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Mycosis of the feet is a common and embarrassing disease. If it is left untreated for a long time, mycosis becomes a persistent, recurring problem. Who does he attack most often? How to treat it and counteract it?
Ringworm – why does it affect the feet?
Fungi attacking our feet like moist and warm places, so the most common cause of athlete’s foot is improper hygiene. Tight and rarely changed plastic shoes and socks favor the growth of fungi. Athlete’s foot often affects people who practice sports.
People suffering from diabetes, autoimmune diseases, people with hormonal disorders and people with reduced immunity are at risk. High concentrations of fungi can be found in gyms, swimming pools and saunas, therefore it is recommended to use flip-flops in these places, and after use, to thoroughly wash and dry the feet.
However, it should be borne in mind that in people who have already developed mycosis, the most common cause of the recurrence of mycosis is reinfection from own infected shoes. That is why they undertake treatment, not only should the agent be applied to the skin, but also a preparation that disinfects the shoes. The pharmacies offer ready-made 2-in-1 kits, which we use comprehensively.
The mycosis that affects our feet is mainly caused by two species of fungus:
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a fungus that causes the so-called dermatophyte mycosis of the feet. This type of mycosis attacks suddenly, is severe, but relatively easy to treat.
- Trichophyton rubrum is a fungus that causes the so-called Moccasin mycosis, which develops slowly, often returns and is more difficult to treat.
Foot mycosis often develops when the skin of our feet is compromised. A humid and warm environment favors the skin’s softness and undermines its natural protection. Abrasions and too dry skin of the feet also favor the attack of the fungus.
The first attack of the fungus is signaled by red, burning and itchy skin and a characteristic, unpleasant smell. If the infection worsens, you will notice that the skin starts to peel, thicken, and crack.
Sometimes the symptom of a fungal infection is blisters that turn red and swollen. Bursting blisters are often additionally infected with bacteria, which significantly worsens the condition of the skin. In addition, our nails can also become infected, which are very difficult to treat.
- Six home remedies for athlete’s foot
How to Treat a Fungus Infection?
If the infection is not advanced, over-the-counter topical antifungal preparations can be successfully used. There are many preparations available on the market that effectively fight athlete’s foot.
It is best to use a 2in1 kit that will not only heal infected skin, but also help to disinfect shoes. These drugs are usually used twice a day. However, it should be remembered that the treatment is long-term, it can last 4-6 weeks. It is very important to continue treatment after the visible symptoms have subsided or the mycosis will return quickly.
It is worth knowing that there are also ointments, sprays and gels on the market, which for some may be more convenient to use than creams.
If the mycosis is at an advanced stage or when it cannot be treated with over-the-counter preparations, it is worth asking a dermatologist for help, who will precisely determine the type of fungus that has attacked our feet and select the appropriate medications.
Prophylaxis, or how to take care of yourself so as not to catch athlete’s foot (more)
If we got rid of mycosis from our feet, it is worth following a few simple rules that will protect us from further unpleasantness in the future:
- keep feet clean and dry,
- after the pool or bath, carefully wipe the spaces between your fingers,
- wear airy footwear (preferably leather) in which the feet will not be squeezed,
- when you are at home or in a room where you can take off your shoes, wear only socks,
- wear cotton socks, not plastic, so that sweat can soak into them,
- use powders and powders that will help keep the foot dry,
- change your shoes often, let them air out for 24 hours after you have worn them
- always wear flip-flops in public swimming pools and showers,
- wash the socks at high temperatures and with powder,
- after fungal infection of the feet, throw away the shoes (and socks) you were wearing at the time (the fungus spores are in the shoes and will continue to infect you).
We also recommend Funfo Farm Cosmetic 3in1 foot deodorant, which prevents excessive sweating while minimizing unpleasant symptoms.