Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that can affect anyone and is not restricted to athletes only. Contrary to its name, anyone who sweats a lot can easily be susceptible to this contagious fungal skin infection. Also known as tinea pedis this condition infects the toe webs and the soles of the feet. It causes inflammation, cracked skin, scaling, itchiness, and burning sensations and may even spread to the groin, palm and other parts of the body, if untreated.

Love and pamper your feet
Athlete’s foot is caused in the feet, which is the most neglected yet an important part of our body. People groom themselves daily and focus on the face, hair, hands, and fingernails. But never the feet.

• We need to wash our feet regularly with soap and water and dry them in the areas between the toes. Alternatively, you may use a hair dryer to dry your feet during damp weather. This prevents the fungi from thriving if infected.
• Regular pedicure and soaking of feet in warm, medicated or saline water discourages the growth of this fungi too.
• The ones suffering from poor blood circulation due to diabetes are more prone to athlete’s foot. Use pure coconut oil to massage your feet regularly.

Selection of footwear and socks

• Avoid wearing tight, closed- fitted shoes as they trap the heat and cause the feet to sweat, creating a damp, warm environment, which is ideal for the fungi to breed. Choose shoes made of breathable material, to allow the air to flow in and out freely. Whenever possible, allow your feet to breathe by removing your shoes.
• Alternately, let the shoes that you wear daily dry as these fungi breed in moist and warm areas. Remember to air footwear frequently.
• Always wear clean and dry cotton socks. If you have sweaty feet, then take a change of socks with you when you go to work. Dust your feet with antifungal powder after drying your feet.

Be cautious in public places
Places like the swimming pool decks, shower cubicles, locker rooms, and gyms are often moist and humid. Instead of walking barefoot in these places, always use sandals or flip flops and avoid direct contact with the fungi that may be lurking around on the wet floor. Always disinfect or sanitize your feet before leaving the place.

Refrain from sharing and borrowing
This fungus can also spread through indirect contact with used clothing, towels, bedsheets, and socks and shoes. So the ground rule is to never share or borrow anything.

Immune system
Last but not least, you’re more likely to get athlete’s foot if you have a weak immune system. So boost it by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Have a healthy diet and sanitize your surroundings.