Symptoms of Athlete's Foot

• Red, scaly, cracked rash between the toes
• The rash itches and burns
• With itching, the rash becomes raw and weepy
• Can be on the insteps of the feet
• Smelly feet

Cause of Athlete's Foot

• A fungus infection that grows best on warm, damp skin

Other Health Problems from Athlete's Foot

• Jock Itch is a fungus infection of the groin and inner, upper thighs. Caused by the same fungus that causes athlete's foot. Can be spread by a towel used to dry the feet and then the groin.
• Impetigo is a bacterial infection that can start in the cracks between the toes. Causes sores, soft scabs and pus. Needs to be seen by a doctor. Easily spread to other people in the household.
• Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that spreads into the skin. Causes redness spreading into the back of the foot. The red area is painful to touch. Needs to be seen urgently by a doctor.
• Lymphangitis is a bacterial infection that spreads in the lymph system. It can look like a red streak that goes up the leg. It is more serious because the infection can get into the bloodstream. This is called sepsis. Needs to be seen urgently by a doctor.

When to Call for Athlete's Foot

Care Advice

What You Should Know About Athlete's Foot:

• Athlete's foot is common in adults and teens.
• It's caused by a fungus that grows best on warm, damp skin.
• Here is some care advice that should help.

Anti-Fungal Cream:

• Use an anti-fungal cream (such as Lotrimin AF), spray or powder. No prescription is needed.
• Use 2 times per day.
• Put it on the rash and 1 inch (25 mm) beyond its borders.
• Keep using the cream for at least 7 days after the rash is gone.

Keep the Feet Dry:

• Rinse the feet 2 times per day.
• Dry your feet after washing them. Be sure to dry between the toes. Blot them dry rather than rubbing them.
• Then apply the cream.
• Do not share towels, socks or shoes with other people.
• Go barefoot at home or wear sandals as much as you can.
• Do not wear shoes that make your feet hot and sweaty.
• Wear socks made of man-made fibers. They will keep the feet drier and cooler than cotton. Change them twice daily.

Do Not Scratch:

• Scratching infected feet will slow the healing. It can spread the fungus to other parts of the body.
• Rinse the itchy feet in cool water for relief.

Return to Work:

• Athlete's foot is not easily spread to others. The fungus can't grow on dry, normal skin.
• You do not need to miss any work. You can be active and play sports.
• Your socks can be washed with the normal laundry. They don't need to be boiled.

Jock Itch Prevention:

• Athlete's foot fungus can spread to the groin area. This is called jock itch.
• The fungus can be spread by a towel or washcloth.
• So, after bathing, dry the groin area before the feet.
• You can also use a different towel for the feet.
• Do this for at least 7 days after the athlete's foot looks like it is cured.

What to Expect:

• With proper treatment, athlete's foot goes away within 2 weeks.

Call Your Doctor If:

• It looks infected
• Rash is not getting better after 1 week of treatment
• Rash is not gone (clear skin) after 2 weeks on treatment
• You think you need to be seen
• Your symptoms get worse

Remember! Contact your doctor if you or your child develop any "Contact Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.




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