What you need to know about athlete’s foot
January 23, 2009
Athlete’s foot is a common foot disease that infects the skin. It is fungal in nature and the fungus that causes it is called Trichophyton. Fungal infections occur due to accumulation of sweat, moisture or dampness. Fungal infections occur almost anywhere on the body with feet being no exception.
The main cause of athlete’s foot is the ringworm fungus or tinea, which is why it is also called tinea pedis. The fungus is present almost everywhere and locations like swimming pools, gyms, locker rooms, nail salons, socks and footwear is where the fungus thrives. In such places fungal infections can spread readily.
The three types of athlete’s foot infection are moccasin, interdigital and inflammatory. While moccasin infects the soles of the feet, interdigital and inflammatory infect the areas between the toes and form blisters.
The blisters that are caused by the fungus are unusually large and are called bullous tinea pedis. The skin of the feet becomes thick and dry with soreness and redness. The infection can get quite severe if it is not given proper medical attention. The best way to avoid fungal infections is to maintain good hygiene through changing socks daily, washing the feet properly and patting them dry.