Give athlete's foot the boot
You don't have to be an athlete to get athlete's foot. All it takes is close contact with someone infected with the fungus or a contaminated towel or floor.
The good news is that "most cases resolve with the use of antifungal creams found in drugstores," says board-certified podiatrist
Paul Quintavalle, MD. However, there are exceptions.
Symptoms that don't go away within two weeks warrant a visit to a physician, and severe or chronic cases may require treatment with oral prescription medication. Dr. Quintavalle stresses, "People with diabetes or peripheral vascular disease need to contact their doctor immediately."
He also says there are several preventative steps individuals can take:
- Keep feet clean and dry.
- Wear cotton socks to absorb sweat, and change them twice daily.
- Use talcum or antifungal powder.
- Wear sandals that allow feet to breathe.
- Wear aqua socks in public pools and showers.