Introduction
Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection also known as Tinea pedis, where “Tinea” means ringworm, and “pedis” means foot or feet. The Athlete’s foot is caused by a variety of fungi that thrives in a closed, warm, moist environment, belonging to the group dermatophytes that cause jock itch and ringworm. This fungal infection occurs in people on their toes whose feet are very sweaty. The symptoms of athlete's foot include an itchy, stinging, burning rash on the skin, like the top of the feet, the soles of the feet, etc.
What are the symptoms of Athlete’s foot?
The symptoms of athlete’s foot include:
- A person has smelly toes and itching, especially after taking off shoes and socks.
- The burning sensation between the toes and soles of the feet.
- Scaly, peeling and cracked skin between toes.
- Inflamed skin that causes redness and sometimes blisters on the skin.
- Bacterial infections cause open sores in the skin.
- If an athlete’s foot is left untreated, then there is a risk of spreading infection from one toe to another.
- In some rare cases, the infection can spread to the hands, a condition known as Tinea manuum.
Conclusion
Athlete’s foot is an unpleasant, annoying condition that causes itchy, flaky and smelly feet. It is advisable to seek proper treatment under the guidance of a healthcare provider to treat the fungal infection because fungal infections can easily spread from one toe to another on the feet and, in some rare cases, even on the palms of the hands. A health insurance policy can help cover doctor consultations and prescribed treatments for athlete’s foot, ensuring effective management of the infection without financial worries.
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