FOOTGURU

  FUNGUS SKIN INFECTIONS OF THE FOOT
(Dermatophytosis)

   Fungus infections of the skin of the foot can occur at any time of year, but are more prevalent in the warmer months.  This slow-growing infection will begin and spread where there is a moist, warm, and dark environment.  The area may be itchy and/or dry and scaly and there may be redness.

  Treatment is intended to stop growth of the fungus organism.  Treatment should be continued even after the symptoms are reduced or gone.  Following these steps will help to prevent recurrence of the infection:

1. Wear clean, dry, light-colored socks (no nylons).  Natural fabrics or blends are usually best.
2. Change shoes and socks frequently.
3. Allow shoes to dry out before wearing them.  If your shoes get wet, change them as soon as possible.
4. Use powder frequently in shoes and socks.  This may be either an over-the-counter anti-fungal powder prescribed by your Podiatrist.  The powder sets up barriers between the foot and the sock, the sock and the shoe.
5. After bathing, dry feet well.
6. Remove dry scales, if present, with a soft brush or pumice stone.
7. A lotion or cream may be prescribed to be used sparingly twice daily.  Over-the-counter creams such as Lamisil or Lotrimin work well.

  If this regimen is closely followed, clearing should occur within a week.  Treatment should be continued for several days after clearing.  After the skin condition is gone, continue to use powder.

Fungus infections may come back periodically and the local medication prescribed may need to be changed.  Consult your podiatrist in this case to insure continuing good foot health.

  Fungus  Fungus infections of the foot and nails spread in warm, moist
areas.  “Athlete’s foot” makes skin itchy and scaly, nails thick and white.

All content © 2002 Dr. Harry Hlavac   All rights reserved. 
Reproduction, copying, saving, or the alteration of any content on this site
 is not allowed unless specifically authorized in writing by Dr. Harry Hlavac.
 

All content © 2002 Dr. Harry Hlavac   All rights reserved. 
Reproduction, copying, saving, or the alteration of any content on this site
 is not allowed unless specifically authorized in writing by Dr. Harry Hlavac.