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Athlete’s Foot

Our board-certified dermatologists provide reliable treatments for athlete’s foot.

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Athlete’s Foot

Our board-certified dermatologists provide reliable treatments for athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s Foot

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot, sometimes medically referred to as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that causes the skin to crack, itch, burn, flake off, or even form small, red blisters or sores. The specific fungal that causes athlete’s foot – dermatophytes – thrives in warm, moist environments, which is why this common skin condition most often affects the feet and toes. 

Questions

Athlete’s Foot FAQs

Are you interested in learning more about athlete’s foot and how we treat this common skin condition at Cumberland Skin? Our board-certified dermatologists answer the most common questions regarding athlete’s foot treatment in Hendersonville, TN. 

Athlete’s foot is caused by a specific class of fungal organisms called dermatophytes. These fungal organisms flourish in warm, damp environments, which is why athlete’s foot is often found in gym locker rooms, showers, and pool areas. 

Athlete’s foot is contagious. You can contract the fungus that causes athlete’s foot through direct contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces contaminated with the fungus, such as a shower floor in a locker room or gym. 

Additionally, athlete’s foot can spread to another part of the body through direct contact, so it’s important to get it treated as soon as you notice symptoms in order to keep the infection localized.

In many cases, the symptoms of athlete’s foot are hard to ignore. This common skin condition, which most often shows up on the feet and toes, may show the following symptoms: 

  • Itching and burning skin on the feet and between the toes.
  • Dry skin that may be cracked and peeling.
  • Thick, discolored, and frail toenails.
  • Toenails that pull away from the nail bed.
  • Blisters on the feet that itch.
  • Red ulcers or sores on the feet (may produce an odor).
  • Skin of the feet looks raw and tender.

Generally, the symptoms of athlete’s foot are very uncomfortable and may interfere with daily activities, such as exercising. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, we recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist for a professional diagnosis and athlete’s foot treatment plan. 

There are many different types of athlete’s foot. These include:

  • Toe Web Infection
  • Moccasin Infection
  • Vesicular Infection
  • Ulcerative Infection

The various types of athlete’s foot often present different symptoms, which your dermatologist will use to help identify the type of athlete’s foot you have. For example, a toe web infection most often affects the skin between the toes, while a moccasin infection shows up on the soles of the feet. 

While athlete’s foot is common and easily spreads from person to person, there are simple steps you can take to prevent the contraction of athlete’s foot. This includes: 

  • Always avoid walking barefoot around shared spaces (locker rooms, pools, showers, etc.).
  • Allow the feet to breathe and completely dry by wearing breathable footwear.
  • Wash your feet daily to prevent bacteria and fungal growth.
  • Wear breathable socks, such as cotton, or socks that absorb moisture.
  • If your feet are sweaty or wet, change your socks more often.
  • Use an antifungal or absorbent powder on your feet and in your shoes.
  • Never share footwear or socks.

At Cumberland Skin in Hendersonville, TN, we use a couple different treatment methods to clear up athlete’s foot and help our patients find relief from this irritating skin condition. This includes over-the-counter (OTC) treatments and prescription treatments. 

OTC treatments often include recommendations for antifungal powders, sprays, ointments, and lotions, which work well at clearing up and treating athlete’s foot. 

However, when a particularly stubborn case of athlete’s foot is not optimally treated with OTC methods, your dermatologist may recommend a prescription-based treatment – most likely an antifungal – to clear up the infection.

Photos

Athlete’s Foot Photos

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Clear Up Your Skin with Athlete’s Foot Treatment in Hendersonville, TN

Are you ready to find relief from the irritating itchy feet and flaky skin caused by athlete’s foot? At Cumberland Skin, our board-certified dermatologists are experts in skin care and helping our patients clear up this common skin condition with effective athlete’s foot treatment. 

Schedule your athlete’s foot treatment in Hendersonville, Tennessee, by requesting an appointment online or by calling 615-824-7491.

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Have questions or concerns? Please call us at 615-824-7491

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