Chicago Mobile Foot Care Limited
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What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the upper layer of the skin of the foot, especially when it is warm, moist, and irritated. The same fungus may also grow on other parts of the body. However, the feet are most commonly affected, especially between the toes. Despite the name, athlete’s foot can happen to anyone. It can result in flaky skin, cracking, and itchiness on the soles of the foot and between the toes.
Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
The most common symptom is cracked, flaking, peeling skin between the toes or on the side of the foot. Other symptoms can include:
- Red and itchy skin
- Burning or stinging pain
- Blisters that ooze or get crusty
If the fungus spreads to your nails, they can become discolored, thick, and even crumble.
How Long Does Athlete’s Foot Last?
Most mild cases of athlete’s foot clear up within 2 weeks. But treatment can go for several weeks or longer if the infection is more serious or affects the toenails.
Athlete’s Foot Treatments
Treatment for athlete’s foot depends on its type and severity. Most cases can be treated at home with antifungal medicines. They kill the fungus or slow its growth. You also need to keep your feet clean and dry.
Over-the-counter antifungal lotions, creams, or sprays usually are used first. These include clotrimazole (Lotriderm) and tolnaftate (Tinactin).
Prescription antifungals may be tried if non-prescription medicines don’t help. Some prescription antifungals are put directly on the skin. Others are taken as a pill.
If you have a severe infection that doesn’t improve, your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills. They are used only for severe cases.
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