Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a very common, very contagious condition that causes serious discomfort, burning and itching sensations in the foot area. Most often, the condition tends to be highly localized in the area between the toes. Many people think that you can wash or just wait and Athlete’s foot will ‘go away’. Unfortunately, that is not the case, and left untreated it will only continue to get worse.

Here at Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois, we are experts when it comes to diagnosing and rapidly providing treatment for foot-related conditions and ailments. We take pride in the fact that we only offer evidence-based medicine to our patients. If you visit our beautifully modern office we have done our best to make the entire process comfortable.

What Are The Symptoms of Athletes’ Foot?

Some patients with severe athlete’s foot experience pain, while others with more moderate conditions are completely unaware of their condition.

The most common symptoms for athlete’s foot are dry, peeling skin in between the toes and occasionally spreading to the bottom of the foot. Others symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

• Rash between toes or on top, bottom, or sides of feet
• Itching or burning
• Bleeding or blistering
• Infection of hands
• Infection of toenails

What Are The Causes Of Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a form of fungus that can develop in a variety of ways. There are many causes of athlete’s foot, and since it is such a highly contagious infection, oftentimes it spreads from person to person through:

• Sharing shoes, socks, sandals
• Public places including pools, fitness clubs, bathrooms
• Direct or indirect contact with another individual with athlete’s foot
• Exposing feet to warm, wet environments ideal for promoting fungal growth

What Are The Possible Treatment & Prevention Options For Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is highly contagious, not only to others but also in regards to spreading to other parts of your own body. If you undergo treatment, it’s crucial that all of the affected areas are treated simultaneously. Partial treatment of athlete’s foot is less effective as the condition can easily spread and return.

• Wear dry, cotton socks to keep feet from being exposed to fungus producing environments and also use powders to limit moisture.
• Fungal infections: many can be treated with over the counter, antifungal medication including creams and washes
• Extreme cases: Oral pills may be needed to supplement the treatment process

Find Relief For Athlete’s Foot Today At Our Algonquin, IL, Location

When dealing with athlete’s foot, the sooner you act and undertake treatment, the better. The longer you wait, the condition will only continue to worsen and potentially spread. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and if you are concerned you may have Athlete’s foot, book a consultation with Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois today!