Our article will tell you the whole truth about foot fungus.
You know that:
- more than 1, 5 million mushrooms and 69, 000 species are known today. More than 500 of them are pathogenic to humans;
- paleontological excavations show that the fungi probably existed in the Pre-Cambrian period, that is, somewhere a billion hundreds of millions of years ago;
- according to researchers, one fifth of the world's population is affected by fungal diseases;
- immunity to the fungus is not developed: we get sick from it as often as we are infected;
- the fungus is extremely resistant. A curious fact is known: scientists took slippers from a patient with a fungus and placed them in a warehouse. And after 20 years, the fungus spores have remained completely unharmed.
What is foot fungus?
Foot fungus (foot mycosis) is the most common and easily contracted skin disease in public places: in saunas, showers, gyms and gyms, on the beach, in the swimming pool. Furthermore, infection with a fungus usually occurs in the family: through shared shoes, less often through other household items.
Some simple steps to prevent foot fungus:
- do not walk barefoot in public places: in the pool, sauna, beach;
- use only a personal towel, your own scissors and a comb;
- don't wear someone else's shoes;
- change socks and socks every day;
- after washing, dry your feet, especially between your toes;
- treat dystrophic altered nails (they are more susceptible to the introduction of infectious agents); avoid microtrauma and calluses, which act as "gateways" to infections;
- avoid dryness or excessive humidity of the feet, and in case of excessive sweating and diaper rash, use a special cream or powder / talc.
What are the signs of foot fungus?
Some infected people do not show any signs of the fungus. Others think they only have dry skin on their feet, as the fungus is only manifested by peeling skin. Most of the time, fungus symptoms are reduced to itching and burning. The skin flakes off, sometimes even cracks, which causes pain and blood. And very rarely blisters appear. Symptoms may appear not only between the toes and the soles of one or both feet, but also on the undersides of the toes, the sides of the feet, and even the arch.
There are three types of foot fungus:
- plantar form (squamous hyperkeratosis), in which the soles of the feet are affected;
- interdigital (intertriginous) form, in which the skin between the fingers is damaged;
- the dyshidrotic form is the rarest, in which itchy and inflamed blisters appear on the skin.
The discomfort associated with fungal symptoms significantly impairs quality of life, so getting rid of itchiness, redness and burning is the top priority.
The main factors that contribute to the development of the disease:
- weakened immunity (at risk - young children and the elderly);
- vascular diseases, varicose veins, scratches and wounds, ulcerations in the extremities;
- taking certain medications: various groups of antibiotics, cortisone-based drugs, certain contraceptives.
Is foot fungus contagious?
Foot fungus is caused by an infectious agent called a fungus, so it is potentially infectious. However, for unknown reasons, some people do not develop the fungus when they come into contact with contaminated objects.
How is foot fungus treated?
It is important to note the appearance of the fungus over time. In no case should you bear the symptoms: you must choose the right treatment and also observe hygiene.
There are two parts to treating a fungus. First, you must create conditions in which the fungus is less convenient to grow. That means keeping your feet clean and dry.
The shoes, made of water repellent materials, wet the feet and create the best conditions for the fungus to grow. To prevent this, wear cotton socks that absorb excess moisture.
Remember that the use of traditional medicine and self-medication can only aggravate the situation and cause a relapse.
The second component of treatment is the use of antifungals. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your choice of medication. Usually, treatment should be continued for 2 to 4 weeks. In no case should treatment be discontinued after symptoms have disappeared.
At the pharmacy you will find a lot of antifungal ointments and creams. The most effective use of two-component drugs, consisting of two drugs: clotrimazole (a highly effective agent that destroys various fungi) and beclomethasone. You can find out more about the treatment here. Treatment of fungal infections takes at least 2 weeks, but removal of symptoms such as itching, redness and burning occurs within the first day.
In more severe cases or if the infection persists, antifungal pills may be needed. Before you start taking these pills, you will need to have a blood test to assess the condition of your liver.
If the infection has spread to the nails, they too must be treated, otherwise they can become a new source of infection. The presence of nail fungus can extend the treatment period needed up to 3-4 months after taking the pills.
How to treat foot fungus during pregnancy?
Pregnant women can use clotrimazole cream twice a day for 2-3 weeks to treat foot fungus. Antifungal pills are not recommended due to the possible effect on the fetus. Be sure to check with your obstetrician-gynecologist before using any medications during pregnancy.
When should you seek medical attention?
If you notice redness, swelling, bleeding, or if the infection does not respond to conventional medications, see your doctor. If there is a bacterial infection, you may need to take pills. Also see your doctor if you have nail fungus, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.
What are the possible complications of foot fungus?
If left untreated, the fungus can spread to other parts of the body or to other people, including family members. Infection can occur in the feet, nails, toenails, hands or, less commonly, elsewhere. This will lead to a longer debilitating treatment.
The risk factors are:
- advanced age;
- diseases that weaken the immune system;
- people with diabetes.
Which Doctor Can Help Cure Foot Fungus?
Skin conditions are treated by a dermatologist. Alternatively, you can consult your GP, general practitioner, pediatrician and mycologist.