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This
is a fungal infection, usually between the toes or under the arch of the foot.
What to look for
itching and irritation
between the toes, this area may peel and crack.
rash and redness in this
area;
dry, flaking skin on the
soles of the feet.
unpleasant foot odour.
whitish, brittle, flaky
toenails in severe cases.
Athlete's foot is a common
fungal infection, and you don't have to be an athlete to get it. Athlete's foot is caused
by feet enclosed in shoes consistently.
CAUSES
The main cause is the failure
to observe necessary personal hygiene as well as not drying the area between the toes
adequately after bathing.
People who suffer from
Athletes Foot that perspire frequently are prone to develop this complaint. The situation
can become worse from wearing certain types of plastic shoes which do not allow the foot
to breath.
When the moist area between
the toes becomes sweaty, it is a breeding ground for fungus. The fungus likes to live
there and it digests the dead skin that the body sheds each day. Once the fungus starts
eating the dead skin it may cause inflammation and damage to the living skin.
It is often spread by using
the showers and toilets at the gym or changing rooms after sporting activity.
Traditional Treatment
You should treat athlete's
foot at the first sign of itchy feet or redness between your toes. Most cases of athlete's
foot can be cured with over-the-counter products and basic good hygiene.
Wash and dry your feet
thoroughly morning and evening, change your socks or stockings daily, and don't wear the
same shoes day after day. Sprinkle anti-fungal powder on your feet and in your shoes
daily. Expose your feet to sunlight and air as much as possible. Keep your feet dry so
avoid nylon socks and stockings.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Aromatherapy -
try 2 drops of
Tea Tree oil, 2 drops of
Myrrh in 15g of base cream. Mix the oils into the
base cream, and apply to the affected area twice a day. Also foot baths with
sandalwood and tea tree oil.
Patchouli and tea tree oil in a base cream.
Herbal Therapies
- a footbath of red clover & hot water can help. Also try
aloe,
calendula, comfrey compresses.
Homoeopathy -
to soothe inflammation, try an over-the-counter preparation containing Calendula.
You may recommended Graphite for this condition.
Personal Care -
Soak your infected feet in warm, salted water (1 tsp salt per cup) for 5 to 10
minutes every day. Dry your feet thoroughly, then apply a bi-carb soda paste between your
toes. You may prefer using an over-the-counter antifungal powder, cream, or spray. As long
as the area is not blistered or cracked, remove flakes of dead skin with a soft brush
before using a topical powder or ointment. Do not tear off flaking skin; you may break
nearby healthy skin and spread the infection.
PREVENTION
Always wear sandals, thongs
while using communal areas
Wear cotton socks, and
shoes that breathe;
Never share shoes, socks,
or towels.
If you get athlete's foot,
wash your socks and towels in the hottest water possible—or boil them.
Always keep feet dry during
the day
Showers at home should be
cleaned after use to avoid spreading the infection to other household members
Do not walk around barefoot
as this can also spread the infection.
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