Ask The Doctor Athletes Foot That Wont Quit

Overview

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It usually starts between the toes and can make the skin itchy, red, flaky, or cracked. For some people, it keeps coming back because the fungus is still present or the feet stay damp and warm.

Yes. Athlete’s foot is one of the most common skin problems in the world. Many people get it at some point in their lives.

Anyone can get athlete’s foot. It is more likely in people with sweaty feet, people who use public pools or showers, and people with diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Itching, burning, or stinging between the toes
• Flaky, peeling, or cracked skin
• Redness or raw-looking areas
• Small blisters that may weep or crust
• Dry, scaly skin on the soles of the feet

Symptoms in children

• Scratching between their toes
• Complaints of itchy or sore feet
• Red, peeling skin between the toes
• Sometimes no obvious symptoms, but the rash can still spread

Symptoms in older adults

• Less itching and more dryness or cracking
• Thick, scaly skin on the soles or heels
• Pain in the feet when walking
• Higher risk of infection if the skin breaks

Causes

Main causes

• Tiny fungi called dermatophytes that feed on keratin in dead skin
• Fungi that are commonly found on floors, towels, and shoes
• Direct contact with an infected person or an animal

Risk factors

• Walking barefoot in public showers, pools, or gym changing areas
• Wearing tight, non-breathable shoes for long hours
• Sweaty feet and damp socks
• Cracked skin on the feet that lets the fungus in
• Having diabetes or an immune system problem

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have diabetes and you develop any foot infection or small wound
• If signs of a bacterial infection appear, such as spreading redness, pus, chills, or fever

Book a routine appointment if:

• If the rash has not improved after 2 weeks of self-care
• If it has come back more than a couple of times
• If you are unsure the problem is actually athlete’s foot

Diagnosis

A doctor can usually tell if you have athlete’s foot by looking at your skin and asking a few questions. Sometimes they take a small sample to confirm.

Tests that may be done

• Skin scraping taken from the affected area
• A quick microscope test in the clinic
• A lab test that grows the fungus to identify it

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will gently scrape a little skin from your foot with a small blade. It feels like a light scratch. You will usually get advice and treatment right away.

Treatment

Most athlete’s foot is treated with antifungal creams, sprays, or powders that you apply to the skin. The key is to keep using the treatment for as long as recommended, even after the rash looks better. If that does not clear it, your doctor may offer an oral antifungal medicine.

Self-care at home

• Wash your feet daily with warm water and soap, then dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes
• Use a clean towel and do not share towels or socks
• Wear cotton socks and change them every day, or more if your feet sweat
• Choose shoes that allow air to circulate, and avoid wearing the same pair two days in a row
• Wear flip-flops or water shoes in public showers, pools, and gym changing rooms

Medical treatments

There are several antifungal medicines available as creams, ointments, sprays, or powders. They are usually applied once or twice a day for a few weeks. For severe or stubborn cases, a doctor may prescribe a medicine taken by mouth. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist what option is best for you and how long to use it.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for athlete’s foot.

Living with this condition

Managing athlete’s foot is mostly about daily habits. Keep your feet dry, use the treatment as directed, and be patient. It can take a few weeks to clear, and it may come back if you stop the routine too early.

Lifestyle tips

• Dry between your toes with a separate towel or paper towel every time you wash
• Use antifungal foot powder if recommended by your pharmacist
• Let your shoes dry out fully between wears
• Wear sandals at home when you can
• If you go to a gym or pool, wear flip-flops

Diet and exercise

No specific food cures athlete’s foot. Exercise is good for your health and does not make the infection worse, as long as you dry your feet well afterwards and put on clean, dry socks.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A rash that will not go away can be frustrating and embarrassing. It may make you worry about your health or feel self-conscious. That is understandable. Try to remember that athlete’s foot is common, treatable, and not a reflection of your cleanliness. If the worry is affecting your mood, talk to a counsellor or your doctor.

Prevention

Yes, you can lower the risk of athlete’s foot by keeping your feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, changing socks daily, and not walking barefoot in public areas.

Complications

If left untreated

• The fungus can spread to your toenails, causing thick, discoloured nails that are harder to treat
• Cracked skin can let bacteria in, leading to a bacterial infection
• The infection may spread to the groin area, causing jock itch
• In people with diabetes or weak immunity, a foot ulcer can develop

Long-term outlook

With the right treatment and consistent care, athlete’s foot usually clears up within weeks. It may come back, but that does not mean you are doing something wrong. Most people manage it successfully and continue with normal activities.

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