Information From Your Health Care Provider

ATHLETE'S FOOT

(Tinea Pedis; Ringworm of the Feet)

Basic information

description

Athlete's foot is a common, contagious fungal (tinea) infection of the skin on the feet. It often affects the soles and skin between toes (often the 4th and 5th toes). It usually affects teens and adults (rare in young children).

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Moist, soft, gray-white or red scales on feet, especially between toes.
Dead skin between toes.
Itching in inflamed areas.
Damp, musty foot odor.
Small blisters on the feet (sometimes).

causes

Infection by Trichophyton rubrum or other fungus. The germs can be spread by direct contact with an infected person, or by contact with the germs on shoes, socks, shower, or pool surfaces. Animals can also carry the germs and infect a human.

risk increases with

Infrequent changes of shoes or socks.
Use of locker rooms and public showers.
Persistent moisture around the feet (e.g., wearing airtight shoes).
Hot, humid weather.
People who have immune system problems due to illness or medications.
Diabetes.
People who are more susceptible to the infection.
Having other fungal infection (e.g., jock itch).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Bathe feet daily. Dry completely between the toes and apply drying or dusting powder.
Wear rubber or wooden sandals in public showers.
Go barefoot when possible.
Change socks daily and wear socks made of cotton, wool, or other natural, absorbent fibers. Avoid synthetics. Wear shoes that are not air-tight.
Consider using an antiperspirant on your feet every evening.

expected outcomes

Usually curable in 3 weeks with treatment, but recurrence is common. In some cases, the infection is more severe and will take longer to control.

possible complications

A bacterial infection may develop in the affected area.
A skin rash can sometimes develop on the hands and face (rare).

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

After soaking or bathing, carefully remove scales and material between the toes daily.
Use a hair dryer to blow warm air on the feet to make sure they are completely dry.
Keep affected areas cool and dry. Go barefoot or wear sandals during treatment. If socks are worn, keep them dry. If they get wet, change to dry ones.
See your health care provider if the symptoms are severe. Your health care provider can usually diagnose athlete's foot by looking at the affected skin area. Certain skin tests may be done to rule out other skin disorders.

medications

Use nonprescription antifungal powders, creams, or ointments (such as terbinafine). Follow instructions on the product.
For severe cases, you may be prescribed oral, or stronger topical antifungal drugs.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection develops.

activity

No limits. Avoid activities that cause feet to sweat until healing is complete.

diet

No special diet.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of athlete's foot that persist, despite self-treatment.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.