You don't have to be an athlete to have an athlete's foot. Athlete's foot, also known as Tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects your feet and makes the skin between your toes itchy, often accompanied by stingy rashes. You must have witnessed whitish, soggy skin near your toes or flaky soles. That's what characterizes an athlete's foot. Global estimates indicate that 15–25% of people suffer from athlete's foot. But almost every disease has a cure. Here are some options for athlete’s foot treatment.
Treatment of athlete's foot
Dermatophytes cause athlete's foot. It is a group of fungi that targets the keratinous tissue in our body. This particular tissue is abundant in our skin, nails, and hair, making it an easy target for the dermatophytes to attack. Research in medical science shows that men are at higher risk of contracting this disease. But what if you have already acquired an athlete's foot? Here are the ways you can cure an athlete's foot:
Home remedies are an excellent way to treat the condition if it impacts you mildly. A randomised study conducted in 2002 indicated that tea tree oil works wonders in treating fungal infections if applied twice daily. Neem oil also has anti-fungal properties. Ajoene, a compound found in garlic, provides an effective athlete’s foot treatment. A study has also shown that Vicks VapoRub can help fight fungi as it contains eucalyptus oil and menthol. Soaking feet in a solution of vinegar and water can also be helpful.
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Maintain good personal hygiene
Keep your feet dry. Change your socks frequently. Avoid walking barefoot in public showers. Let your feet dry in the fresh air.
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Over-the-counter (OTC) topical medication
Antifungal medications include miconazole, clotrimazole, and butenafine. Magenta or Castellani paint helps reduce inflammation. Applying prophylactic tolnaftate powder after showers helps decrease the severity of an athlete's foot. Topical treatment generally gives results within a month. If the condition still persists, you may need to see a doctor.
If topical medication does not provide relief, you may need oral medication. It is advisable to take Terbinafine, Fluconazole, Itraconazole, and Griseofulvin under a doctor's supervision. Potential side effects of these medicines include gastrointestinal problems.
Conclusion
Athlete's foot is not life-threatening, but it is highly contagious. Though athlete’s foot treatment provides relief, in cases of recurring problems, the emphasis must be on personal hygiene. If not taken care of, an athlete's foot may escalate into grievous diseases such as Impetigo, Cellulitis, Lymphangitis, and Dermatitis. In case of mishaps, health insurance always comes in handy. Ensure that you have access to one.
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