Athlete’s Foot: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Treat It

Athlete’s Foot: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Treat It

Athlete’s foot (Tinea Pedis) is one of the most common skin infections affecting the feet and despite the name, you don’t need to be an athlete to get it. Anyone can develop it, and it often appears when the skin becomes warm, moist, and enclosed inside shoes for long periods.

The fungus responsible, usually dermatophytes, feeds on dead skin cells, which is why it spreads so easily in areas where moisture and sweat build up.

Common Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot.

You may notice:

• Itching, burning, or stinging between the toes
• Dry, flaky, or cracked skin
• Redness or inflammation
• White, soggy skin between the toes
• Peeling skin or areas or soreness
• Small blisters or areas of soreness
• A musty or unpleasant odour

These symptoms can range from mild to very uncomfortable. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the toenails, causing thick, discoloured nails that are much harder to treat.

How Does Athlete’s Foot Spread?

Athlete’s foot is contagious and often spreads through:

• Shared changing rooms or swimming pool areass
• Walking barefoot on communal floors
• Sharing socks or towels
• Wearing tight or non-breathable footwear
• Excessive sweating
• Not drying your feet properly

The fungus loves moist, warm conditions, so sweaty socks and enclosed shoes gives it the perfect environment.

Effective Treatment for Athlete’s Foot

1 Antifungal Creams or Sprays

Over-the-counter antifungal treatments are often the first line of defence. Used consistently, they can clear up most mild to moderate cases.

2 Keep Feet Dry and Clean

Thorough drying between the toes is essential. Fungus struggles to grow on dry skin.

3 Use Separate Towels for Your Feet

This prevents spreading the infection to other areas of the body – and to others in your home.

4 Change Socks Daily (or More Often If You Sweat)

Breathable cotton or moisture-wicking socks help reduce moisture build up.

5 Wear Breathable Shoes

Leather, mesh or open footwear helps keep moisture from build-up.

6 See a Foot Care Professional

If symptoms persist, spread, or recur frequently, professional help is recommended. A practitioner can check secondary infections, advise on treatment, and address issues such as cracked skin or damaged nails.

Preventing Athlete’s Foot From Coming Back

Prevention is just as important as treatment. To reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Always dry between your toes after washing
• Rotate shoes to let them air out
• Use antifungal foot powder if you’re prone to sweating
• Wear flip-flops in communal showers or changing rooms
• Change socks after exercising
• Keep toenails trimmed to prevent fungal spread

Good foot hygiene goes a long way.

When to Seek Professional Help

Speak to a foot health practitioner or podiatrist if:

• Symptoms don’t improve after 2 weeks of treatment
• The infection is severe or spreading
• You have diabetes or circulation issues
• The skin is cracked, sore, or bleeding
• Your toenails are becoming thick or discoloured

Early treatment prevents complications and reduces the chance of the infection returning.

Healthy Feet, Healthy Life

Athlete’s foot may be common, but it doesn’t have to be a recurring issue. With simple hygiene habits, early treatment, and the right professional advice, you can keep your feet healthy, comfortable, and fungus-free.