Athletes foot is caused by a type of fungus and is extremely contagious. It is usually spread through damp floors in public places such as gyms, swimming pools, and bath houses. It can also be spread by touching the feet of a person who has athletes foot, or through carpets or bath mats in your own home. The fungus is virtually impossible to avoid. No one is completely immune to it, and it can be spread to other people even if you don’t know you have it.
The symptoms of athletes foot include redness, itching, burning, cracked skin, and blisters. Over-the-counter creams and sprays can help alleviate the symptoms but may not eliminate the fungus completely. If left untreated, athletes foot can become dangerous. The fungus can cause thick, yellow finger and toenails and can even lead to nail loss. It can also spread to other parts of the body causing ringworm and jock itch.
For those with weakened immune systems, athletes foot can be even more harmful. Bacteria can grow in the irritated or cracked skin and potentially cause serious infections. Bacterial infections related to athletes foot are even more dangerous for diabetics. These infections can lead to nerve damage which can make it more difficult to recognize the symptoms of other foot disorders.
It is extremely important to be able to recognize the symptoms of athletes foot. Spread of the fungus can be slowed by showering regularly, wearing clean, dry socks, and by wearing shoes that are made of breathable material. Over-the-counter medications can relieve the symptoms. They can not, however, eliminate the fungus that causes athletes foot or prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. The only way to completely eradicate the fungus is to obtain a prescription medication from a doctor such as a podiatrist or a dermatologist.