The Most Important Facts You Should Know about Athlete's Foot ...

Generally, athlete’s foot starts between the toes, but then spreads to other parts of the foot. That’s one of the most important facts about athlete’s foot that you need to know because it allows you to detect when the condition first starts. you can then jump right into treating the problem, which will help alleviate a lot of the pain and discomfort that is associated with athlete’s foot.

Great, right? But, yes, athlete’s foot is highly contagious. You can pick it up from floors, towels and clothing that harbor the fungus that causes the condition. The gym and public pool are two places that require caution so you don’t end up with this nasty issue. Make sure you wear flip flops on public floors so you don’t pick it up.

According to the Mayo Clinic, athlete’s foot often recurs. You might successfully get rid of the problem, but it often comes back. That’s why it’s so vital to make sure you follow your doctor’s directions very closely when it comes to treating your case of athlete’s foot. That way you can cut down on the chances that you’ll have to start all over again.

Unfortunately, while athlete’s foot isn’t an inherently dangerous condition, it can be painful and uncomfortable. The National Institute of Health report that the most commons symptoms include itching, burning and cracked skin as well as scaly skin. Again, it starts between your toes, but can spread if you don’t take action to treat it as soon as possible. You might also have to battle ulcers or blisters in severe cases.

Do not, under any circumstances, pick or touch your athlete’s foot without immediately washing your hands after. That’s because it can spread to your hands. As if it isn’t gross enough on your feet, right? So anytime you apply ointments or give in to the urge to scratch your feet, head to the sink and suds up with soap and warm water right away to prevent having to deal with it on your fingers and hands at the same time.

For many people, over-the-counter medications can get rid of athlete’s foot while alleviating the symptoms at the same time. However, is some cases, the condition doesn’t respond to this type of treatment. If that’s the case for you, it’s important to talk to your doctor about more aggressive treatment options. Left untreated, athlete’s foot can progress to other parts of your body.

Good news! You can prevent athlete’s foot. As I said above, wear shoes when you walk around public pools, recreation centers and gyms. If you get sweaty feet, be sure to switch out to clean, dry socks often. When you are at home, go barefoot so your feet can air out and the skin stays dry instead of damp. Avoid sharing shoes and alternate days of wear with your own pairs.

Have you ever had athlete’s foot? I am lucky enough to have escaped it so far, but I can remember the misery my dad went through when I was a kid because he often got it. What do you think is the best way to treat athlete’s foot?