Athlete’s foot is an itchy and uncomfortable fungal infection that can easily spread in areas like locker rooms. This condition is often the result of wearing tight shoes and sweating, which is why it is more common among athletes. Poulsbo, Washington patients can turn to West Sound Dermatology for effective athlete’s foot treatment. 

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection known by dermatologists as tinea pedis. This infection affects the feet most often, but can also infect the nails, hands or other areas. 

Athlete’s foot is caused by the tinea fungus growing on the skin. This fungus easily passes through contact with other infected people or contaminated objects and surfaces. The tinea fungus thrives in warm and humid climates, which means that it easily spreads in public spaces such as locker rooms or swimming pools. 

Athlete’s foot can cause symptoms including:

  • Itching
  • Stinging 
  • Burning
  • Blisters
  • Cracking or peeling skin
  • Dryness
  • Discolored, thickened or crumbled nails
  • Separation of the nails from the nail bed

Treatment for Athlete’s Foot

Your provider may recommend over the counter or prescription antifungal medications to treat athlete’s foot. Treatment options may include:

  • Miconazole (Desenex)
  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)
  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF)
  • Butenafine (Lotrimin Ultra)
  • Tolnaftate (Tinactin)
  • Topical clotrimazole
  • Topical miconazole
  • Itraconazole (Sporanox)
  • Fluconazole (Diflucan)

As needed, your provider may also prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections. You may also be recommended to soak affected areas in saltwater or diluted vinegar to dry blisters and reduce symptoms. 

Schedule an Appointment 

To learn more about your best treatment options for athlete’s foot, schedule an appointment at West Sound Dermatology. Call our Poulsbo office at (360) 824-5474.

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