Description:

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection of the skin, typically caused by dermatophyte fungi, such as Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton interdigitale, or less commonly, Epidermophyton floccosum. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and primarily affect the spaces between the toes, the soles, and sometimes the sides of the feet.

Symptoms may include itching, redness, scaling, and cracking of the skin. In severe cases, blisters or secondary bacterial infections can occur. Athlete’s foot is highly contagious but treatable with proper care and preventative measures to minimise recurrence.

In the early stages to you tend to see some circular patterns form on the sole of the feet, this may be mistaken for dry skin. In the moderate stages between 4-8 weeks, you may start to get itching between the toes, and extensive circular patches of dry looking skin, and in the later stage after 8 weeks, you may struggle to sleep due to intense itching and/or burning

Causes:

Fungal Infection: Most commonly caused by:

Trichophyton rubrum: The most frequent culprit, causing persistent and widespread infections.

Trichophyton interdigitale: Often linked to infections between the toes.

Epidermophyton floccosum: A less common cause of athlete’s foot but still significant in certain cases.

Moisture and Warmth: Sweaty feet, damp socks, or wearing shoes for extended periods create ideal conditions for fungal growth.

Contact with Infected Surfaces: Walking barefoot in communal areas like pools, gyms, or locker rooms.

Poor Hygiene: Infrequent washing and drying of feet or sharing shoes and towels.

Symptoms:

Itching, burning, or stinging sensation, especially between the toes.

Red, flaky, or peeling skin.

Cracked or fissured skin, particularly in severe cases.

Blisters or oozing lesions in acute infections.

Dry, scaly skin on the soles of the feet (moccasin-type athlete’s foot).

Risks if left untreated:

Spread of Infection: Athlete’s foot can spread to toenails (causing fungal nails) or other parts of the body, like the groin (tinea cruris).

Secondary Infections: Cracks or open wounds may lead to bacterial infections, cellulitis, or ulcers.

Persistent Discomfort: Chronic itching and skin damage can affect daily activities and quality of life.

What Appointment to Book:

New Patients: Initial Consultation.

Returning Patients: Advanced Therapies or Review.

Photo: Import a stock photo of athletes foot.

Effective Treatments We Offer:

• Topical Antifungal Creams: Prescription-strength treatments to target the fungal infection directly.
• Oral Antifungal Medication: For widespread or resistant infections, tablets like Terbinafine or Itraconazole may be prescribed.
• Debridement of Infected Skin: Removal of thickened or damaged skin to enhance the effectiveness of topical treatments.
• Foot Hygiene Education: Guidance on keeping feet clean and dry to prevent reinfection.
• Antifungal Sprays and Powders: For treating shoes and socks, minimising fungal spores that contribute to reinfection.
• Laser Therapy: In some cases, advanced light therapies may help eradicate fungal infections and promote healthy skin.

With personalised treatments and preventative strategies, we aim to alleviate discomfort, promote healing, and provide you with longer-lasting relief, so you can maintain healthy, comfortable feet.