Athlete's foot is an irritating skin infection that can develop on your foot. One of the common symptoms of this infection is the creation of uncomfortable blisters. Fortunately, athlete's foot generally responds well to treatment and should not prevent you from continuing your normal physical activities.
Definition
Athlete's foot is an infection caused by fungus that develops on your foot. It is similar to fungal infections that affect other parts of the body, including ringworm and jock itch. The condition usually appears in moist areas, such as between your toes, but can also develop on other parts of the foot. Athlete's foot causes itching, burning, stinging and the formation of blisters on your foot.
Causes
Mold-like fungi cause athlete's foot. These fungi thrive in moist, warm areas. Damp socks and tight shoes are able to create the perfect environment for fungi to grow. After the top layer of your skin is infected, your body will produce excessive amounts of skin cells. The increase in cells creates thick and scaly skin. Usually, the fungus will spread and as it does, more of your skin is infected.
Athlete's foot is also contagious and can be acquired via contact with an infected source. It can be spread through skin-to-skin contact with another human, contact with an object carrying the fungus or from contact with an infected animal.
Symptoms
Athlete's foot has a variety of symptoms. You will suffer from some of these, but may not have all of them. One common symptom is the formation of blisters on your foot. Blisters are the result of the presence of moisture on your foot and the friction created by your foot rubbing against your shoe. Most often, these blisters will become itchy. Other symptoms include stinging and burning on the soles of your feet and in between your toes, cracking and peeling skin, excessive dryness and thick, discolored toenails.
Treatment
Over-the-counter medication is usually the first line of treatment for athlete's foot. If this fails, you should consult your doctor, who can prescribe a topical or oral medication. The side effects of oral medication include rashes, gastrointestinal problems and liver abnormalities. In addition, they may interfere with other medications.
Prognosis
Athlete's foot usually responds well to treatment. It may come back, however. You should make the necessary precautions to prevent future infections.
Prevention
Keep your feet clean and dry. This includes drying your feet thoroughly after swimming or bathing and changing your socks often. Wash your feet with soap and water, preferably twice a day. Use anti-fungal or drying powders if you feel you may be susceptible.
