Athlete’s foot is a type of fungal infection which affects the toes. It is also known as tinea pedis as the tinea fungus causes this infection. Athletes are more prone to this condition, thus the name. This fungal disease is contagious and can be transmitted from one person to another through contaminated floors, clothing, or towels. There are also reports of the infection spreading from the feet to the hands, if not taken care of properly.

Common symptoms include scaly red rashes on the feet, which start in between the toes and then spread to other parts of the legs. They often cause blisters, cracking and peeling of the skin and cause toenails to pull away from the nail bed. People wearing tight fitted shoes, walking barefoot in locker rooms, swimming pools, or showers, or individuals sharing towels, bed linen, shocks, and shoes are at a higher risk of getting infected.

Prevention of athlete’s foot
Though athlete’s foot it is not a life-threatening condition, at times, it can be worrisome as it is difficult to cure and is recurring. Patients often use over-the-counter antifungal medications to treat this infection. However, it is best to prevent this fungal disease altogether.

• Wash your feet with medicated soap and thoroughly dry them with a towel every day. Individuals should pay special attention to the areas between the toes as it is more prone to this condition. There are different types of over-the-counter antifungal powders available in local pharmacies which protects the legs from fungal infection and keeps them dry as well.
• Wash socks, towels, bed linens, and other personal clothing with hot water at a temperature of 140°F (60°C) or higher along with a good quality detergent. It is better to dry them in sunlight to make them germ- free. Keeping feet clean, applying OTC anti-fungal recommendations, and washing socks help to cure and prevent athlete’s foot. It is also a good idea to disinfect shoes with antimicrobial sprays.
• Individuals prone to athlete’s foot should never share shoes, socks, towels, and bed linens with friends.
• It is a good idea to wear socks made of breathable fibers, such as cotton or wool and change them whenever the feet feel sweaty. Choose light, well-ventilated shoes, and avoid synthetic ones, especially those made from vinyl or rubber. Keep two pairs of shoes handy, and wear them alternately so that they get a chance to air out. Never leave shoes in a gym bag when not in use, as the moisture and sweat promote fungal build-up.
• Avoid walking barefoot in public swimming pools, showers, or other public places, especially where there is a chance of coming in contact with wet floors. Wear light, water-proof sandals in these places. However, one can stay bare-foot in the house to air out the feet.

These were a few preventive measures for athlete’s foot.   One must always remember, although athlete’s foot is a contagious infection, it is possible to keep it at bay by following the above preventive measures and maintaining adequate personal hygiene.