26 August 2020 Athletes foot is the name given to a fungal infection of the skin on the soles of the feet and interdigital spaces (between the toes). It is one of the most common infections. It is estimated that approximately 70% of the population will have this infection throughout their life, with the incidence increasing with age. What is the cause of athletes foot? This infection caused by fungi called dermatophytes that feed on the keratin produced by our skin, hair and nails. Contagion is by contact with the fungus , for example when walking barefoot in places where it is present, left by other people, for example in changing rooms. The heat and humidity in the feet due to the prolonged use of closed shoes favor infection. Excessive sweating and maceration of the feet and activities such as swimming also increase the likelihood of being affected. Athlete foot is more frequent in some families due to the genetic predisposition to develop this infection. How does the disease manifests? Affected people often experience itching and peeling of the soles of their feet. Between the toes, the athletes foot manifests as redness and moist white patches, which can even make cracks. In older people only peeling can occur. Often athletes foot is accompanied by fungal nail infections, usually with thickened and yellow nails. How to prevent athlete foot What you should do: Dry your feet well after a shower or bath, especially between your toes. It is advisable to do it gently, not rubbing vigorously the interdigital spaces; Use a different towel for your feet and wash it regularly; Take off your shoes when you get home; Wear sandals or other airy shoes whenever possible; Wear clean socks every day, preferably cotton; You can use drying powders with antifungals. What you should not do: Do not scratch the affected skin areas, it can spread the infection to other areas of the body; Do not walk barefoot in areas such as showers or common showers; Do not share towels, socks or shoes with other people; Do not wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row; Do not wear shoes that make your feet feel hot and wet; Old shoes must be discarded or treated with antifungals. Athletes foot treatment For the treatment of athletes foot, both topical (in creams and ointments) or oral antifungals (in tablets or syrups) can be used. The choice of treatment is determined by your physician, depending on the characteristics of the infection, other associated health problems and whether the nails are also affected. When a treatment is prescribed, it is very important that it is followed, including during the indicated number of days or weeks, to guarantee total cure and prevent recurrences. And the aforementioned athletes foot prevention measures cannot be overlooked. Consult your doctor urgently: If you feel a lot of pain; The foot is red, hot and painful; If you have diabetes, as problems with your feet give rise to other complications; If you have a weakened immune system, for example, if you have received a transplant or are undergoing chemotherapy. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
