Gipuzkoa Polyclinic warns about the increasing risk of Athlete’s Foot in public areas.

Athlete’s foot is an infection on the foot caused by fungi that is widespread worldwide and is the most frequent cutaneous mycosis, affecting 15% of the general population.

Athlete’s foot is an infection caused by fungi that mainly affects the skin between the toes and can spread along the sole of the foot. Podiatrist Jesús Molano from the Foot Unit of Policlínica Gipuzkoa and Podoactiva explains that “this condition can occur in one or both feet and tends to proliferate due to the increase in temperature and humidity generated by footwear during sports practice.” This condition represents 70% of cases of ringworm, an infection caused by fungi and is highly contagious, as it can be carried without showing symptoms.

The term “athlete’s foot” comes from the fact that athletes are particularly prone to this infection. The risk of contagion increases when walking barefoot in public showers, pools, changing rooms, and other similar places. It can also be contracted by sharing towels, shoes, or socks, or by walking barefoot on carpets, rugs, or wet floors in crowded areas such as hotel rooms. Additionally, the risk of infection increases if the feet sweat and remain damp due to the use of closed shoes.

Athlete’s foot is a highly prevalent infection worldwide and is the most common cutaneous mycosis, affecting 15% of the general population, mainly males between 20 and 50 years old. Interestingly, this condition is virtually unknown among indigenous peoples who walk barefoot. The characteristics of pathogenic fungi and the typical transmission routes of the infection are responsible for the high incidence of cases in Europe.

Diagnosis and treatment
In most cases, the doctor can diagnose athlete’s foot simply by visual inspection. However, some types of athlete’s foot can resemble dry skin or dermatitis. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, the doctor may take a skin sample from the affected area to examine it in the laboratory.

The Foot Unit of Policlínica Gipuzkoa and Podoactiva describe the main symptoms of athlete’s foot as “intense itching, irritation, and skin peeling.” “Small cracks between the toes and blisters on the sole of the foot can also appear,” warns podiatrist Jesús Molano. These signs can be particularly bothersome and, if not treated properly, could complicate foot health. “Acting quickly when detecting the first symptoms of athlete’s foot is essential for effective treatment and to avoid complications,” he adds.

To prevent athlete’s foot, the podiatrist recommends adopting certain hygiene habits: “It is essential to maintain good hygiene, use flip-flops in public spaces, dry between the toes well, control excessive sweating, use antifungal products, choose lightweight and well-ventilated footwear, and use quality socks for sports practice,” he ensures.

Currently, there are very effective treatments to combat athlete’s foot, such as antifungal ointments and gels. In more severe and recurrent cases, podiatrists may recommend oral therapy. If athlete’s foot does not improve with personal care treatments within a period of 2 to 4 weeks, or if it reappears frequently, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

During the consultation, the specialist will evaluate the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment for each case. Treatment options may include oral antifungal medications, antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections caused by scratching, and prescription topical creams to eliminate fungi. “At the first signs of skin irritation, it is important to contact our podiatrist for the appropriate treatment,” advises the expert.

The podiatrist concludes by pointing out that “the key is to be aware of the importance of caring for our feet and acting quickly at the first symptoms,” he emphasizes.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWzHHBHBGyI

Source: MiMub in Spanish

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