Athletes Foot / Tinea Pedis

What is a fungal skin infection?

Fungal infections commonly affect the nails and skin. Fungal skin infections (also referred to as Athlete’s Foot or Tinea Pedis) are usually treated with an anti-fungal ointment and often resolve over time if applied frequently. A fungal skin infection is caused by a build-up of a dermatophyte fungus (microorganisms) that invades your skin. Tinea Pedis can affect one or both of your feet and they have various patterns.

What are the various patterns of a fungal infection?

  •  It can be patchy fine and dry on the bottom of your foot (Chronic hyperkeratotic)
  • It can occur on the entire sole of the foot with lots of dead skin and callus
  • It can occur between your toes (most often between the fourth and fifth digits) and is often moist, peeling and irritable 
  • It can occur on the sides or insteps of the feet with clusters of blisters
  • It can occur on the top of the foot with round dry patches

What are the risk factors for developing a fungal skin infection?

  •  More common in adults than in children
  •  Using public change rooms
  • Using public showers, saunas or swimming pools
  • Walking around barefoot on communal floors
  • Sharing towels with others
  • Wearing shoes that do not breathe (known as occlusive footwear)
  •  Poor hygiene
  • Not drying off your feet properly after a shower
  •  Warm and moist footwear or warm humid conditions
  •  Excessive sweating
  • Weak immune system (e.g. HIV, Cancer or diabetes)

How do we treat fungal skin infections?

Skin infections are known to be difficult to treat especially some more than others. At Hills District Podiatry we will often diagnose and assess the foot accordingly, and then recommend the use of a topical treatment. There are many different types of treatments commercially available, making the decision for the consumer quite difficult. At Hills District Podiatry we will take the time to assess and find the best one to suit you.

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