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Athlete's Foot

Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey

Podiatry located in Cherry Hill, NJ

Though not generally a serious problem, athlete’s foot can be difficult to cure without professional treatment. The podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey offer effective treatments for athlete’s foot at their office in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. If you think you have athlete’s foot, call or book an appointment online today.

Athlete's Foot Q & A

What is athlete’s foot?

Also called tinea pedis, athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet. Athlete’s foot usually appears as a red, scaly rash that most often begins between the toes.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

  • A red, scaly rash
  • Itching and burning
  • Blisters that itch
  • Dry, cracked, peeling skin

Athlete’s foot is contagious and can spread from your toes to other parts of your feet, and even to your hands. That’s why it’s important not to scratch or pick at an athlete’s foot infection.

What causes athlete’s foot?

The fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm, damp environments like the inside of your shoes when your feet sweat. You can develop athlete’s foot through direct contact with an infected person or by touching a contaminated surface, like floors or towels.

Athlete’s foot got its name because it’s especially common among people who use public locker rooms, showers, and pools. These areas are ideal breeding grounds for fungi. Regardless of whether you play sports, you may be at risk of developing athlete’s foot if you walk through these facilities barefoot.

When should I see a podiatrist for athlete’s foot?

There are numerous over-the-counter treatments for athlete’s foot, including topical creams, powders, and sprays. If your athlete’s foot doesn’t go away with home treatment, you should schedule an appointment at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey.

People who have diabetes and develop athlete’s foot should call Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey right away, especially if you notice excessive redness, swelling, or a fever. These are signs of a secondary bacterial infection.

How is athlete’s foot treated?

First, your podiatrist at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey reviews your symptoms and medical history. They may be able to diagnose athlete’s foot simply by visually examining your foot, or they may take a small skin scraping for lab analysis.

Then, they recommend the best treatment for your athlete’s foot. This may include prescription antifungal cream or oral medication to kill the infection.

They also advise you on steps you can take to prevent athlete’s foot in the future, including:

  • Wear sandals in public showers and pools
  • Keep your feet clean and dry
  • Change your socks regularly

For more information about treating and preventing athlete’s foot, call Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey or book an appointment online today.