Athlete’s foot is a common but irritating skin infection. It can cause a lot of discomfort and be tough to get rid of once you have it. If you find yourself suffering from athlete’s foot, you should treat it quickly to limit irritation and keep it from spreading or being passed on to another person. The foot doctors at Comfort Stride can provide you with an accurate diagnosis, the right advice, and athlete’s foot treatment options to give you relief.

All About Athlete’s Foot

• What is it: Also known as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is a fungal infection. It typically begins between the toes or soles of the feet and can spread to the rest of the foot or other areas of the body.
• How it is caused: It usually affects athletes whose feet become warm and moist from sweat during extended activity. This warm, damp environment is encouraged by tight-fitting shoes and can lead to the growth of fungus. It is a contagious infection that can also be spread through floors, towels or clothing that have been contaminated by the fungus.
• Symptoms: Most people who develop athlete’s foot will notice a scaly rash on their toes that can cause itching, stinging and burning.
• Prevention: Keep feet dry as much as possible, especially during sports or other strenuous activities. Cotton socks and shoes that breathe will encourage feet to dry and create a less inviting habitat for fungus to develop. People with diabetes, the elderly, and those with a weaker or compromised immune system should take extra precautions as they are more susceptible to getting athlete’s foot.

When to Visit a Doctor for Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot can usually be treated at home with over-the-counter medications. However, it is best to contact your doctor or a foot care specialist in the GTA for athlete’s foot services if you face an infection with the following symptoms:

• Severe scaling, cracking, peeling or bleeding
• Blisters that develop on your feet
• Recurring infection
• Signs of infection develop, such as swelling, pain, red streaks, pus, or a fever
• The infection spreads (common areas include the palms and groin)
• You have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation
• Symptoms persist after 4 weeks with non-prescription antifungal medicine or 2 weeks of treatment

Monitor your athlete’s foot and take preventative measures to keep from spreading it to other people in your home, gym, or other area where you walk around barefoot. If you are unsure about the severity of your infection or have questions about treating athlete’s foot, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Comfort Stride. Our friendly and experienced foot doctors can assess your foot ailments, from fungal infections to warts and injuries. We are dedicated to getting your feet healthy and pain-free!

Come into Comfort Stride for treatment options for athlete’s foot. Learn how to prevent future athlete’s foot by coming into our clinic or call us at (647) 989-7794.