Athlete's foot is an uncomfortable condition that is much more common than it may seem. Up to 15-25% of people suffer from it. This infection lurks everywhere, especially in damp environments - swimming pools, bathrooms, footwear, even bedding or loofahs. Most people don't take this disease seriously, but if left untreated, a damaged skin barrier can lead to a secondary infection (caused by other microorganisms). Also, if the fungus persists, the infection can spread to the hands and fingernails.
People suffering from this disease experience discomfort, are afraid to wear open shoes, and show their feet, which leads to constant anxiety, a deterioration in quality of life, and the disease hindering work and leisure. Therefore, it is very important to talk about athlete's foot, how to treat it, and most importantly, how to prevent it!
HOW TO RECOGNIZE ATHLETE'S FOOT?
Athlete's foot affects various parts of the foot, but most commonly the toes, soles, and nails. The affected skin reddens, flakes, cracks, and there is an itchy sensation. Nails become dull, weaken, start to break, turn yellow, sometimes thicken, and deform.
WHAT CREATES FAVORABLE CONDITIONS FOR THE ONSET OF THE DISEASE?
1. Moisture. Especially sweaty feet, unменяемые socks, and footwear. Human skin constantly renews itself, so there are always dead cells on its surface, which, together with moisture, create excellent conditions for fungal growth.
2. Infection. Fungus doesn't appear out of nowhere; people contract this microorganism in swimming pools, saunas, by sharing towels, and nail care tools.
3. Weakened immunity due to other infectious, autoimmune, or chronic diseases.
4. Improper foot hygiene. Infrequently washed feet, unchanged socks, constant moisture in footwear.
5. Various chronic diseases (one of the most common is diabetes), which lead to poor blood circulation and sensation in the feet.
HOW TO PREVENT ATHLETE'S FOOT?
1. In public swimming pools, saunas, water parks, and hotels, wear your own footwear.
2. Do not share foot hygiene products, shoes, or socks.
3. When visiting a pedicurist, ensure that all used tools are disinfected.
4. Avoid damp environments.
5. Take care of your foot hygiene!
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOT HYGIENE RULES?
1. Wash your feet daily with soap, especially if you sweat a lot or after exercise. After washing, dry them thoroughly and allow your feet to air dry.
2. When trimming nails, avoid cutting the corners; do not damage the skin.
3. Avoid synthetic socks; choose cotton ones and change them daily, or more often if your feet sweat excessively.
4. Avoid shoes that do not allow your feet to breathe or cause excessive sweating (plastic, rubber, shoes made of poor-quality materials, athletic shoes made of artificial leather).
5. Use foot care products with antifungal properties. Disinfecting sprays, foot powders that prevent feet from getting damp. You can purchase our tested and recommended products in the fungal prevention section.
6. Take care of your feet! Regularly check for wounds, calluses, or changes in the skin, nails, and between the toes.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT ATHLETE'S FOOT?
Consult a dermatologist. After assessing the situation, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment for you. Do not self-medicate; what helped your neighbor may not necessarily help you :)
Do you have questions? Write to me, and we will try to find the best solution to your problems together!
Karolina
