Treatment FAQ

how long is treatment for athletes foot

by Joey Cummerata Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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With proper diagnosis and treatment, your athlete's foot should go away in one to eight weeks. And be sure to follow your healthcare provider's instructions. It's important to finish your full course of medicine, too. During the early healing stages, itchiness and irritation will fade.Dec 1, 2021

Medication

#1 Remedy: Baking Soda

  • Make a sticky paste using baking soda and a little water.
  • Spread it over the affected areas.
  • Leave it on for at least 15 minutes.
  • Rinse it off with clean water, and then dry your feet thoroughly.

Self-care

  • Soap and water: Keeping the affected area clean is important. ...
  • Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. ...
  • Oregano oil: Oregano oil is an essential oil and a powerful antifungal compared to many commercial products. ...

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What are home remedies for athletes feet?

  • Is this athlete foot treatment serving the purpose of purchase? ...
  • What functions must the athlete foot treatment have? ...
  • Is there a specific budget, or is the budget flexible?
  • Will the athlete foot treatment require maintenance and upkeep costs?
  • Are you looking to buy the athlete foot treatment online or offline? ...

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What cures athletes foot fastest?

  • Compact foot massager provides relaxing manual massage therapy for tired, aching feet
  • Soft, silicone foot scrubber features two different types of bristles that clean & massage your feet
  • No-slip material provides optimal safety by adhering to tub surface - Prevents shower injuries

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What is the best medicine for athletes feet?

What is the best product for athletes feet?

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How is long term athlete's foot treated?

Sprinkle antifungal powder on feet and in your shoes daily. Antifungal creams and sprays are also effective at managing the infection. Continue treatment for one to two weeks after the infection has cleared to prevent it from recurring. Make sure your feet get plenty of air.

Can athlete's foot be completely cured?

Athlete's foot infections generally respond well to antifungal treatment. However, sometimes fungal infections are difficult to eliminate. Long-term treatment with antifungal medications may be necessary to keep athlete's foot infections from returning.

How long does it take to get rid of foot fungus?

Oral antifungal drugs. You typically take this type of drug for six to 12 weeks. But you won't see the end result of treatment until the nail grows back completely. It may take four months or longer to eliminate an infection.

What is the quickest treatment for athlete's foot?

Hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can effectively kill the fungus on the surface level of the foot, as well as any surface bacteria that could cause an infection. Pour hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected area. Note that it may sting, and it should bubble, especially if you have open wounds.

Do I need to throw away my shoes if I have athlete's foot?

You do not have to throw away your shoes if you have athlete's foot unless they were worn without socks, have dirt in them, or you have another skin reaction to the material or color dyes.

What can be mistaken for athlete's foot?

Certain conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, among other things, can also look very much like Athlete's foot. Sometimes, if the skin barrier is compromised, a secondary bacterial infection can occur.

Why wont my athletes foot go away?

Call your healthcare provider if your athlete's foot: Doesn't improve or go away with treatment. Looks infected (red, purple, gray or white skin; irritation and swelling). Spreads to other areas of your body.

What are the stages of athlete's foot?

The early signs of athlete's foot are patches or fissures (deep breaks or slits), especially between the toes. As the infection progresses, the skin may turn red, become itchy, and appear moist. Small blisters may spread out across the foot, breaking to expose raw fissures that are painful and may swell.

Should I wear socks to bed with athlete's foot?

Wearing socks to bed can help prevent transmission of the fungus. Even if you avoid contact, your partner can still develop athlete's foot if you walk around the house barefoot.

Is athlete's foot contagious in the shower?

Is Athlete's Foot Contagious? Yes. It spreads in damp environments, such as public showers or pool areas. It can also spread to other areas of the body if a person touches the affected foot and then touches other body parts, such as the hands.

Does athlete's foot itch when healing?

The best way to help prevent this infection is to avoid walking around barefoot, as well as maintaining good hygiene. Some patients who have developed athlete's foot have noticed the skin between their toes become scaly, dry, and itchy. Others have also experienced inflammation and cracking of the skin.

Can athlete's foot spread to hands?

In rare cases, athlete's foot can spread to the hands, this is known as tinea manuum. The symptoms are very similar to those experienced in the feet. People who do not wash their hands immediately after touching the affected area on their foot are at higher risk. Tinea manuum is a rare complication of athlete's foot.

How long does it take for athlete's foot to go away?

If not treated properly and promptly, athlete's foot can be very stubborn. Even when treated with antifungal drugs, the infection may take several weeks to disappear and may come back after treatment. Most of the time it responds well to these over-the-counter interventions. However, more severe cases may need to be seen by a doctor.

How to cure athlete's foot?

Most cases of athlete's foot can be cured with over-the-counter antifungal products and basic good hygiene. Wash and dry your feet (including between the toes) every morning and evening, change socks or stockings daily, and don't wear the same shoes day after day to allow them time to dry completely before wearing them again.

How to prevent foot fungus?

