 Athlete's
foot is caused by a fungus much like jock itch. The fungus
is called Tinea pedis, and is related to the jock itch
fungus. You don't have to be an athlete to get athlete's foot,
anyone who has sweaty or damp feet can get it. The fungus
survives in warm, moist areas, and feet are the perfect place
for it to thrive. It often likes to grow between the toes
and causes a rash there. The rash makes your feet itch, burn
and peel. For some reason, some people never get athlete's
foot, even when the conditions are perfect for it.
You
can help prevent these fungi from moving in by drying your
feet thoroughly after showering, bathing, or swimming. Take
a few extra seconds to dry in between your toes. If you shower
in gym class, or at a community pool, it's a good idea to
wear flip-flops, since athlete's foot may be transmitted from
one person to another from shower floors.
Socks
made with polyester are not
ones to wear if you get athlete's foot. Those made from cotton
or wool will keep the fungus away more effectively. Try to wear
sneakers with small ventilation holes on them, this will allow
air to circulate around your feet and keep them drier. To win
the fight against athlete's foot, keep your feet as dry as possible.
There
are several over-the-counter treatments that you can buy at
a drugstore if you get this fungus. They are sold as sprays,
powders and creams.
Check out herbal remedies for treating athlete’s foot.
In some cases, your health care provider will need to prescribe
a stronger medication to kill the fungus, either a cream, a
spray, or a pill. For
more on feet and foot problems, see Feet!
|
