfaces.

The fungi that causes athlete’s foot thrive in humid environments. They feed on dead skin in your footwear — or in your socks if they’re not washed at a hot enough temperature, or changed regularly.

You might get athlete’s foot if your feet are warm, sweaty or damp for long periods. For example, if you’re spending a lot of time in wellies or work boots.

You can also catch athlete’s foot from another infected person. This can happen if you’re walking around in communal, damp environments such as gym showers and changing rooms. Even sharing a towel or bathmat with an infected person can lead to infection.

The damage athlete foot causes to your skin and nails can also create portals for infection.

• Scaling, peeling, or small white  blisters on the skin
• An insatiable itch or burning sensation, which is often worse at night
• Excessive dry, thickened and flaking skin, which builds up on your socks
• Cracked skin between the toes which may be painful.