Athlete's foot
/æθlits/ /fʊt/
1. [noun] athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight fitting shoes. Athlete's foot usually causes a scaly red rash. The rash typically begins in between the toes. Itching is often the worst right after you take off your shoes and socks. Some types of athlete's foot feature blisters or ulcers. The moccasin variety of athlete's foot causes chronic dryness and scaling on the soles that extends up the side of the foot. It can be mistaken for eczema or even as dry skin. Your nails. The fungi associated with athlete's foot can also infect your toenails, a location that tends to be more resistant to treatment. Prevention: - Keep your feet dry, especially between your toes . Go barefoot to let your feet air out as much as possible when you're home. Dry between your toes after a bath or shower. - Change socks regularly. If your feet get very sweaty, change your socks twice a day. - Wear light, well-ventilated shoes. Avoid shoes made of synthetic material, such as vinyl or rubber. - Alternate pairs of shoes. Don't wear the same pair every day so that you give your shoes time to dry after each use. - Protect your feet in public places. Wear waterproof sandals or shoes around public pools, showers and lockers rooms. - Treat your feet. Use powder, preferably antifungal, on your feet daily. - Don't share shoes. Sharing risks spreading a fungal infection
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
Frequently Asked Questions
How can one tell the difference between athlete's foot and other dry skin conditions on the foot?
Athlete's foot usually presents as a scaly, red rash largely between the toes, often accompanied by intense itching after removing shoes. Regular dry skin does not show these distinct patterns nor the localized itching in the same manner.
What does the term 'tinea pedis' reveal about the infection?
The term 'tinea pedis' comes from Latin, where 'pedis' means 'foot.' This etymology serves as a reminder that the fungal infection is primarily localized to the foot, particularly in the spaces between the toes.
Why is moisture between the toes often linked with athlete's foot?
Moist environments, such as sweaty feet in tight shoes, create ideal conditions for fungal growth. This everyday occurrence helps explain why the rash typically begins between the toes where moisture tends to accumulate.
How might the presentation of athlete's foot be mistakenly attributed to another foot condition?
The moccasin variety of athlete's foot can appear as chronic dryness and scaling, which can be confused with eczema or simple dry skin. Observing the specific areas and the pattern of the rash can help clarify the difference.