Athlete's Foot

What is Athlete's Foot?

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection of the feet caused by microscopic fungi (dermatophytes). Highly contagious, it spreads easily in warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, locker rooms, communal showers, and saunas.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Contact with contaminated surfaces (pools, locker rooms, showers)
• Wearing closed, tight, or poorly ventilated shoes
• Frequently wet or poorly dried feet
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes or circulatory disorders
• Excessive foot sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Sharing towels, socks, or shoes

Symptoms

• Intense itching, burning, and stinging between the toes
• Red, scaly, cracked, or peeling skin
• Blisters (small fluid-filled vesicles)
• Whitish, macerated skin between the toes
• Persistent unpleasant odour
• Possible spread to the nails (onychomycosis) or palms of the hands

Podiatric Treatment

Your podiatrist at Clinique Claire Fontaine makes an accurate diagnosis and tailors treatment to the severity of the infection:

• Prescription of antifungal agents — topical (creams, powders, sprays) or oral depending on the case
• Cleaning and debridement of infected areas
• Treatment of complications (fissures, bacterial superinfections)
• Nail assessment to detect associated onychomycosis
• Personalized hygiene advice to prevent spreading and recurrence

Prevention

To prevent athlete's foot, it is essential to thoroughly dry your feet after bathing or showering — especially between the toes — wear sandals in wet public areas, change socks daily, and choose breathable footwear. Regular visits to your podiatrist allow for early detection and prompt treatment of any recurrence.