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Athlete's Foot | Things to Know|
Athlete's Foot Information -Athlete's foot is a very common skin inflammation of the webs of the toes and soles of the feet, some studies put the rate of infection at about 70% of the population at some point in their lifetimes. -When caused by a fungus, athlete's foot can easily spread to the palms, groin, and body. -Fungal infections of the feet are contagious and can be spread person to person or by walking on contaminated objects and floors. -Athlete's foot may cause foot itching, burning, pain, and scaling. -When athlete's foot is caused by a fungus, it can be treated with antifungal medications, many of which are available over the counter. -Keeping the feet dry by using cotton socks and breathable shoes can help prevent athlete's foot along with maintaining good hygiene. The medical name for athlete's foot caused by a fungus is tinea pedis. There are a variety of fungi that cause athlete's foot, and these can be contracted in many locations, including gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, nail salons, and from contaminated socks and clothing. The fungi can also be spread directly from person to person by contact. Most people acquire fungus on the feet from walking barefoot in areas where someone else with athlete's foot has walked. Some people are simply more prone to this condition while others seem relatively resistant to it. Another colorful name for this condition is "jungle rot," often used by members of the armed services serving in tropical climates. The fungus that causes athlete's foot can be found on floors and clothing, and the organisms require a warm, dark, and humid environment in order to grow. The infection spreads by direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. As the infection spreads, it may affect the soles of the feet or the toenails. According to Dr. Weil, recommended treatment is as follows for athlete's foot Expose your feet to fresh air and sunlight. Keep them clean and dry - instead of closed shoes, wear sandals if you can. An excellent natural remedy is tea tree oil, extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia. This works as well as or better than pharmaceutical antifungal products. Apply a light coating to the affected area two or three times a day, and continue to apply it for two weeks after signs of the infection have disappeared to make sure the fungus is eradicated. Tea-tree oil will also clear up fungal infections of the toenails or fingernails, conditions that are usually difficult to cure, even with strong systemic antifungals - Dr. Weil's full detailed explanation of Athlete's foot |
