Athlete’s Foot

They say your ears start to burn when someone’s talking about you. They say that if you don’t like to stay in one place then you have itchy feet. So what if you can feel the burning and the itching, but both occur on your feet? What does that mean? That people are talking about your restless nature? Perhaps. But a more likely explanation of this discomfort is that you have a case of athlete’s foot. Now I know what you’re thinking, “That can’t be right, I haven’t played any sport in years. Must be something else”. The truth is, anyone can develop athlete’s foot, it is not exclusively for the keen sportsmen and women among us.

Athlete’s foot is a condition derived from a fungus. You might find that hard to believe, but a quick science lesson on trichophyton will tell you that yes, it is a fungus that thrives in warm and moist conditions, hence why it is prominent between toes and around the groin area. Given the right conditions it will grow, and continue to grow until the conditions are improved and made less favourable.

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and you might not experience, or notice them at first. From itching, stinging and burning of the feet, to blisters that can develop into sores if neglected.

It is fair to say that athlete’s fFoot is a condition that is very much in the patient’s own hands as well as on their feet. If treated early enough, you can avoid complications that would result in a trip to your doctor.

Because it is a fungus, it will attack the body in weak areas, so if you protect these areas then you can rid yourself of the condition. The key is in proper preparation and proper hygiene. Simple stuff. Clean and dry socks and shoes, and change them regularly. Be sure to choose breathable materials when buying socks and shoes. It’s all about creating a comfortable environment for you and your body, and an unsuitable environment for the fungus.

Of course, there are some medicated foot powders and anti-fungal creams on the market which, if used correctly, will clear up your athlete’s foot. These may take up to 1-2 weeks to take effect, however, and of course you have to be careful that the product is suitable for you body and won’t do more harm than good.

In extreme circumstances, where the patient’s condition has worsened, perhaps due to it being ignored or handled inappropriately, then a course of antibiotics may be required. This however, can all be avoided. Our feet are one of the most neglected parts of our body, which seems wrong considering we use them so much and depend on them for so much in our lives. Without fully functioning feet our lives are very restricted. It’s simple. Pay attention to your feet, treat them well and they will serve you well for the rest of your life.