Don't go barefoot in public areas such as the pool or gym where many others are also barefoot. Cut your risk by keeping your feet clean, dry, and powdered with an over-the-counter antifungal foot powder. Other sensible steps: 1 Wear synthetic socks, and shoes that breathe; shoes that keep water out also keep sweat in. 2 Never share shoes, socks, or towels. 3 If you get athlete's foot, wash your socks and towels in the hottest water possible. 4 Be doubly cautious if you take an antibiotic. The medication can kill beneficial bacteria that normally control the fungus that causes athlete's foot. 5 Take your shoes off when you go home and let your feet get exposed to the air.

How to treat a foot infection?

Sprinkle antifungal powder on feet and in your shoes daily . Antifungal creams and sprays are also effective at managing the infection. Continue treatment for one to two weeks after the infection has cleared to prevent it from recurring. Make sure your feet get plenty of air.

What to do if you can't go barefoot?

If you can't go barefoot or wear sandals, wear synthetic socks which will wick away moisture. Cotton and wool tend to trap the moisture and promote fungal growth. Wear shoes made of a porous material. If not treated properly and promptly, athlete's foot can be very stubborn.

Can you share socks with athletes?

Never share shoes, socks, or towels. If you get athlete's foot, wash your socks and towels in the hottest water possible. Be doubly cautious if you take an antibiotic. The medication can kill beneficial bacteria that normally control the fungus that causes athlete's foot.

Can you go barefoot in the gym?

Don't go barefoot in public areas such as the pool or gym where many others are also barefoot. Cut your risk by keeping your feet clean, dry, and powdered with an over-the-counter antifungal foot powder. Other sensible steps: Wear synthetic socks, and shoes that breathe; shoes that keep water out also keep sweat in.

Overview

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal (caused by a fungus) infection. Athlete’s foot is a form of ringworm. Tinea pedis is another name for athlete’s foot. Tinea is another name for ringworm, and pedis means foot or feet. Athlete’s foot causes an itchy, stinging, burning rash on the skin on one or both of your feet.

Diagnosis and Tests

Your healthcare provider can typically diagnose athlete’s foot by examining your feet and reviewing your symptoms.

Management and Treatment

Athlete’s foot rarely goes away on its own. If left untreated, it’s more likely to spread to other parts of your body.

Prevention

Thoroughly wash your feet and the skin between your toes with antibacterial soap.

What are the risk factors for athlete's foot?

You are at higher risk of athlete's foot if you: Share mats, rugs, bed linens, clothes or shoes with someone who has a fungal infection. Walk barefoot in public areas where the infection can spread, such as locker rooms, saunas, swimming pools, communal baths and showers.

Why do athletes get foot itch?

Causes. Athlete's foot is caused by the same type of fungus that causes ringworm and jock itch . Damp socks and shoes and warm, humid conditions favor the organisms' growth. Athlete's foot is contagious and can be spread by contact with an infected person or from contact with contaminated surfaces, such as towels, floors and shoes.

What causes a rash on the bottom of the foot?

It can cause a scaly rash that may itch, sting or burn. Moccasin-type athlete's foot can cause cracking, peeling or excessive dryness on the bottoms or sides of the feet. Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection that usually begins between the toes.

Can you treat athlete's foot with a ringworm?

Athlete's foot is closely related to other fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch. It can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications, but the infection often recurs. Prescription medications also are available.

Can athlete's foot spread to other parts of the body?

Your athlete's foot infection can spread to other parts of your body, including: Your hand. People who scratch or pick at the infected parts of their feet may develop a similar infection in one of their hands . Your nails.

Can athlete's foot cause eczema?

The moccasin variety of athlete's foot causes chronic dryness and scaling on the soles that extends up the side of the foot. It can be mistaken for eczema or dry skin. The infection can affect one or both feet and can spread to your hand — especially if you scratch or pick at the infected parts of your feet.

Is athlete's foot contagious?

Signs and symptoms of athlete's foot include a scaly rash that usually causes itching, stinging and burning. Athlete's foot is contagious and can be spread via contaminated floors, towels or clothing. Athlete's foot is closely related to other fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch. It can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal ...

What is the best treatment for athlete's foot?

Along with using an OTC antifungal cream, powder, or spray, you may also be able to alleviate the symptoms of athlete’s foot with the following home remedies. A vinegar foot soak has antifungal properties that may help fight an athlete’s foot infection without much risk of side effects.

How long does athlete's foot last?

If a treatment is working, the symptoms of athlete’s foot usually last around 2 weeks. However, if OTC treatments don’t start to improve your symptoms within a few days or you notice the infection worsening, see a doctor. You may need prescription-strength topical or oral antifungal medications to tackle the infection.

Why is it called athlete's foot?

It’s called athlete’s foot because athletes who are in and out of locker rooms and showers are at a particularly high risk of developing this infection.

How to get rid of fungus on feet?

Air out your shoes whenever you can, and try not to wear the same pair of shoes every day. Use talcum powder to keep your toes and feet dry, or use an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal powder on your feet once a week. Clean shower floors and other surfaces that may harbor the fungus.

