Podiatrists Warn To Watch Where You’re Walking Barefoot

Experts say up to 70 percent of the population may catch athlete’s foot during their lifetime. Millions of men and women are currently suffering from mycosis of the feet, and most don’t recognize it as a fungal infection. According to most Orthotics Specialists bradenton fl residents can safeguard against fungal infections with regular foot care. 

How Do Fungal Infections Impact Our Feet? 

Athlete’s feet is a fungal infection, and athletes are more susceptible to catching it because of the environments they train in. It’s a common condition that affects the soles of the feet, the toenails, and the skin between the toes. Red, itchy rashes are usually the first telltale sign, which most people disregard, thinking it’s probably just dry skin. 

Fungal infections occur as a result of several different varieties of fungi, and they can be spread at public places. In fact, this fungus is usually burdensome at places like gyms, and especially swimming pools where humidity helps the fungus thrive. You can also be infected at nail salons when instruments are not effectively cleaned. Podiatrists also point out that fungal infections can also be transmitted directly from person to person, so an innocent afternoon of playing “footsie” with your significant other can result in foot infections. However, the infection is generally acquired when you walk barefoot in places where there was someone with athlete’s foot. 

Some people are more prone to this condition, while others are relatively resistant to it. Another reason for a populous number of people with athlete’s feet may be the conditions of a warm climate, like in Florida. Without the appropriate environment (warm and humid environments), the fungus cannot easily infect the skin. Experts say that even if a person is attentive and protected in public places, such as the bathroom and the sauna or the pool, one can get athlete’s foot because of any small wounds, like a cut. This is why it’s important to inspect your feet and consult a podiatrist if anything is suspect. A fungus that causes mycosis is hidden in the showers, and on the floors of anywhere the environment is warm and moist, like in saunas and in bathrooms. 

What Are Some DIY Treatment Options For Athlete’s Feet? 

Podiatrist say if you have contracted athlete’s feet you should not try any do-it-yourself, at-home treatments for this fungus. This type of infection can potentially spread to other parts of the body or to other people, including family members. The fungus can spread locally to the legs, nails, hands and virtually any part of the body. This type of fungus – onychomycosis – generally loves to infiltrate skin, hair, and nails, and remains contagious if not treated. The longer the infection is ignored, the more difficult treatment, and elimination becomes. Doctors will typically use topical creams and sprays to treat the infections; however, in more challenging occurrences antifungal tablets may be required. The proper protocol is to have your feet checked by a professional. Although, doctors say you should wear protective shoes in public areas, and thoroughly wash and dry your feet every day. This can help protect feet from contracting fungal infections.