Athlete’s Foot: How You Can Avoid Its Return
posted: Apr. 08, 2015.
Athlete’s foot is a common skin condition caused by a fungus. Approximately one in four people will get it at some point in their lives. In many case, treating it with an anti-fungal cream treats the athlete’s foot fungus quite well, but there are some things you can do to avoid its return.
Athlete’s Foot: How You Can Avoid its Return
Here are some tips to avoid a recurrence of athlete’s foot:
- Make a point of washing your feet every day. Dry the skin between your toes thoroughly after washing.
- Be sure that your feet are thoroughly dry before putting your socks on. The damp skin between the toes makes the perfect breeding ground for the athlete’s foot fungus.
- Change your socks every day. The fungus can spread in flakes of skin clinging inside unwashed socks. Choose cotton socks and leather shoes, if possible, since these materials “breathe”. Nylon socks and man-made footwear tend to hold moisture in, close to the body, and increase sweating, which only increases the amount of foot fungus.
- Take your shoes and socks off and go barefoot as often as is practical when you are at home. This practice will let the air get to your feet.
- Wear flip-flops or plastic sandals when you visit public showers or swimming pools. It will prevent your feet from coming into contact with the floor and becoming reinfected from other people.
- If the athlete’s foot keeps coming back, consult with a podiatrist to find out whether using an anti-fungal spray or cream regularly as a precaution may help.
As an experienced podiatrist, Sheldon H. Nadal, D.P.M. can diagnose and treat your foot and ankle concerns, including athlete’s foot. Contact him today to make an appointment for your personal consultation.