How to successfully treat and prevent athlete's foot
The English name for foot fungus is "athlete's foot." This aptly describes the condition, as athlete's foot is particularly common in people who exercise frequently. Tinea pedum, also known as Tinea pedis, is the most common skin fungus in humans. Occasionally, however, skin fungi from the Candida genus (yeast fungi) can also trigger an infection. Almost one in three people is affected by such a fungal infection at least once in their lives. The name "athlete's foot" is not entirely accurate, by the way. In addition to the feet and toenails, skin fungi can also affect the head, face, groin, and intimate areas.
Why is athlete's foot so common?
Its spread is promoted by external circumstances. Athletes often wear shoes that are too tight and do not allow enough air to reach the feet. Physical activity generates sweat and heat. These are ideal conditions for the growth of fungi. In addition, athletes frequently use communal changing rooms and showers, which facilitates the spread of athlete's foot. All people constantly shed small skin flakes. If a person has a skin fungus, these skin flakes contain fungal spores that are spread through contact infection.
How does an infection occur?
Normally, human skin has a natural protective barrier. This forms a thin layer with a slightly acidic pH, which kills spores and, together with the associated skin flora, gives them no chance to settle. However, the situation is different if the skin is injured, whether by skin cracks or sore spots that frequently occur during intense training. The wounds represent open gateways through which fungal spores can penetrate, settle, and multiply. Skin fungi of the Tinea genus feed on keratin, which is an important component of the skin. Those of the Candida genus, on the other hand, prefer sugar. A weakened immune system or diseases such as diabetes can additionally promote the infection.
What are the symptoms?
The incubation period for a skin fungal infection is, on average, 1 to 2 weeks. The first symptoms appear as reddened, flaky skin combined with intense itching. If left untreated, the infection continues to spread. The spaces between the toes or other warm and moist areas are particularly often affected. As the fungi damage the skin, cracks form, through which bacteria, such as streptococci, can penetrate the skin and cause secondary infections. These can trigger erysipelas and high fever.
How can you prevent athlete's foot?
It starts with choosing the right footwear. Athletic shoes should be comfortable and breathable. They should not be too tight to avoid pressure points and blisters. Dermatologists recommend cotton or wool as sock materials because these natural materials absorb sweat and keep feet dry. It is also important to remove calluses with Mosadal, as this also removes the fungi.
After training, athletic shoes should be thoroughly dried. If desired, they can also be treated with a disinfectant spray. Socks should be washed at high temperatures or with an antibacterial detergent or fabric softener. As part of personal hygiene, it is advisable to wash your feet after exercise and dry them thoroughly, especially the spaces between the toes, which are often neglected. Those who are prone to athlete's foot can also treat their feet with antifungals. These are fungicidal agents that are often available over-the-counter at pharmacies. These preparations are offered as sprays, powders, or creams and are applied to the affected areas of the skin. They serve to prevent or avoid reinfection.
All items that come into contact with the infected skin should be washed at a minimum of 60 °C: socks, towels, bedding, bath mats, and similar items. For certain textiles that cannot be washed at high temperatures, antibacterial detergents or fabric softeners can be used.
When should a dermatologist be consulted?
Visiting a family doctor is appropriate if severe symptoms occur or if the treatment methods mentioned above are unsuccessful. It is not always certain that reddened, itchy, and flaky skin areas are caused by a fungal infection. In 50 percent of all cases, another disease, such as psoriasis, is the underlying cause. Only a specialist can make the correct diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment methods. Self-treatment in the case of a misdiagnosis represents a waste of time and money and can ultimately even endanger one's health.
