Athlete’s foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin of the feet. The symptoms range from redness and itchiness on the soles of the feet to peeling and scaling in between the third, fourth or fifth toes of the foot.
If you have athletes foot strict attention to good foot hygiene is important to cure it.
- Wash feet daily in lukewarm water with a mild, non deodorant soap.
- Rinse feet well and dry carefully with a soft towel especially between the toes.
- Do not soak your feet longer than 10 minutes.
- Do not go barefoot in places where you could catch athlete's foot again or spread it to the other people.
- Change your shoes and socks daily.
- Wear socks made of natural materials like cotton or wool.
- Wear shoes that provide good ventilation.
- Do not share personal items such as towels.
Medication for athlete's foot is available from pharmacy shop as a OTC medication in the form of creams, gels, lotions, ointments, powders and sprays.
These products can be applied twice daily for at least two weeks.
Consult you doctor, podiatrist or chiropodist if
- You do not see any improvement in your symptoms within two weeks.
- Your symptoms are not completely gone in six weeks.
If you are using non prescription (Over The Counter) medication and is not curing your doctor may prescribe prescription medication. Use the whole course as directed by your doctor.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 03, 2011