Foot fungus, a common skin condition and a persistent ailment that is difficult to combat.
It occurs because fungi or yeasts settle in or on the skin and can be caused by sweaty feet. Foot fungus can spread to the nail resulting in a so-called “chalk nail,” and
is characterized by itchy and scaly skin between the toes. It often occurs in humid environments and requires careful treatment.
Foot fungus, scientifically known as “tinea pedis,” is a common skin condition caused by certain types of fungi. These fungi thrive in moist and warm environments, such as in shoes and between toes.
When they infect the skin, it can cause symptoms such as redness, itching, scaling and sometimes blistering. It is important to recognize this condition early and treat it appropriately to prevent its spread and complications.
Foot fungus, feeds on the dead skin cells and moisture. These fungi reproduce particularly well in certain conditions.
The following is a description of the main causes and promoting factors for the development of foot fungus:
Heat and Moisture: Mold thrives in warm and humid environments. Wearing poorly ventilated shoes, especially for long periods of time, can increase the risk of foot fungus.
Public Spaces: Walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools, showers and locker rooms can increase the risk of infection, as these are often breeding grounds for mold.
Insufficient Foot Hygiene: Irregular washing of the feet or not thoroughly drying the feet, especially between the toes, can create a favorable environment for fungal growth.
Damaged Skin or Nails: Minor cuts, abrasions or damaged toenails can provide an entry point for foot fungus.
Shared Items: Sharing shoes, socks or towels with someone who has foot fungus can transmit the fungus.
It is important to be aware of these causes and take preventive measures to minimize the risk of foot fungus.
Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for timely treatment and to prevent further spread. Here are the main characteristics by which you can recognize foot fungus
Itching: One of the first and most common symptoms of foot fungus is a persistent itching between the toes or on other parts of the foot.
Redness and Inflammation: The infected skin may become red and inflamed, sometimes accompanied by a burning sensation.
Flaking: The skin may begin to flake, especially between the toes. This may be accompanied by white, moist skin.
Vesicles or Blisters: In some cases, small, fluid-filled itchy blisters or blisters may develop on the foot, which may burst and release fluid.
Bad Odor: An unpleasant odor is often associated with foot fungus because of bacterial activity.
Thickening or Discoloration of the Nails: Although more commonly associated with fungal nails (onychomycosis), a fungus affecting the nails can also cause foot fungus and vice versa.
Cracks or Fissures: With progressing infection, cracks or fissures may appear in the skin, especially on the heels or sides of the foot.
If you suspect you have foot fungus, it is advisable to consult a doctor or podiatrist as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
However, prevention is better than cure, so maintain good foot hygiene and avoid situations where you are at risk of infection.
Treatment focuses on eliminating the fungus and preventing a new infection. Here are some general steps and recommendations:
Antifungal creams and ointments: Various over-the-counter antifungal products are available at pharmacies. These should be applied according to the instructions on the package.
Treating Shoes: In addition to treating your feet, it is also important to treat your shoes to prevent reinfection. Pedifris can be sprinkled in shoes or socks to kill mold spores.
Consult a Doctor: If the symptoms of foot fungus persist or worsen despite the use of over-the-counter remedies and Pedifris Classic, it is advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist. The latter may prescribe a stronger antifungal treatment.
Recognizing and treating foot fungus early is crucial. By following a consistent treatment plan and taking preventive measures, you can effectively fight foot fungus and prevent recurring infections.
There are several measures that can be taken to prevent or reduce foot fungus. Here are some recommendations:
Hygiene is essential: Wash feet daily with soap and water and dry them carefully, especially between the toes where foot fungus often settles.
Wear airy shoes: Avoid wearing tight, closed shoes. Instead, choose shoes that breathe, such as real leather shoes or athletic shoes with ventilation holes.
Avoid humid environments: Mold thrives in humid environments. Therefore, make sure feet stay as dry as possible. If feet perspire, consider wearing special moisture-wicking socks or sprinkling talcum powder on feet before putting on shoes.
Change shoes and socks regularly: If shoes have become damp from sweat, give them time to dry completely before wearing them again. Changing socks daily can also help prevent foot fungus.
Wear slippers in public places: Public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms are often breeding grounds for mold. Protect feet by wearing slippers in these areas.
Keep nails short and clean: Fungi can nestle under the nail edge. Regular clipping and cleaning of nails can prevent this.
Do not share personal items: Avoid sharing shoes, socks, towels and other personal items, as mold can reside on them.
Treat foot problems early: Calluses, blisters or small wounds can disrupt the skin’s barrier, paving the way for fungi. Therefore, treat these problems promptly and keep the affected areas clean and dry.
Prevention is the best approach when it comes to foot fungus. Practicing good foot hygiene and being aware of the risks can effectively keep foot fungus at bay.
Foot fungus can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. If the condition persists despite attempts at treatment, it is important to consider a more targeted and intensive approach. Below are some steps you can take for stubborn foot fungus:
Consult a doctor or dermatologist: If foot fungus is persistent or recurrent, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A specialist can assess the condition and prescribe more effective treatment.
Antifungal creams and ointments: These are available by prescription or over-the-counter. A doctor may prescribe a stronger variant if the over-the-counter products have proven ineffective.
Oral antifungal medication: For very stubborn cases, an oral antifungal medication such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be prescribed. These drugs are available only by prescription and have potential side effects, so they are usually used only when other treatments are ineffective.
Stay consistent with treatment: It is crucial to continue treatment for the full recommended duration, even if symptoms disappear earlier. This reduces the risk of the infection returning.
If the foot fungus continues to recur despite consistent treatment and preventive measures, it may indicate an underlying health problem or another skin condition similar to foot fungus. In such cases, it is important to consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The answer to this is Yes! So be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after treatment. Because a foot fungus infection can spread to your hands and even your scalp.
Never wear shoes or socks or shoes of someone who suffers from foot fungus. So if you suspect symptoms of foot fungus or have symptoms and don’t know exactly where they are coming from, consult a certified podiatrist or a family doctor. They can make an accurate diagnosis.
Make sure your feet are clean by washing them with a mild, ph-neutral soap.
Use PediFris® shoe powder to keep your feet and shoes free of mold, and use an anti-fungal foot product such as PediSpray® to keep feet dry so that mold has no breeding ground
Wear slippers in public shower and changing areas and dry slippers thoroughly after showering as well.
Always wash feet thoroughly with a mild soap and rinse off soap residue well.
Then dry feet thoroughly. If necessary, use a hair dryer to blow dry the spaces between the toes.
Wear thin cotton socks and well-ventilated shoes
Wear bathing slippers in public bathing areas (pool, sauna, sports hall)
