7 Ways to Avoid Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that commonly affects athletes. It appears as rashes between the toes and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the common causes of athlete’s foot and ways to avoid it.

1. Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry

One of the main causes of athlete’s foot is damp feet. If your feet are not clean and dry, you may easily pick up the infection from a contaminated surface. It is essential to wash your feet thoroughly and gently dry them, especially between the toes. Talcum powder can also help your feet stay dry.

2. Wear Breathable Footwear

Repeatedly using the same shoes without cleaning or allowing the sweat and dampness inside to dry thoroughly can also cause athlete’s foot. Closed footwear like sneakers hold the dampness in, while open-toed footwear allows the air to keep the feet dry. It is advisable to wear roomy shoes made of natural materials like leather and to change your shoes every couple of days to allow them to dry out between uses.

3. Choose the Right Socks

Sweaty, damp socks hold moisture and are one of the worst culprits behind athlete’s foot. It is essential to wear a fresh pair of socks every day and avoid reusing the same ones without washing and drying them well. Cotton socks are a better choice than synthetic ones as they allow your feet to “breathe.”

4. Avoid Walking Barefoot in Contaminated Areas

Communal showers, locker rooms, and gyms are highly contaminated with disease-causing microbes. Walking barefoot in these areas can easily cause athlete’s foot. It is advisable to wear shower shoes or flip-flops in these areas to avoid picking up the infection.

5. Don’t Share Contaminated Items

Athlete’s foot is highly contagious, and sharing contaminated items like towels, socks, or shoes can easily cause this infection. It is essential to wash your own towels regularly and not share them with anyone in a communal setting, especially locker rooms.

6. Maintain a Strong Immune System

These microbes are present almost everywhere, and a weakened immune system can make a person more prone to contracting these kinds of diseases. It is essential to keep your feet clean and dry at all times and avoid using moisturizers between your toes as the moisture helps the fungi multiply.

7. Manage Other Health Conditions

Some health conditions, like diabetes, make a person more prone to contracting these kinds of diseases. They should also take extra precautions to stay dry and avoid picking up the infection.

In conclusion, athlete’s foot is an annoying disease that can easily spread to other parts of your body if left untreated. It is essential to maintain good foot hygiene, wear breathable footwear and socks, avoid walking barefoot in contaminated areas, and not sharing contaminated items. By following these simple tips, you can prevent the occurrence of athlete’s foot and keep your feet healthy and clean.