Athlete's Foot
diagnosis, treatment and medication
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Athlete's Foot Treatment FAQ
Can a Dermatologist treat Athlete's Foot at DermCafé?
Definitely! Athletes foot, or tinea pedis, is a very common skin condition and easily treatable with medications
What is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that most people get from walking barefoot in moist public places, like a swimming pool deck or locker room. It can result in flaky skin, cracking, and itchiness on the soles of the foot and between the toes.
Who gets Athlete’s Foot?
Despite the name, athlete’s foot can happen to anyone!
How can I prevent Athlete's Foot?
To reduce the chance of catching athlete’s foot, dermatologists recommend that you take the following precautions:
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Wear shower shoes, flip-flops, or sandals when walking around pools, gyms, shower or locker areas, and hotel rooms. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot may be on the floor. Even when taking a shower in a gym, it is important to wear shower shoes or flip flops.
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Even if you have not gone barefoot in public areas, keep your feet dry. This fungus thrives in warm, moist areas such as the one created inside hot, sweaty shoes. Wearing sandals or flip-flops helps when it’s hot outside. Shoes that are made from synthetic materials like plastic and rubber are more likely to cause sweating.
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Wash your feet every day with soap and completely dry them after washing.
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Wear socks made of natural fabrics or fabrics that dry quickly or wick moisture away from the skin. Also, be sure to change your socks every day and more often when your socks get wet.
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Alternate the shoes you wear each day, if possible, to ensure shoes are dry when they are put on.
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If you live with someone who has athlete’s foot, don’t share towels, linens, or shoes. Wear shoes in areas where infected feet have been.
How is it treated?
Treatment will get rid of the infection and prevent it from spreading. Options includes the following:
Foot Hygiene Take proper care of your feet:
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Gently wash your feet often (at least daily) with soap and water.
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Completely dry all areas, especially between the toes.
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Put a dusting of antifungal foot powder on your feet or in your shoes to absorb moisture.
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Change your shoes and socks often.
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Wash your hands after treating your feet.
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Avoid walking barefoot in public, especially in locker rooms and public showers. This will stop the infection from spreading to others.
Medication:
Antifungal medicine is the main treatment. Treatment may last 1 to 2 months.
What is DermCafé?
Connect with a DermCafé Dermatologist today!
We’re a Digital Dermatology Centre that aims to provide all Canadians with equitable, accessible, convenient and modern dermatology care.
Simply submit your symptom info and skin photos online and connect with an online dermatologist at your convenience.
Visit our How This Work page to learn more.
Step 1
Submit your Symptom Info and Photos online
Step 2
Book your Online Appointment
Step 4
Access Your Online Results Anytime
Choose your preferred Pharmacy for medication delivery
Download DermCafé Info Sheets, bloodwork forms and Sick Notes, and book follow-up appointments when needed
Step 3
Audio/Video Visit with Your Dermatologist
OHIP/MSP-covered visits require a Referral by another Physician. Simply book a Video Visit with our Family Doctor first
