Athletes Foot

Athlete’s foot is the common name for fungal infection of the foot. It is also known as “Tinea Pedis”. It often presents as an itchy and red rash, occasionally with blisters or breaks in the skin

The visible rash is a reaction to the microscopic fungal particles which are growing on the skin. As the fungus digests the outer layers of dead skin, it releases chemicals which irritate the skin.

Most of the time the fungus would live on the skin, as it is one of the many resident organisms that live on our bodies. When the skin is kept in state that encourages fungal growth, the tinea can grow to numbers that cause a skin rash.

Prevention of Tinea pedis;

-          Keep your feet clean and try where possible.

-          Wear a clean pair of socks everyday

-          If your shoes get wet, make sure to dry them before wearing again

In the event of a tinea infection, topical anti-fungal creams are usually quite effective. Make sure that you follow the directions on the product label.

If the infection does not resolve, you should see you doctor or podiatrists to have it checked.