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What
is athlete's foot?
Definition
Athlete’s foot is a common
infection of the skin and nails
characterized by itching, scaling,
redness, and the formation of small
blisters. In general the lesions
start between the toes and can extend
to the borders and bottom of the
foot. The fungus has the potential
to spread to the toenails, causing
them to become thickened, discoloured,
and painful. In this case the infection
is called onychomycosis (see page
5 of this section for more details).
While this infection is common among
athletes, keep in mind that it can
affect athletes and non-athletes
alike.
Causes
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The feet are vulnerable
because shoes commonly create
a warm, dark and humid environment
that encourages fungal growth.
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Athlete’s foot can also
be contracted in dressing rooms,
hotel and locker room showers,
and swimming pool locker rooms
where bare feet may come in contact
with the fungus. |
What can you
do?
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Keep shoes and socks
dry as a preventive measure |
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Practise good foot hygiene,
including daily washing of the
feet with soap and water; drying
feet carefully, especially between
the toes |
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Change shoes regularly and
wear acrylic or cotton socks |
What might the podiatrist do?
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Prescribe topical
anti-fungal medications |
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Prescribe oral anti-fungal medications
(only available by prescription) |
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