Athlete's Foot Specialist

What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?

In its early stages, athlete’s foot causes a red, scaly rash. As your fungal infection develops, you may experience worsening symptoms that can include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Blisters
• Ulcers
• Severe dryness

The blisters or ulcers that can form when you have athlete’s foot can open up, ooze, and crust over. These sores can make slipping on socks and shoes become unbearably painful.

Usually, the symptoms you have with an athlete’s foot infection begin between your toes. As the infection progresses, it can spread to the sole of your foot and even start progressing up the sides of your foot. You can experience athlete’s foot symptoms in one or both feet.

How did I get athlete’s foot?

The same fungal invaders that cause ringworm and jock itch also lead to athlete’s foot. You can come into contact with these fungal organisms and ultimately develop an athlete’s foot infection by walking barefoot in damp communal areas, such as a gym locker room, sauna, or swimming pool deck. Other factors that can increase your risk of athlete’s foot include:

• Sharing socks or shoes with someone who has an athlete’s foot infection
• Having a weakened immune system
• Having open sores on your feet

Your chances of suffering from a painful athlete’s foot infection also go up if you regularly wear damp, sweaty socks or shoes.

Do I need treatment for athlete's foot?

Yes! Without prompt treatment, your athlete’s foot can continue to worsen and even spread to other areas of your body. The dedicated podiatry team at Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists evaluates your feet carefully and design your personalized athlete’s foot treatment plan, which can include:

• Epsom salt soaks
• Topical antifungal creams
• Oral antifungal medications

Your dedicated podiatrist even counsels you on lifestyle changes you can make to decrease your risk of a future athlete’s foot infection, so won’t have to worry about ongoing painful foot infections.

You don’t have to struggle with an athlete’s foot infection another day with the help of the podiatrists at Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists. Schedule your exam online or over the phone.