Healthy Feet: Guide To Prevent Athlete's Foot & Early Signs

Some might think athlete's foot is nothing more than a rash. But this rash is quite unsightly, and the source is an overgrowth of fungi. The fungus can eat your healthy skin and nail tissue away, causing all kinds of symptoms, which you'll learn about in this guide. But the first thing you may want to consider is a few ways to prevent athlete's foot from even starting.

Simple Preventative Measures

Studies show that anywhere from 15 to 25 percent of all people are likely to have or have had athlete's food at some point in their lives. This is a very common problem that is highly contagious, which is the reason you should do your best to prevent it with the following:

  • Keep your feet dry and clean. Be sure to dry in between your toes every time you get wet, including after you finished swimming.
  • Try to wear sandals more often.
  • Wear naturally-made shoes or socks that will allow your feet to breath, like wool, leather, cotton, and other natural fibers.
  • Change your socks at least twice a day.
  • Let your shoes air out at least 24 hours before wearing them again, or use different shoes daily.
  • Wear pool shoes or avoid going to public pools.
  • Pay extra attention to the type of shoe that you buy. Make sure they fit perfectly and are wide enough for your toes to breathe.
  • Do not share socks or other footwear.

You can always talk to your podiatrist about the best shoes for you, as you may be a special case, especially if you have hammertoes or flat soles.

Early Signs of Athlete's Foot

Consider paying attention to the following symptoms because it is easier for your podiatrist to deal with athlete's foot in its early stages. Remember that some of these symptoms will vary from person to person but may help you identify the ailment before it becomes a full-blown fungus overgrowth.

Symptoms you should look for:

  • You might see some peeling, cracking, or scaling around your feet.
  • There may be some redness on your skin.
  • You might notice blisters.
  • Your feet might feel itchy or as if they were burning.
  • Areas on your feet or in between your toes might feel soft, moist, and pale.
  • You may feel irritation or constant dryness.
  • There may be a slight odor coming from your feet.

Be sure to talk to your podiatrist, like those at Laurel Podiatry Associates, LLC, about these symptoms so that he or she can help confirm your suspicions. Remember not to delay, as this infection can spread throughout your feet, and it can lead to severe peeling, malodor, and could even infect your nails.


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