Athlete’s FootTreatment in Bellevue, WA

Athlete’s or those who are regularly active often experience athlete’s foot at least once in their lives. This fungal skin condition can be bothersome, painful, and hinder your athletic performance. For a quick diagnosis and treatment, contact Pinnacle Dermatology & Skin Rejuvenation today!

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, toenails, and sometimes, the hands. This condition is contagious and can be stubborn. It is caused by the tinea fungus, which lives in warm, moist environments such as those commonly found in locker rooms, showers, and swimming pool areas.

Common symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

• Stinging, itching, or burning sensations on the soles of your feet or between your toes.
• Itchy blisters on the feet.
• Peeling, cracking, or raw skin.
• Thick, crumbling, or discolored toenails.
• Dry skin.

Who Can Get Athlete’s Foot?

Anyone of any age can get athlete’s foot, though certain behaviors may increase your risk. These include walking in public places barefoot, sharing socks, towels, or shoes with a person who is infected, having wet feet for long periods of time (including sweaty feet), or wearing shoes that are too tight. You can become infected with the tinea fungus, which causes athlete’s foot, though touching contaminated surfaces or coming into direct contact with an individual with this condition.

Individuals with a weakened immune system or diabetes who believe that they may have athlete’s foot should contact their doctor for treatment, as this condition may cause complications.

Athlete’s Foot Treatment Options

There are many different treatment options for athlete’s foot. Dr. Gray will work with you to determine the best treatment program for you depending on the severity of your condition and your lifestyle. Possible courses of treatment may include:

Over-the-counter Medications: There are a number of OTC antifungal topical medications, including miconazole, terbinafine, clotrimazole, and more.

Prescription Medications: Dr. Gray may prescribe you a prescription-strength medication if OTC medications are not strong enough. These may include:

• Prescription-strength miconazole or clotrimazole.
• Oral antifungal medications such as fluconazole or Itraconazole.
• Topical steroids to help reduce inflammation.
• Oral antibiotics if you have developed a bacterial infection due to blisters or raw skin.

Tips to Prevent Athlete’s Foot

If you are prone to athlete’s foot, there are some steps you can take to help prevent it. These include the following:

• Wash your feet using soap and water every day, and make sure to thoroughly dry them.
• Regularly wash your socks, towels, and bedding.
• Use antifungal powder on your feet.
• Change your socks regularly when your feet are sweating.
• Wear shoes made out of breathable materials.