Athletes Foot

Athletes foot is caused by a fungus called dermatophytes, which live on dead skin cells. It is contagious and lives mainly between the toes. 

Diabetics and sports participants, who share common showers, are particularly prone to athlete’s foot.

The most common symptoms of athlete’s foot is itching and burning between the toes, but there may also be blisters and inflammation as well as moist, white lesions, redness, scales, and a pungent smell from the toes.

Since moist, damp conditions are necessary for athlete’s foot to grow, wearing flip flops, or swim shoes when at pools, public showers, or damp public bathrooms at lakes, etc. can keep your feet from coming into contact with the fungus, and prevent infections. 

Because athletes foot does thrive in moist areas, and when shoes are worn most of the day your feet can sweat, it is important to alternate the shoes you wear so they have time to dry before wearing them again.

Even applying an antiperspirant to your feet, especially the areas between your toes, can help.

Avoid sharing socks or shoes with others as athletes foot can be transferred that way. Athlete’s foot can also be carried in the fur of pets.

Cleaning feet thoroughly with an antibacterial soap and carefully drying between toes, even using a blow dryer to be certain no moisture remains on the feet can help prevent athlete’s foot.

Home Remedies for Athletes Foot:

Vinegar:

A good, natural cure for athlete’s foot is a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. Soak your feet in the solution for 20 to 30 minutes a day.

Baking Soda:

Another home remedy, said to work as well as expensive anti-fungal powders is baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda between your toes and rinse after 20 to 30 minutes, then carefully dry.

Tea Tree Oil:

Tea tree oil is a natural anti-fungal, which when rubbed between your toes and affected areas, is a natural cure for athletes foot. Tea tree oil should not be consumed, but can be found at any health food store.

Corn Starch:

Wear shoes made of natural fibers like cotton or leather. Another helpful natural solution is putting corn starch, or corn starch powder, on your feet, especially between the toes, and sprinkling it inside your shoes before wearing them.

Diet:

To help prevent athlete’s foot, avoid baked goods with high yeast content, alcohol, sugar, cola, and grains. Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fresh fruit and green leafy vegetables. Include garlic in your diet, and avoid fried, greasy foods.