ATHLETE’S foot is a fungal infection that affects approximately 15 per cent of the world’s population. It is a very common and contagious infection that can cause itching, cracking, peeling, blistering, scaling and flaking of the affected area, and is also known as moccasin foot, ringworm of the foot and tinea pedis.

The infection tends to occur on damp or sweaty skin, especially between the toes or on dry, flaky skin around the heel and borders of the foot.

In hot countries like Jamaica, where people wear a lot of slippers and sandals, the sun can dry out the skin, depleting it of its natural protective oils, and this can make one more prone to infection. It is therefore important to use lotion on the bottom of the feet.

WHO IS AT RISK?

Men tend to have a higher incidence of athlete’s foot than women, and adults are more prone than children. Those suffering with diabetes, HIV and other diseases that weaken the immune system are also more susceptible. If you are obese, you will also be more at risk of getting an infection as the fungus likes to inhabit the moist folds of skin.

There are many different types of fungus and these are transmitted, typically, in moist communal areas like gyms, schools, swimming pools, and shared showers. Once you have come into contact with the fungus, a warm moist shoe is the perfect environment for it to incubate. It is very easy for the fungus to spread to other parts of the body, so care should be taken not to pick at the skin or scratch.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT AND TREAT ATHLETE’S FOOT?

1. Wash your feet in cool water because hot water makes your feet more “fungus friendly”.

2. Don’t wear the same shoes every day, alternate them. Make sure you air them out as soon as you take them off. Your shoes should be wide enough so that air can circulate around your toes.

3. If you wear sneakers, purchase ones with ventilation holes. If they have removable insoles, always take them out after you have worn them to air them out.

4. Dust out your shoes with an antifungal powder daily.

5. Wear flip flops in public showers, gyms and pools.

6. If you have a dry fungal infection that tends to be on the borders of the foot, use an antifungal cream or ointment and clean your hands thoroughly after application.

7. Use an antifungal spray if the infection is between the toes or a spirit-based preparation. Though this may sting slightly, it evaporates the excess moisture and allows the skin to heal. Avoid powders and creams between the toes.

8. Use a separate towel when drying your feet or use kitchen roll. Dab them dry and don’t rub too harshly, as this can exacerbate the problem.

9. See your podiatrist or doctor if the problem persists.

Make sure you continue with this hygiene regime even when the symptoms have gone. The fungus may lie dormant and will reoccur if the environment is right.

Angela Davis BSc (Hons) DPodM MChS is a podiatrist with offices in Montego Bay, Mandeville, Ocho Rios, and Savanna-la-mar. She is a member of the Health and Care Professions Council in the United Kingdom. Contact her at 293-7119.