What causes Athlete's Foot infection?

Athlete's Foot is a common fungal infection, usually occurring between the toes or under the arch of the foot. It is highly contagious and caused by a number of detrimental fungi. The fungi flourish in a moist environment, and are easily contracted by direct contact with infected areas or through indirect contact with towels, shoes and shower areas. Failure to adequately dry the area between the toes after bathing is a major cause.

What happens with Athlete's foot infection?

Athlete's Foot is very common. Any factor that keeps the feet damp increases the risk of contracting Athlete's Foot. It manifests with itching and irritation between the toes with small blisters on the sides of the foot or between the toes (the area may peel and crack). A dry, scaly rash may appear on the bottom and sides of the feet. An unpleasant musty foot odour is usually present.

Traditional Pharmacy

The specific goal is to relieve the itching and pain, eradicate the infection and prevent recurrence. It is very important to commence treatment at the first sign of an itch or redness between the toes. Fortunately most Athlete's Foot infections can be treated and cured with over-the-counter medications and attention to foot care.

Dry the feet thoroughly before applying medication. In addition keep the feet cool and dry. Amongst the most effective topical medications are clotrimazole (available as a topical antifungal cream) and miconazole (available as a topical antifungal lotion). The medications should be applied twice a day. Bifonazole cream is also available as an effective once a day treatment. Treatment should be continued for a couple of weeks after the infection has disappeared to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Recurrent tinea of the feet may lead to tinea infection in the toenails. Topical application of a miconazole lotion twice a day is recommended.

Natural Pharmacy

Compresses of aloe, red clover or calendula may be helpful. Also tea tree oil (a few drops) mixed into a cream base and applied twice a day is recommended as a support treatment, relieving the itch. Garlic juice is reputed to relieve tinea, however the odour may not be agreeable to everyone.

What else to do

• If you contract Athlete's Foot, wash socks and towels in very hot water.
• Always strive to keep the feet dry and comfortable.
• Drying the feet with a hot air dryer may be helpful.
• It is helpful to exposure the feet to sunlight and fresh air.
• Sprinkle anti-fungal foot powder into socks and shoes.
• At home, use disinfectant on the shower and bathroom floor.

Prevention and Cautions

• Avoid tight, and poorly ventilated shoes
• Change socks and shoes frequently
• Ensure adequate cleanliness of the feet
• Avoid areas of constant moisture around the feet
• Be especially careful around showers and changing rooms after sports activity

Seek professional advice if:

• If you have pain and marked skin changes, including spreading to other areas.
• If extreme redness, cracking or oozing occurs.
• Stubborn infection may require prescription medication from your medical practitioner.

References

• The Merck Manual, 17th Edit. 1999
• The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition. 1998