Athletes foot - How to fight this annoying fungus infection

By Paul Simpson

What is athletes foot?
Athlete's foot is the common name for ringworm of the foot, or Tinea Pedis which is the medical term for the condition. Athlete's foot is a fungus infection and is caused by mold like fungus called Dermatophytes which thrive on the warm, sometimes moist from sweat, area of the feet allowing them to multiply.

What causes athlete's foot?
Athlete's foot is normally caused by coming into contact with some other human being or even an animal which already has the fungus infection. You can get the infection by touching somebody else's ringworm, sharing towels, etc. Animals also spread this disease if you touch an animal with a ringworm infection and touch your feet afterwards you may become infected. It is also possible to get athletes foot through soil in which the fungus is present. However athlete's foot that is caught from other humans tends to be highly infectious whereas it is not as likely to be caught from animals or soil.

What are the signs and symptoms of athlete's foot?
The symptoms of athlete's foot include:

§ persistent itching of the skin on the sole of the foot or between the toes
§ feet are inflamed and sensitive to the touch
§ flaking, peeling, or cracking skin
§ a circular, red, raised rash with elevated edges

Athlete's foot can affect anyone, guys or girls, if their feet tend to sweat a lot. However people who suffer from diabetes or obesity are more susceptible to the infection.

How do you prevent athlete's foot?
Athlete's foot is not an easy infection to prevent because it is contracted in places where bare feet come into contact with fungus, such as, showers, swimming pools and dressing rooms. However the most important factor in the prevention of athlete's foot is good foot hygiene. Make sure you keep the feet clean and as free of sweat as is possible. Also make sure the area is dry by using a clean towel and the use of foot powder is also recommended.

Athlete's foot is a common infection; however it can be avoided through proper care and attention. If you would like to read more information on the subject of athlete's foot, including the treatment and cures, please make sure you check out my athletes foot blog


Paul Simpson is the creator and author of his very own Athletes foot blog which contains tons of information regarding this condition, including the treatment, cures and any other important information. To visit his blog click here: Athletes foot blog.