If you find yourself repeatedly battling the uncomfortable (and embarrassing) symptoms of athlete’s foot, you're not alone. Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects as many as 70% of the population at some point in their lives — and it’s not just athletes who suffer from it!
Aamir Mahmood, DPM, and Joseph Wilson, DPM, FACFAS, know that treating an athlete’s foot on your own is not always easy. It can spread easily from toe to toe or even from one person in your house to another.
Read on to learn the steps to take if you keep getting athlete’s foot and how the Momentum Foot & Ankle Clinic team can help you squash your infection.
Athlete’s foot is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. It commonly affects the skin between your toes but can spread to the soles of your feet, the sides of your feet, and even your toenails.
Symptoms typically include:
Some symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so getting an accurate diagnosis is important before starting any treatment. Dishyrotic eczema, for example, can cause a blistery rash on the soles of your feet.
There are several reasons why you see infection after infection. Here are a few potential reasons:
Even if your symptoms improve, stopping treatment too early can leave some fungi alive, allowing the infection to come back. Make sure to follow the treatment instructions fully, even if your feet start to feel better.
Re-exposure to the fungus is another frequent cause of recurring athlete's foot. If you frequent places like public showers, locker rooms, or swimming pools, you’re at higher risk of picking up the fungus again. Always wear shower shoes or flip-flops in communal areas to reduce your risk.
Check your laundry routine. If your socks, shoes, or linens weren’t thoroughly washed, you might have accidentally re-exposed yourself.
Fungi thrive in warm, moist conditions. Wearing tight-fitting shoes and sweaty socks creates an ideal environment for fungus growth. Make sure to keep your feet as dry and cool as possible.
If you keep getting athlete’s foot, here are some steps to take:
Walking barefoot in communal spaces, such as locker rooms or public showers, can significantly increase your risk of developing a fungal infection, but it’s not the only risk factor.
Poor circulation, certain health conditions (such as eczema), having a family history of athlete’s foot, sweaty feet, and always wearing sturdy, unbreathable shoes can increase your risk.
Identify which risk factors apply to you and see if you can mitigate those risks. For example, if your feet are always sweaty, try changing your socks more often throughout the day. Let your shoes air dry before you re-wear them. Choose natural, breathable fabrics for your socks and shoes.
If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, you may need a prescription antifungal medication. Dr. Mahmood or Dr. Wilson can prescribe stronger topical treatments or oral antifungal medications if necessary. You might also benefit from antifungal powder.
Stash extra socks in your gym bag, your briefcase, or even in your car. If your feet are always sweaty, swap out your socks as soon as possible.
Start by washing your socks, towels, and bedding in hot water (140 degrees or hotter) with a quality detergent to kill any lingering fungi. Make sure to dry everything thoroughly, preferably in a hot dryer, as moisture can promote fungal growth.
Avoid wearing the same shoes or socks two days in a row to allow them to fully air out, and consider using antifungal sprays or powders inside your shoes. Thoroughly clean the inside of your gym bag as well.
If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatments and preventive measures but still keep getting athlete’s foot, it’s time to reach out for help. Our team can diagnose and treat athlete’s foot and help you create an action plan with lifestyle modifications to stop it for good.
Ready to get started? Call our Michigan City, Chesterton, Indiana, or Lombard, Illinois, office.
