Athlete’s Foot: Your Questions Answered - Suffolk Foot and Ankle

Athlete’s Foot: Your Questions Answered

Athlete’s Foot: Your Questions Answered

WHAT IS ATHLETE’S FOOT?
Athlete’s foot is an extremely contagious infection caused by a fungus that results in itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet. 

HOW DID I GET ATHLETE’S FOOT?
The fungus that causes Athlete’s foot thrives in moist, dark areas such as shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, commons areas, public changing areas, bathrooms, dormitory style houses, locker rooms, and public swimming pools. It is spread by direct contact with an infected body part, contaminated clothing, or by touching other objects and body parts that have been exposed to the fungus.

HOW DO I GET RID OF ATHLETE’S FOOT?
Athlete’s foot is difficult to treat because of the highly contagious and recurrent nature of the fungus.

CAN OTHER BODY PARTS GET IT?
The most commonly infected body parts are the hands, groin, and scalp, as well as obviously the feet. 

IS IT COMMON?
Around 70% of the population suffer from such infections at some point in their lives, however not all of these cases are Athlete’s foot. Just like any other ailment, some people are more likely to get it than others; such as people with a history of other skin infections, both recurring and non-recurring ones. 

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Sometimes people will not even know that have Athlete’s foot because of a lack of symptoms. However, most people experience mild to moderate flaking, itching, redness, and burning. Some of the more severe symptoms include cracking and bleeding skin, intense itching and burning, pain while walking or standing, and even blistering.

CAN I PREVENT IT?
While it is hard to completely avoid, you can take some preventative measures such as wearing flip flops or sandals in locker rooms and public showers to reduce contact with the floor. It is important to keep the feet clean and dry, which will allow them to air out and breathe. 

 

If you suspect you have Athlete’s foot, please don’t hesitate to give us a call: (631) 604-4948.

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