Find out the best ways to handle this annoying little foot problem.
The bad news is you have athlete’s foot. The good news is that most of the time athlete’s foot can be treated from the comfort of your own home using over-the-counter medications and by properly caring for your feet. Here are some things you can try now.
At-home treatments
There is a variety of different over-the-counter antifungals on the market. Some of the most common types include Lotrimin and Lamisil. They come in just about every form, from creams to powders to sprays. Choose whichever form is easiest and most comfortable for you. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging and continue to use it for the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve. Treatment with nonprescription medications should take anywhere from one to six weeks.
Caring for Athlete’s Foot
Properly caring for your feet is just as important as treating the infection. Here are some handy tips for easing symptom and spending up the recovery process.
- Thoroughly clean and dry you feet daily
- Always make sure to dry between your toes, particularly after showering or swimming
- Always wear socks when indoors
- Use antifungal powder on your feet
- Give shoes 24 hours to air dry before wearing them
- Always use sandals or protective footwear when in public showers or pools
When to See a Doctor
While many cases of athlete’s foot will clear up completely with nonprescription treatments, more severe cases will require a prescription oral antifungal medication from your Tampa podiatrists. Also, if you have diabetes and develop athlete’s foot, then call us right away.
If your symptoms do not improve after two weeks or if your athlete’s foot isn’t gone in four weeks then it’s time to come in for treatment. Also, if you are noticing any of these symptoms of a skin infection then it’s also time to schedule a visit:
- Severe cracking or peeling skin
- Blisters on the feet
- Pain, swelling or redness
- Pus
- Fever of 100.4 degrees or higher
- Red streaks around the infected area
If you are experiencing severe or recurrent athlete’s foot that is not responding to over-the-counter medications then it’s time to see your Tampa podiatrists. Call Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists today!