Our article will tell the whole truth about foot fungus.
Do you know this:
- more than 1. 5 million fungi and 69, 000 species are currently known. More than 500 of them are pathogenic for humans;
- paleontological excavations show that fungi probably existed in the Precambrian period, that is to say some billion hundred million years ago;
- according to researchers, a fifth of the world's population is affected by fungal diseases;
- immunity to the fungus is not developed: we get sick as many times as we are infected;
- the mushroom is extremely hardy. A curious fact is known: Scientists took slippers from a patient with a fungus and put them in a storage room. And after 20 years, the spores of the fungus remained completely unharmed.
What is yeast infection of the feet?
Yeast infection (yeast infection of the feet) is the most common skin disease that can be easily contracted in public places: in saunas, showers, gymnasiums and gymnasiums, on the beach, in the swimming pool. In addition, infection with a fungus often occurs in the family: through shared shoes, less often through other household items.
Some simple steps to prevent yeast infection of the feet:
- do not walk barefoot in public places: at the swimming pool, in the sauna, at the beach;
- only use a personal towel, your own scissors and a comb;
- don't wear someone else's shoes;
- change stockings and socks every day;
- after washing, wipe your feet, especially between the toes;
- treat damaged dystrophic nails (they are more sensitive to the introduction of infectious agents), avoid microtrauma and calluses, which serve as "entry points" to infection;
- avoid dryness or excessive moisture of the feet, and in case of excessive sweating and diaper rash, use special cream or powder / talc.
What are the signs of a yeast infection of the feet?
Some infected people show no signs of the fungus. Others think that they only have dry skin on the feet, as the fungus manifests itself only by peeling of the skin. Most often, the symptoms of the fungus reduce to itching and burning. The skin flakes, sometimes it can even crack, causing pain and blood. And very rarely bubbles appear. Symptoms can appear not only between the toes and on the soles of one or both feet, but also on the lower part of the toes, on the side surfaces of the foot and even on the arch of the foot.
There are three types of yeast infection of the foot:
- plantar form (squamous hyperkeratosis), in which the plants are affected;
- interdigital (intertriginous) form, in which the skin between the fingers is damaged;
- the dyshidrotic form is the rarest, in which itchy blisters and inflammation appear on the skin.
The discomfort associated with fungal symptoms dramatically impairs quality of life, so getting rid of the itching, redness, and burning is a top priority.
The main factors contributing to the development of the disease:
- weakened immunity (at risk - young children and the elderly);
- vascular diseases, varicose veins, scratches and wounds, frostbite of the extremities;
- taking certain drugs: various groups of antibiotics, cortisone drugs, certain contraceptives.
Is mycosis of the feet contagious?
Foot fungus is caused by an infectious agent called a fungus, so it is potentially infectious. However, for unknown reasons, some people do not develop the fungus from contact with contaminated objects.
How is yeast infection of the feet treated?
It is important to notice the appearance of the fungus in time. In no case should you suffer the symptoms: you should choose the right treatment, and also observe hygiene.
There are two parts to treating a fungus. First of all, you need to create conditions in which the mushroom is the least convenient to grow. It means keeping your feet clean and dry.
Shoes, which are made of water-repellent materials, wet the feet and create the best conditions for the growth of fungi. To avoid this, use cotton socks that absorb excess moisture.
Recall that the use of traditional medicine and self-medication can only worsen the situation and cause a relapse.
The second component of treatment is the use of antifungal agents. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your choice of medication. Usually, treatment should be continued for 2 to 4 weeks. In any case, the treatment should not be stopped after disappearance of the symptoms.
In the pharmacy you will find a huge amount of ointments and antifungal creams. The most effective use of two-component drugs, consisting of two drugs: clotrimazole (a very effective agent that destroys various fungi) and beclomethasone. You can read more about the treatment here. Treatment for fungal infections takes at least 2 weeks, but elimination of symptoms such as itching, redness, and burning occurs on day one.
In more severe cases or if the infection persists, antifungal pills may be needed. Before you start taking these pills, you will need a blood test to assess the condition of your liver.
If the infection has spread to the nails, they also need to be treated, otherwise they can become a new source of infection. The presence of fungus on the nails can extend the required treatment period up to 3-4 months after taking the pills.
How to treat fungal infections of the feet during pregnancy?
Pregnant women can use clotrimazole cream twice a day for 2-3 weeks to treat yeast infection of the feet. Antifungal pills are not recommended due to the possible effect on the fetus. Be sure to check with your obstetrician-gynecologist before using any medication during pregnancy.
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice any redness, swelling, bleeding, or the infection is not responding to conventional medications, see your doctor. If there is a bacterial infection, you may need to take pills. Also see your doctor if you have nail fungus, have diabetes, or have a weakened immune system.
What are the possible complications of mycosis of the foot?
If left untreated, the fungus can spread to other parts of the body or to other people, including family members. Infection can occur on the feet, fingernails, fingernails, hands or, less commonly, elsewhere. This will lead to a long debilitating treatment.
The risk factors are:
- advanced age;
- diseases that weaken the immune system;
- people with diabetes.
Which doctor can help cure fungal infections of the feet?
Skin diseases are treated by a dermatovenerologist. You can also consult your family doctor, your general practitioner, your pediatrician and your mycologist.