Are you thinking of consulting a podiatrist for Athlete’s Foot treatment in Montréal? But are you sure if you are really affected by Athlete’s Foot condition? If not, we are here to explain everything related to this fungal disease. So, continue reading to know what is Athlete’s Foot, what are the causes, symptoms, complications, prevention, and treatment associated with this foot disease.
Athlete’s Foot: Overview
Also called “tinea pedis”, Athlete’s Foot is a contagious fungal skin infection that usually occurs between the toes. It is commonly experienced by people whose feet become excessively sweaty, especially due to tight-fitting shoes. It’s important to note that this foot condition is infectious and can be spread through contaminated floors, towels, or clothing.
This fungal infection is called Athlete’s Foot because usually athletes suffer from it. Although it is not a serious medical condition, still sometimes it might be hard to cure. Also, it can eventually spread to the toenails and the hands if not taken care of at the initial stages.
So, if you ever suffer from Athlete’s Foot, Diabetic Foot Ulcer, or Nail Fungus, consider getting your foot diagnosed at the early stage itself. You will find various multispecialty podiatry centers for Athlete’s Foot or Nail Fungus treatment in Canada. Just ensure to consult a trusted, reputed, and experienced podiatrist for the same.
Causes Of Athlete’s Foot
Athletes’ foot is caused due to the growth of fungi (dermatophytes) on the feet. This mainly happens when one:
- Wears damp socks & shoes
- Gets in contact with an already infected person
- Touches surfaces contaminated with the fungus
- Wears tight-fitting shoes in warm & humid conditions
- Walks barefoot
- Have impaired immune systems or diabetes
- Get an open cut or sore on their feet
- Shares socks, shoes, or towels with an infected person
- Have excessively sweaty feet
- Get a minor skin or nail injury on the foot
Symptoms Of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s Foot can affect both men and women of all ages. It can infect one or two feet as well as spread to other parts of the body due to scratching or picking up the infected parts of the foot. Below are the symptoms commonly found in people infected by this fungal disease. Have a closer look at them before consulting a podiatrist for Athlete’s Foot treatment in Montréal.
- Itching and stinging
- Inflammation between the toes or on the soles of the feet
- Blisters on the skin of the feet.
- Cracking or peeling of skin from the feet
- Dry and flaky skin on the soles and sides of the feet
- Discolored and thick toenails
- Toenails pulling away from the toebed
- Inflamed skin on the feet
- Skin appearing red or grayish on the feet, based on the skin color
These are some of the common symptoms found in people affected by Athlete’s Foot. Now that you know the causes and symptoms of this contagious fungal infection, let’s delve into the precautions to be taken to avoid the spread of it to others.
Preventive Tips
Following the below-listed tips can let you avoid the spread of this contagious infection.
- Make a habit to wash your feet daily.
- Change your socks regularly.
- Allow your feet to air out.
- Try wearing different shoes every alternate day.
- Ensure to protect your feet from public places.
- Be informed of the causes responsible for spreading the disease.
Diagnosis of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s Foot can be diagnosed in two ways. The doctor may recommend treatment methods only based on symptoms or may prescribe a skin test if the symptoms are not clear. So, if you are thinking of consulting a doctor for Athlete’s Foot or Nail Fungus treatment in Canada, be prepared to undergo skin tests.
The most common lab test for this fungal disease is a skin lesion potassium hydroxide exam. During this test, the doctor scrapes off a small area of infected skin and puts it in potassium hydroxide. As a result, the normal cells are destroyed, leaving behind the fungal cells untouched. The doctor then places the fungal cells under a microscope and determines if the person is affected by Athlete’s Foot.
Treatment For Athlete’s Foot
You should be well informed of the treatment procedures before consulting a doctor for Athlete’s Foot treatment in Montréal. Doctors commonly recommend over-the-counter (OTC) topical antifungal medications as a cure for this fungal disease. However, if topical medications fail to deliver desired results, the doctor may prescribe oral prescription-strength antifungal medications. And lastly, if the infection is very mild, the doctor may recommend some simple home care treatment procedures.
Bottom Line
Now that you have read the entire blog, you know what is Athlete’s Foot, what are its causes, its symptoms, treatment methods, and even ways to prevent the further spread of the infection to others. However, always ensure to consult a reputed and experienced doctor for Athlete’s Foot treatment in Montréal if you are already suffering or ever suffer from this fungal infection.
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