The facts are startling: 70% of people will be affected by
athlete’s foot in their lifetime, 45% of people with athlete’s foot will suffer
from it in episodes for more then 10 years, and seven out of 10 people with
athlete’s foot are male.
weather and foot perspiration that athletes typically encounter can make
athlete’s foot a common problem. The combination of a warm and humid
environment in your footwear, excessive foot perspiration, and changes in the
condition of the skin combine to create a setting for the fungi of athlete’s
foot to begin growing. Athlete’s foot usually occurs between the toes or under
the arch of the foot. Typical signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot include
itching, dry and cracking skin, inflammation with a burning sensation, and
pain. Blisters and swelling may develop if left untreated. When these blisters
break, small, red areas of raw tissue are exposed. As the infection spreads,
the burning and itching will increase.
Treatment includes keeping the feet clean and dry; frequent socks
changes, antifungal medications, and foot powders. An antiperspirant may also
help those with excessive foot moisture.
Check your local drugstore or pharmacy for a complete line of athlete’s
foot antifungal ointments, creams, liquids, powders, and sprays. See your
doctor if your feet do not respond to treatment with over-the-counter
medications. If the fungus returns, alternate medications since it can
sometimes build up a resistance to a particular fungicide.
