Itchy Feet? Athlete’s Foot Might Be the Culprit!

If your feet are itching either on the bottom or between the toes, you could have a condition known as athlete’s foot. Today Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC are sharing information regarding athlete’s foot. 

Throughout the country, private and public pools are preparing to open. Summer getaways are being planned as the end of the school year approaches, and we’re breaking out the flip-flops and picnic baskets. 

Together with summer’s humidity and heat comes an increase of cases of athlete’s foot. This is a contagious fungal infection that targets the skin on the feet, but can also spread to the armpits, groin, and hands. It’s the world’s most widespread fungal skin infection. 

The fungus that causes athlete’s foot is most often found in lockers, around swimming pools, and in showers. And while it can be a contributing factor, walking while barefoot in these areas is not the main cause of athlete’s foot.  

Because the fungus needs wetness, darkness, and warmth you’re most liable to get athlete’s foot if you wear tight socks and shoes with no ventilation while out in the heat, not changing your socks regularly, and not washing your feet properly. 

Want your feet to be fungi-free this summer? Follow these tips: 

• Wash your feet frequently using soap and water then dry them well, particularly between and around the toes.

• If your shoes or socks get wet, quickly change into a dry pair.

• Don’t share slippers, flip flops, shoes, socks, clogs, etc. with others.

• Wear shoes and boots made of a material that can breathe to avoid excessive sweating.

• When walking around a public spa or pool, wear water shoes or sandals for protection. 

Even if you follow these tips, you still may get that burning and itching feeling in your feet. Here are some symptoms you should watch out for: 

• Extreme itching in between your toes or on the sole of your feet.

• Peeling, blistering, and/or between the toes.

• Dry, flaky patches of skin on the soles and sides of the foot.

• Thick and discolored toenails that pull away from the nail bed. 

Timely treatment is important to anyone who has a compromised immune system because the affected area is more susceptible to skin infections.  

If you are experiencing these – or any other issues with your feet - contact the office of Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC to schedule an appointment. Call us today us at (301) 762-3338 or you’re your appointment online.