Athlete's Foot Specialist
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Bailey Griffin, DPM
Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Humble, TX
Despite its name, athlete’s foot can, in fact, affect anyone. If you live in or near Humble, Texas, Bailey Griffin, DPM, is a highly trained podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon with ample experience treating athlete’s foot and improving foot health. For expert care if you’re dealing with itchy, uncomfortable skin that’s become a functional and aesthetic problem, call or schedule an appointment online today.
Athlete's Foot Q & A
What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot, also sometimes referred to as tinea pedis, is a skin disease that generally occurs between your toes, though it can affect other parts of the foot.
The fungi responsible for athlete’s foot commonly attack feet due to the warm, moist, and dark environment created by shoes that encourages fungus growth. If left untreated, it can spread to your toenails, soles of your feet, and other parts of your body as well.
What causes athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus. Most people contract the fungus in communal areas, such as showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools where the warmth and dampness become a breeding ground for fungi.
The skin condition was labeled athlete’s foot due to its high prevalence among athletes who use these types of facilities frequently and often walk barefoot in them.
What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?
If you have athlete’s foot, you might notice:
- Dry-looking skin
- Itching and burning between your toes
- Peeling or scaling and red skin
- Swelling and inflammation of the area
You might also have blisters that can lead to cracking and peeling skin on your toes and feet. When blisters break, small raw areas of the tissue become exposed and can cause swelling.
How is athlete’s foot treated?
If left untreated, the fungi can continue to thrive. If you have a fungal infection of the foot that doesn’t respond to proper foot hygiene, visit Dr. Griffin for treatment.
After Dr. Griffin first determines that you have athlete’s foot, she might recommend topical or oral antifungal prescription medication. Mild cases of athlete’s foot might respond to over-the-counter antifungal ointment, lotion, spray, or powder. If the infection is bacterial, Dr. Griffin can prescribe antibiotics that are effective against bacteria.
It’s best to keep your feet dry using foot powder in clean shoes and socks. Bathe your feet frequently and be sure to clean the areas around your toes. Avoid walking barefoot in communal and public places, such as swimming pool and gym locker rooms, and change your shoes and socks regularly to reduce moisture.
If someone in your family develops athlete’s foot, disinfect your home showers and bathtubs to prevent the infection from spreading.
Dr. Griffin can help you get rid of your athlete’s foot and enhance your foot health and hygiene. Call Bailey Griffin, DPM, or book an appointment online today.
