Fact or fiction: Athlete’s foot [series]

Athlete’s foot is an infection that gets debated often: is it contagious or not, do people with poor hygiene levels get athlete’s foot, do only athletes suffer from athlete’s foot? 

When it comes to the body, it is important to understand common conditions such as athlete’s foot in order to prevent and treat it. 

What causes Athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is caused by a variety of fungi belonging to the group dermatophytes. According to MedicineNet.com, other causes of Athlete’s foot can include a contact allergy, bacterial infection and occasionally psoriasis,  to name a few.

This condition is characterised by redness, blistering and / or scaling of the soles and in between the toes, causing discomfort and itching. 

Since there are so many different opinions regarding athlete’s foot, we have collected the most common responses to athlete’s foot and have investigated whether they are fact or fiction:

• Only athletes suffer from Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot got its name because it thrives in areas that athletes often frequent: such as changing rooms, showers, gyms and swimming pools. Athletes’ feet also sweat a lot (go figure) which provides the optimal environment for fungi development (damp and warm).

• You can only get athlete’s foot by walking barefoot

While it is true that you can get this infection by walking around without wearing shoes – especially in areas mentioned in the previous point – you can also get athlete’s foot by sharing socks, shoes, towels or other items with someone that is already infected.

• Athlete’s foot is not contagious

Another misconception around athlete’s foot is that it is not at all contagious, but, in actual fact, it is! As mentioned previously, Athlete’s foot can be spread directly by person to person contact, sharing personal items and walking barefoot in moist environments that others with this infection have frequented.

• Only people with poor levels of personal hygiene suffer from Athlete’s foot

This is simply not true. You can wash your feet several times a day, but if they are not dried properly, you are more susceptible to a fungal infection. Furthermore, people with weakened immune systems or diabetes are more likely to become infected if they have a sore or cut on their feet.

• Inflammation is only limited to feet

While the name “Athlete’s foot” sounds like it is limited to the feet only, this is not the case. It can also spread to the palms, groin (called “jock itch”) and body. If you scratch your feet and other parts of the body, it can spread. 

• You can steer clear if your wear closed shoes and socks

While it is true that your feet are protected in the enclosed environment of your shoes, you are prone to Athlete’s foot if your feet are sweaty, since this fungus flourishes in warm, dark and damp areas. Ensure you keep your feet dry, or out in the air if possible.

How do you treat Athlete’s foot?

An infection can be treated with over-the-counter topical antifungal medications. If this is not effective, your local doctor can recommend treatments or oral medications to clear up the infection. Tests can also be done to ensure it is in fact Athlete’s foot or another condition causing the discomfort.

How do you prevent Athlete’s foot?

• Be sure to alternate between different pairs of shoes, so that your shoes get the change to properly dry.
• Change your socks when your feet get sweaty.
• Don’t share your socks, shoes or other personal items.
• Wear socks made from breathable fibers, especially synthetic fibers as they draw moisture off the skin. 
• Be sure to wear flip flops or sandals to areas such as public areas including pools, showers and changing rooms. 
• When you arrive home be sure to go barefoot to air your feet out 
• Wash your feet with soap and water on a daily basis and ensure you dry the areas in between your toes as well. 
• Apply antifungal powder to your feet and place inside your shoes.

Athlete’s foot can become an uncomfortable, sore and itchy experience if you leave it for too long. Be sure to follow the prevention tips above, or consult with your general practitioner if you do experience the symptoms.

Keep regular hygiene in place at the workplace with Initial.