What is athlete's foot?

Tinea Pedis is the medical term for Athlete's foot this is a fungal skin infection of the foot. It is more common in sports people who regularly use communal bathing areas.

What are the symptoms of athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot can easily be passed from one person to another. The fungus prefers to live in warm, moist environments and this is why symptoms will often appear first between the toes. A rash that is scaly and itchy may appear and this may become red and sore if it is left untreated. The rash may also spread to the sole of the foot.

What should I do if I have athlete's foot?

If you suspect that you have athlete's foot then you should arrange an assessment with our Chiropodist and Podiatrist as soon as possible.

What shouldn't I do if I have athlete's foot?

If you suspect that you have athlete's foot then you should not ignore it in the hope that it will go away without treatment.

Could there be any long term effects from athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot is not a serious infection and can be treated quickly and easily with the correct advice and medication. However if left untreated it can lead to further infection, especially if small lesions appear, as this can allow both bacteria and fungal infection to enter the deeper layers of the skin, often causing patients to require hospital treatment.

Podiatry treatment for athlete's foot.

Your podiatrist can advise on the most effective treatment for your symptoms, as well as providing information about how to avoid the problem returning. Following your treatment, simple steps to reduce athlete's foot from recurring include; washing toes and feet daily and thoroughly drying between the toes to avoid a moist home for the fungus to thrive, changing socks daily and alternating your footwear, and wearing flip flops when at the swimming pool or other communal wet areas.