How to keep your feet dry?

To avoid contamination, try to: Keep your feet dry by thoroughly drying your feet after bathing — especially in between your toes — and wearing clean, dry socks every day. Avoid sharing towels, shoes, and socks with others. Wear cotton socks or socks made from materials that help wick away moisture.

How do you know if you have athlete's foot?

Symptoms of athlete’s foot include: a scaly, red rash that usually develops between the toes before spreading. itchiness, which is often most severe after taking off your shoes and socks. blisters in severe cases.

Is athlete's foot contagious?

If you spend a lot of time around a pool or in public locker rooms, you have a higher risk of developing athlete’s foot, which thrives in these environments and is very contagious. While not serious, the itching and irritation caused by the fungus can be unpleasant and uncomfortable. Take preventive measures whenever you can.

How to keep athlete's foot dry?

Some people will use baking soda or light cornstarch to keep the moisture out or powder. You can use moisture-wicking socks or change socks frequently too.”. These methods along with using antifungal powders and creams before and after a long day can be your best defense against athlete’s foot.

What is the best antifungal cream for athlete's foot?

Best Natural: Bioveco Antifungal Cream at Amazon. "Uses ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, calendula, turmeric, and arnica to help fight fungus and soothe itchy, scaly feet. ". Not only can an athlete’s foot be painful, but it’s also just downright annoying.

What is the best liquid for athlete's foot?

Best Overall: Lotrimin Athlete's Foot Liquid Powder Spray. Powders may seem annoying and messy to apply, but used in spray form it can make for a much easier application. This Lotrimin option comes in a spray form, which is great for coating every single crevice of your foot.

Can you use lotrimin for athlete's foot?

This formula can also be used on ringworm breakouts, so it's great to keep in your medicine cabinet. It can be used on children over the age of two, so if your little one is dealing with a bout of athlete's foot, turn to Lotrimin.

Does miconazole nitrate help with athlete's foot?

This formula contains two percent miconazole nitrate, which has been clinically proven to relieve itchy skin and can even be used as initial prevention of Athlete's foot. 1 The best part about powder formulas, in general, is that they can contain active ingredients while working to dry out any moist areas.

Can athlete's foot spread easily?

If you have athlete’s foot something you’ll want to be cognizant of is the fact that the fungus spreads easily . Linda Stein Gold, M.D., Head of Dermatology at Henry Ford Health System in West Bloomfield, Michigan, says that you should be vigilant if you live with someone who has athlete’s foot.

Can you spray your feet for athlete's foot?

While there are a variety of treatments available for athlete's foot, there's going to be a method that works best for you and your specific needs. If you have trouble with mobility and reaching your feet is an issue, a spray may work best for you.

What is the best treatment for athlete's foot?

Talcum powder, corn starch, or baby powder work to treat athlete’s foot by keeping the affected area dry and clean. This makes it difficult for the fungus to thrive and spread by keeping sweat and moisture under control.

How long does it take for garlic to cure athlete's foot?

One older study even found that a derivative of garlic, alone, resulted in a complete cure in 79 percent of participants. after just 7 days. To use garlic to treat athlete’s foot, crush four to five cloves of garlic. Once smashed, rub them over the affected area.

How to get rid of fungus on feet?

You can apply it directly to the affected area or soak your feet in a footbath of 70 percent rubbing alcohol and 30 percent water for 30 minutes. 6. Garlic.

How to get rid of a foot infection?

on the surface level of the foot, as well as any surface bacteria that could cause an infection. Pour hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected area. Note that it may sting, and it should bubble, especially if you have open wounds. Do this twice daily until the infection subsides. 3.

What is athlete's foot?

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that typically starts between the toes. It causes a scaly, itchy rash that may have painful or burning sensations. In some cases, people may also experience ulcers or blisters, which can be very painful. Fortunately, athlete’s foot can be extremely receptive to home treatment.

Can athlete's foot be a bacterial infection?

If untreated, athlete’s foot can result in a bacterial infection if skin is broken. This can happen due to scratching or when blisters pop or ulcers become infected. Any type of infection can be very serious and requires prompt treatment.

Does tea tree oil help with athlete's foot?

Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which is part of the reason it’s commonly used to treat many fungal infections (including both ringworm and candidiasis). that applying tea tree oil daily could treat both the symptoms of athlete’s foot and the fungus that causes it within a few weeks.

What causes athlete's foot rash?

A. Athlete's foot, a common rash on the soles of the feet and in between toes, is caused by a skin fungus (Tinea pedis). The rash usually improves with use of antifungal creams and sprays for two to four weeks. If not, you have several options. First, you might not actually have athlete's foot.

Can you have athlete's foot?

First, you might not actually have athlete's foot. Other skin conditions, especially eczema and dry skin, can mimic the symptoms of athlete's foot. Your doctor can confirm athlete's foot by scraping a small bit of scale off the foot and examining it under a microscope. If you do have the fungus, changing your socks frequently to keep your feet dry ...

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