Athlete’s foot may not be a serious problem, but it can be for people with health problems, such as diabetes, respiratory disorders or weak immune system. Actually anyone can be infected by athlete’s foot. That is why immediate treatment is important because the fungus could easily spread throughout the household and infect others.
The skin disorder is commonly contracted when the feet gets in contact with tinea fungus that exist in dirty bathroom floors, dirty carpets and rugs as well as filthy closed shoes. Mainly because the fungus thrives on dirt that has accumulated in moist surfaces, to which growth is promoted by warm temperatures.
Manifestations of Athlete’s Foot Infection
Once the tinea fungus infects the skin surface, it causes skin redness that stings and itches. Since the sole of the feet is often the first to come in contact with the parasite, infection usually occurs between the toes.
If the first signs of athlete’s foot are not treated, blisters develop and lead to skin-cracking, peeling, worsening infection once other types of bacteria feed on exposed raw skin. In severe cases, the toenails discolor and later turn thick and crumbly; signs that the toenails are getting detached from their nail bed as a result of the fungal infestation.
Treatment and Prevention of Athlete’s Foot
Tinea pedis or athlete’s food can easily be treated by applying an antifungal topical cream, gel or lotion that can be bought without prescription.
However, if athlete’s foot becomes a chronic infection, seeing a doctor is necessary. A doctor can prescribe a more potent formulation of antifungal medication. Application of the topical ointment must continue for the entire period prescribed by the doctor.
In severe cases of chronic athlete’s foot infection that does not go away after the prescribed term of treatment, the doctor is likely to recommend oral antifungal medication to supplement the topical treatment.
Addressing the Root Cause to Prevent Chronic Infection
Chronic diseases are best addressed by taking actions that will eliminate the source or root cause of the problem. Proper hygiene and the cleanliness of one’s living space are factors that can prevent the frequent recurrence of athlete’s foot.
Keeping the toenails short and clean, as well avoiding dirty public showers can prevent the recurrence of tinea pedis. Prevention also includes keeping the feet clean and dry, especially when wearing closed-toe footwear like rubber shoes, boots or pumps.
Regularly cleaning the bathroom floors and walls with a disinfecting solution can prevent the growth of molds and other carriers of the tinea fungus.
Thoroughly vacuuming the carpet regularly can remove carpet filth. Yet in humid and moist regions like South Florida, it is better to call on providers of carpet cleaning services port charlotte fl homeowners find efficient in combating mold growth and other parasites.
