Our article will tell the whole truth about foot fungus.
Do you know that:
- more than 1. 5 million mushrooms and 69, 000 species are currently known. More than 500 of them are pathogenic to humans;
- paleontological excavations show that mushrooms probably existed in the Precambrian period, that is, somewhere one billion and one hundred million years ago;
- according to the researchers, one fifth of the world population is affected by fungal diseases;
- immunity to the fungus is not developed: we get sick as many times as we get infected;
- the fungus is extremely resistant. A curious fact is known: scientists took slippers from a patient with a mushroom and put them in a closet. And after 20 years, the spores of the fungus remained completely unharmed.
What is foot fungus?
Foot fungus (mycosis of the feet) is the most common skin disease that can be easily contracted in public places: in saunas, showers, gyms and gyms, on the beach, in the swimming pool. In addition, infection with a fungus often occurs in the family: through shared shoes, less often through other household items.
Some simple steps to prevent foot fungus:
- do not go barefoot in public places: in the swimming pool, sauna, beach;
- use only a personal towel, your scissors and a comb;
- do not wear someone else's shoes;
- change socks and socks every day;
- after washing, wipe your feet, especially between the toes;
- treat dystrophic altered nails (they are more susceptible to the introduction of infectious agents), avoid microtrauma and calluses, which serve as "gates of entry" for infection;
- avoid excessive dryness or moisture of the feet, and in case of excessive sweating and diaper rash, use a special cream or powder / talc.
What are the signs of foot fungus?
Some infected people show no signs of the fungus. Others think they only have dry skin on their feet, as the fungus only manifests itself with peeling of the skin. Most often, the symptoms of the fungus are reduced to itching and burning. The skin flakes off, sometimes it can even crack, causing pain and blood. And very rarely do bubbles appear. Symptoms can appear not only between the toes and on the soles of one or both feet, but also on the undersides of the toes, lateral surfaces of the foot, and even on the arch.
There are three types of foot fungus:
- plantar form (squamous-hyperkeratosis), in which the soles of the feet are affected;
- interdigital (intertriginous) form, in which the skin between the fingers is damaged;
- the dyshidrotic form is the rarest, in which itchy blisters and inflammation on the skin appear.
The discomfort associated with fungal symptoms significantly impairs quality of life, so eliminating itching, redness and burning is a top priority.
The main factors contributing to the development of the disease:
- weakened immunity (at risk - small children and the elderly);
- vascular diseases, varicose veins, scratches and wounds, frostbite of the extremities;
- taking certain drugs: various groups of antibiotics, cortisone drugs, some contraceptives.
Is foot fungus contagious?
Foot fungus is caused by an infectious agent called a fungus, so it is potentially infectious. However, for unknown reasons, some people do not develop the fungus in contact with contaminated objects.
How is foot fungus treated?
It is important to note the appearance of the fungus over time. In no case should you put up with the symptoms - you should choose the right treatment, and also observe hygiene.
There are two parts to dealing with a fungus. First, you should create conditions in which the mushroom is less convenient to grow. This means keeping your feet clean and dry.
The shoes, made of water-repellent materials, wet the feet and create the best conditions for the growth of fungi. To avoid this, use cotton socks that absorb excess moisture.
Remember that the use of traditional medicine and self-medication can only aggravate the situation and cause a relapse.
The second component of the treatment is the use of antifungal agents. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your choice of medications. Usually, treatment should be continued for 2-4 weeks. Under no circumstances should treatment be discontinued after the symptoms have disappeared.
In the pharmacy you will find a huge amount of antifungal ointments and creams. The most effective use of two-component drugs, consisting of two drugs: clotrimazole (a highly effective agent that destroys various fungi) and beclomethasone. You can find out more about the treatment here. Treatment of fungal infections takes at least 2 weeks, but the removal of symptoms such as itching, redness and burning occurs within the first day.
In severe cases or if the infection persists, antifungal pills may be needed. Before you start taking these pills, you will need a blood test to evaluate the condition of your liver.
If the infection has spread to the nails, they should also be treated, otherwise they can become a new source of infection. The presence of fungus on the nails can extend the required treatment period up to 3-4 months after taking the pills.
How to treat foot fungus during pregnancy?
Pregnant women can use clotrimazole cream twice a day for 2-3 weeks to treat foot fungus. Antifungal pills are not recommended due to the possible effect on the fetus. Be sure to consult with your obstetrician-gynecologist before using any medications during pregnancy.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
If you notice redness, swelling, bleeding, or if the infection does not respond to conventional medications, see your doctor. If there is a bacterial infection, it may be necessary to take pills. See your doctor even if you have nail fungus, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.
What are the possible complications of foot fungus?
If left untreated, the fungus can spread to other parts of the body or to other people, including family members. Infection can occur on the feet, fingernails, toenails, hands, or, less commonly, elsewhere. This will lead to a long debilitating treatment.
The risk factors are:
- old age;
- diseases that weaken the immune system;
- people with diabetes.
Which doctor can help cure foot fungus?
Skin diseases are treated by a dermatovenerologist. Alternatively, you can contact your family doctor, general practitioner, pediatrician and mycologist.