How does one get a fungus infection in the toes and skin (athlete’s foot) and how can it be treated?

Fungus infections of the skin and nails are caused by microscopic organisms, fungi that contaminate skin and nails.  Fungus gets introduced into the skin and nails through contact with contaminated objects. Walking barefoot on a contaminated surface or exposure to pedicure equipment is one way of developing fungus infections. Fungus grows and thrives in moist damp environments. Once fungus contamination occurs, the infection can cause peeling, scaling and itchiness of skin as well as water blisters.

Onychomycosis is the name for any fungal nail infection. The nails become discolored, thickened and brittle. Toenail infections are commonly linked with athlete’s foot.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a fungus infection by a doctor is usually made by correlating the clinical appearance as well as the symptoms the patient is experiencing. If the doctor wants to make sure what is causing the symptoms, he or she may take a scraping of the skin or a fragment of the nail may be sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Treatment

Since most fungal infections are surface infections, they are usually antifungal treatments applied directly to the infected area (topical treatments). 
There are a variety of treatments available in the forms of creams, lotions and medicated powders. If the rash covers quite a large area of skin, or affects nails or hair, then tablets may be required. 

Some treatments are available over the counter from the pharmacist, without a prescription. Examples include clotrimazole, miconazole and terbinafine. Pharmacy owned brands are also available for some of these products. 

Stronger forms of topical treatments and antifungals in tablet form are only available by prescription. These treatments are usually effective and only occasionally cause side effects. These may include skin irritation and allergic reactions. It is not unusual for the rash to return, even when it seems to have been treated. The treatment may need to be used for at least four weeks to prevent the rash from coming back. 

It is important that anyone buying over the counter treatments needs to be sure that it is a fungal infection that they have. If there is any doubt about the diagnosis, or if over the counter treatments do not work, then you should seek advice from your Podiatrist. 

How To Prevent Fungal Infections

Taking these steps may help to reduce the risk of getting fungal infections:

• Dry the skin thoroughly after bathing
• Wear loose fitting clothes
• Avoid sharing towels, hair brushes, and combs
• Change socks and tights daily- cotton socks are better( allows skin to breathe)

**Dr. Archer recommends Elon Antifungal Formula **