Being a Hollywood actress certainly does not excuse you from the embarrassment caused by Athlete’s foot. According to the friends of Hollywood celebrity Lindsay Lohan this may be what happened. Athletes’ foot is really itchy, smelly, and embarrassing.
Athlete’s foot is a type of skin inflammation found on the foot that is contagious and can easily spread to the toenails and hands. It is a fungal eruption in the foot that is common in both athletes and non-athletes alike. Athlete’s foot is considered as a non-serious disease but is difficult to cure most especially if the person is suffering from diabetes or has a weak immune system.
What are the causes of athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is caused by the same kind of fungus that causes ringworm and jock itch. This kind of organisms usually grow in a warm, damp, and humid environment like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Direct contact with an infected person or merely touching a contaminated surface will make you catch a fungus. Dr. Howard Schultheiss is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with athlete’s foot and other types of foot conditions.
What are the signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot?
The following are the signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot that you might experience:
- Discolored, crumbly and thick toenails
- Raw skin on feet
- The soles and the toes of the feet are chronic dry
- Blisters and ulcers on the foot that itch
- Itching, stinging and burning of the toes
- Scaly, red rash between the toes and on the soles of the feet
Athlete’s foot can both affect your feet and can spread if you scratch the infected parts.
What are the treatments for athlete’s foot?
Using over the counter medicines can help in treating athlete’s foot. If using these medications failed, your doctor will prescribe a topical antifungal medication that will clear up the infection.
Having athlete’s foot doesn’t mean that you have to stay away from school or work. Just cover your feet completely until the rash disappears and avoid scratching the affected skin to keep the infection from spreading.
Tips on how to prevent athlete’s foot
- Wear shoes that are made of breathable materials
- Change your socks right away when your feet get sweaty
- Always wear sandals in public places
- Don’t forget to apply an anti-fungal powder on your toes every day
- Alternate wearing two shoes
- Go barefoot and let your feet breathe when you are at home
At Harford Lower Extremities Specialists located in Bel Air, MD, we specialize in helping people suffering from athlete’s foot. To schedule an appointment call (410) 836-0131.
