Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common skin condition that affects many people at least once throughout their life. Though more common among teenage and young adult men, women and children may also experience this skin condition at least once in their life. Because this is a fairly common skin condition, it is one that is easily treated. Athlete’s foot can be a recurring skin condition, as it may recur in more susceptible individuals.

 

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is caused by a fungal infection. This fungal infection grows and multiplies on human skin, and is especially common on the feet. Tinea pedis, like many fungi, grow best in dark, moist, and warm areas, making shoes the perfect environment for growth on the foot.

Athlete’s Foot Symptoms & Treatment Options

 

While there are several types of athlete’s foot, many of the symptoms of this skin condition are similar. Symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

 

  • Scaly, itchy red rash that forms between the toes
  • Dryness and scaling on the soles of the feet or sides of the foot
  • Small, red blisters or bumps on the soles of the feet
  • Red ulcers or sores that leak fluid and produce a pungent odor

 

Athlete’s foot is contagious and could spread to other parts of the body or other people, so anyone suspecting this infection should be cautious around other people to prevent the spread of the infection.

 

Our board-certified dermatologists at Brentwood Dermatology provide personalized treatment options for athlete’s foot. Our treatment options include topical and oral treatments to cure the infection and help to reduce the chances of a recurrence. We also provide steps that individual patients can take to reduce the chances of re-infection, such as wearing flip-flops in a public shower and avoiding contact with anyone experiencing symptoms of the condition.

Athlete’s Foot FAQs

What does Athlete’s foot look like?

Most athlete’s foot cases present with an itchy, scaly red rash that can spread from between the toes to the soles and sides of the feet.

  • Extreme case of Athlete's foot with an infection
  • Scaly, red skin caused by Athlete's foot
  • Athlete's Foot growing between the toes
  • Scaly skin caused by Athlete's foot
  • Foot infected by fungus that causes Athlete's foot

What causes Athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is caused by a small fungus that grows between the toes and on the soles of the feet. This same fungus may also cause other types of fungal infection on the skin, including jock itch.

Is Athlete’s foot contagious?

Yes, athlete’s foot is highly contagious. If you suspect you or someone you know may have athlete’s foot, it’s important not to scratch the area and touch other parts of your body, as this could cause an additional infection. 

Are there various types of Athlete’s foot?

Yes, there are several types of athlete’s foot: Toe Web Infection, Moccasin Infection, Vesicular Infection, and Ulcerative Infection. Following an initial diagnosis, your dermatologist may use one of these terms as part of your diagnosis and will explain what these terms mean and treatment options available.

How is Athlete’s foot diagnosed?

Athlete’s foot is diagnosed in our Brentwood office. Our board-certified dermatologists will thoroughly examine the afflicted area and may scrape some of the skin for further analysis. We place these scrapings under a microscope in our lab to determine if there are any small fungi. We may also use a test tube to investigate any fungal growth.

What are the treatment options for Athlete’s foot?

Following an initial diagnosis, our board-certified dermatologists will want to begin treatment immediately. Depending on the severity of your case, we may recommend either topical or oral treatment options, together or separate from each other.

If you develop a toenail infection following an infection of athlete’s foot, this may present a longer treatment process that could take several months to treat fully.

When receiving any type of treatment for athlete’s foot, it’s important to complete the entire treatment dosage, whether using the topical ointments for the prescribed time or taking all of any oral medications. Your dermatologist will give you complete treatment instructions at the time of prescription.

How can I prevent Athlete’s foot?

There are many ways you can prevent an athlete’s foot infection, whether you’ve suffered from it previously or not. Follow these simple guidelines:

  1. Wash your feet regularly, preferably daily when you shower, and clean between your toes.
  2. Thoroughly dry your feet after bathing or showering, making sure to dry between your toes.
  3. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks, especially during the summer months.
  4. If you enjoy running outdoors during the warmer months, wear cotton or synthetic socks that can absorb sweat. Change your socks daily, or as they become damp.
  5. Find a reliable antifungal powder to use on your feet and in your shoes. Your dermatologist can provide recommendations during your initial consultation.

Schedule an Appointment at Brentwood Dermatology for Athlete’s Foot Treatment

If you’re experiencing symptoms of athlete’s foot, you need dermatological treatment to cure the infection effectively. Our board-certified dermatologists at Brentwood Dermatology are here to help patients in the Brentwood, Franklin, and Nashville areas treat and overcome the symptoms of athlete’s foot. 

 

Schedule an appointment at our Brentwood dermatology office and let our board-certified dermatologists create a personalized treatment plan and prevent the spread of your athlete’s foot infection.