How to best treat Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot can happen to anyone not just athletes like its name, and it is much more common than you think. 15 – 25% of people have athlete’s foot at one point in their life. The main culprit for this problem is fungus. The most common symptoms of athlete’s foot are red rashes, itchy scaling or cracked area between toes and bottom of feet. With that being said, even though it can get really annoying, athlete’s foot is definitely treatable.

1.      Treat with Anti-fungal creams

There are many anti-fungal topical creams out there on the market that you can easily purchase to immediately start your athlete’s foot treatment. Notable products out there are Lotrimin, Derman, or Fugacil. Applying in between all toes or the bottom of your feet continuously for 2-4 weeks usually will get rid of athlete’s foot

2.      Soaks your feet in bleach water

You have to be careful with the amount of bleach you mix in because it can burn your skin if you put too much. No more than 1 tablespoon with half a gallon of water is highly recommended. Doing so for 10 minutes every night will help killing the fungus.

3.      Let your feet breath

It is greatly advised to let your feet air out as much as possible while having athlete’s foot but not walking barefoot. If you live in the area that is not too cold and can wear open-toed shoes, it is a good idea to do so as well as rotating your shoes and don’t wear the same one two days in a row. Preventing your feet from being trapped will speed up the recovery process.

4.      Watch out your sweat

Moist environments are where fungus thrive the most.  That’s why athletes tend to get fungal infection more than normal because they sweat excessively on a daily basis. Keep your feet as dry as possible by using anti-fungal powder. Putting it on your feet before putting your socks on to keep them dry. Change your socks every day and carry extra pairs with you in case you sweat a lot. Use soap and water to wash your feet regularly.

5.      Don’t walk barefoot

Walking barefoot in public places will increase the chance of getting infected as well as recurrence. Make sure you have at least a slippers with you when you go to the gym, swimming pool, hotel showers, locker room, etc. Avoid walking barefoot even in your own home to prevent recurrence.

6.      Bleach your shower and socks

Bleach the bottom of your shower or tub once a week is greatly advised. Also, bleach your socks routinely every week will help preventing reinfection of athlete’s foot.

7.      Treat people around you

Athlete’s foot is contagious therefore if you live or have physical contact with anyone, make sure to get them treated as well. The battle with athlete’s foot is mainly about preventing recurrence and not so much of treatment.