Pesky Foot Fungus? We Can Help
posted: Dec. 11, 2020.
Your feet play such an important role in helping you move about every day that you want them to be at their best. Unfortunately, fungal infections can sometimes affect the feet and leave them itchy, irritated, and uncomfortable. Dr. Joseph Mechanik, has over 25 years of experience, at Colorado Foot Institute in Centennial, can develop a plan for treating pesky foot fungus.
Fungal Infections on the Feet
Fungal infections on the feet are caused by a fungus, which is an organism that thrives in areas that are warm and moist. One way to avoid developing foot fungus is to wear protective footwear when walking in locker rooms, including the showers, and around public pools. Walking barefoot in these areas increases the risk of developing a fungal infection.
Two types of fungal infections that commonly affect the feet are athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. Athlete’s foot is also known as tinea pedis and is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. Symptoms can include skin irritation, itching, dryness, scaly skin, redness, swelling, and even blisters. Toenail fungus often develops as a result of athlete’s foot that has spread to the skin under the nail fold. Symptoms include thickening or yellowing of the toenails, as well as the development of brownish discolorations on the nails.
Treatments for Foot Fungus
Foot fungal infections can be treated with prescription or over-the-counter anti-fungal ointments and creams that are applied topically to the affected area. Another treatment option is an oral anti-fungal medication. Oral treatments tend to work more quickly than topical ones, but some individuals might experience unwanted side effects, such as an upset stomach. Dr. Mechanik can recommend an appropriate treatment for your athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, or other fungal infection.
If you are dealing with pesky foot fungus, we can help. To schedule an in-office or telehealth appointment with Dr. Mechanik, our exceptional podiatrist, call Colorado Foot Institute in Centennial at (303) 333-3383.