Athletes Foot, Tenia Pedis or Ringworm

Athletes foot is a fungal infection, which affects the feet. It is common to contract this infection from public places, such as locker rooms, fitness centers and communal showers. It usually affects the area between the toes. It also spreads to the sides of the feet, the heel and the nails. Over the counter ointment treatments are helpful.

Athlete's foot is also referred to as tenia pedis or ringworm of the foot. Dermatophytosis or athlete foot infection begins with symptoms such as itching, cracking, peeling of skin, stinging, burning sensation, dryness of the skin, crumbly and discoloured nails, deterioration of the nails from the nail bed and itchy blisters. Multiplication of the dermatophytes (fungus) increases the infection. A damp environment is the primary cause of athletes foot. Improper fitting shoes and damp shoes also worsen the infection and hinders with athletes foot treatment.

Athletes foot cure is effective with simple over the counter sprays or ointments. Topical application of these lotions and other agents proves beneficial. Oral medications prove successful, when the infection is severe. Topical agents such as clotrimazole, miconazole and terbinafine are useful for athletes foot remedies. Oral medications that are effective are terbinafine, itraconazole and fluconazole. These medicines have certain side effects. These include weakening of heart contractions, liver failure and death. A wet dressing or vinegar soaks are also helpful. Athlete's foot is prevented by certain precautionary measures. They are:

1. Use antifungal powder on a daily basis. This is one of the most effective athletes foot remedy.
2. Keep the feet dry and avoid damp areas. This prevents the proliferation of the fungus.
3. Have a spare shoe, to avoid wearing damp shoes.
4. Avoid borrowing shoes, as tenia pedis infection is contagious.
5. A light shoe with proper ventilation is helpful. Use water proof sandals in public areas, such as pools, showers and so on.
6. Keep your socks clean and change them on a regular basis. Cotton or woollen socks are helpful.

One part of vinegar is mixed with four parts of water. Use this as a soak for your feet for ten minutes, at the home level. Athlete's foot treatment for nails is essential, as infection of the nails is possible. Improper treatment of the nails results in recurrence of infection in the feet. Avoid vinyl sandals and shoes, as they help in the breeding and multiplication of the fungus.