Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that causes dry, itchy skin around the soles of the feet and between the toes.
To fight the effects of athlete's foot NYC podiatrist, Dr. Miguel Cunha, and the physicians at Gotham Footcare can prescribe medication. Patients seeking treatment for athlete's foot can visit the Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, New York offices of Gotham Footcare.
Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a prevalent fungal infection that affects the feet. It thrives in warm, moist environments and most commonly develops between the toes or on the soles of the feet. The initial signs of athlete's foot often include itching, dryness, and scaling of the skin. In more severe cases, the infection can progress to inflammation, develop cracks in the skin, and even cause blisters to form. The name "athlete's foot" stems from the fact that athletes are more prone to this condition due to the combination of sweaty feet and frequent use of shared facilities where the fungus can easily spread.
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection caused by a group of microscopic organisms called dermatophytes.
These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and feed on keratin, the protein that makes up hair, skin, and nails. Similar to ringworm and jock itch, athlete's foot flourishes in dark, damp conditions. This is why damp socks and the insides of shoes can create a breeding ground for fungal growth, eventually leading to infection.
Untreated athlete's foot can lead to a number of complications. The compromised skin develops cracks and blisters and becomes vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections. These bacterial infections can worsen the discomfort and potentially require additional anti-biotic treatment.
In some cases, an allergic reaction to the fungal infection itself can develop. This occurs when proteins from the fungus enter the bloodstream after an initial episode of athlete's foot. This reaction, known as an "id reaction," can cause blistering on the fingers or toes, even in areas that weren't directly affected by the original infection. Fungal nail infections, called onychomycosis, can develop with or without any initial symptoms of athlete's foot. This highlights the importance of seeking treatment for athlete's foot promptly, even if the initial discomfort seems mild.
Treating athlete’s foot allows you to regain control over your life by eliminating the fungus and all associated symptoms. Ranging from mild to severe, athlete’s foot symptoms include:Â
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they are primarily on your feet, it's best to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss your Athlete's Foot treatment options.
Treating athlete's foot isn't just about getting rid of itchy feet. Here's why tackling that fungus is beneficial for both your body and mind:
Physical Relief
Anti-fungal treatments quickly target the fungus that causes itching, burning, and stinging. This means freedom from the constant urge to scratch so that you can live comfortably.
Improved Appearance
Athlete's foot can lead to cracked, scaly skin that can prevent you from feeling confident in sandals. Clearing up the rash and promoting healthy skin, athlete's foot treatment can help you feel comfortable showing off your feet again.
Reduced Risk of Spreading
Athlete's foot is highly contagious. Fast treatment helps prevent it from spreading to other parts of your body or even to other people.
Mental Wellbeing
Constant itching and discomfort can take a toll. By treating athlete's foot, you eliminate that annoyance and gain peace of mind. You can focus on your day without the distraction of itchy feet.
Athlete's foot NYC patients need to be aware that this is a contagious fungal infection that can spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces.
In New York City, where public spaces are frequent, it's important to take preventative measures. To minimize exposure, avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like pools or showers, as these warm, moist environments are breeding grounds for fungus. Daily foot hygiene is crucial. Wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water, paying particular attention to drying them completely, especially between the toes. If your feet sweat excessively, frequent sock changes are recommended to maintain dryness.
Fortunately, athlete's foot is often treatable in its early stages with over-the-counter anti-fungal medications. These come in various forms, including powders, creams, sprays, and lotions, and are specifically designed to target the fungus. For moderate cases, a doctor might prescribe a stronger topical medication. In severe instances, oral anti-fungal medications may be necessary.
Depending on the severity of your athlete's foot, you should expect to see your athlete's foot completely resolved within one to four weeks.
During the time it takes for your athlete's foot to heal, it is important to continue your treatment to prevent the recurrence or worsening of symptoms.
While you may notice some relief from burning and itching within a few days of consistent application, it will take longer for your athlete's foot to resolve completely. Sticking to your recommended treatment schedule, even if your symptoms seem to disappear quickly, will ensure that the fungus is fully eradicated and prevented from returning. If your symptoms do not improve within the first week or so, it is important to contact us so that we can make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.
While athlete's foot treatment is generally safe and effective, there are a couple of things worth keeping in mind. Some patients experience minor skin irritation, including redness, stinging, or a burning sensation, where the medication is applied. These mild side effects are usually temporary and will resolve on their own, although, in some cases, allergic reactions to ingredients may occur. If this happens, you may notice a more intense reaction with itchiness, redness, and swelling that spreads beyond the area where you applied the medication.
You can minimize risks by following your doctor's instructions carefully. If you have sensitive skin, it is important to let your doctor know so that you can explore hypoallergenic options. If you experience an allergic reaction, you should stop using the medication immediately and consult your doctor. Overall, the benefits of treating athlete's foot outweigh the risks for most people.
Who is a candidate for Athlete’s Foot treatment?
If you are experiencing athlete's foot symptoms, you are likely a candidate for treatment. During your consultation, your foot care specialist will assess your condition, symptoms, and medical history to determine if treatment is right for you.
Why choose Gotham Footcare for Athlete’s Foot treatment?
We are New York City's premier foot care specialists, offering comprehensive and advanced care for a variety of conditions. Don't let athlete's foot prevent you from living comfortably and confidently. Schedule your consultation to begin your treatment and free yourself from painful and annoying symptoms.
How much does Athlete’s Foot treatment cost?
The cost of Athlete's Foot treatment varies depending on the type of medication used. During your consultation, we will be happy to discuss all of the details of your treatment plan, including cost, to ensure your best overall experience.
Keeping your feet clean and dry and using an anti-fungal medication is the best way to effectively and efficiently treat your athlete's foot. At Gotham Footcare, we offer a variety of proven, effective athlete's foot treatments to ensure fast and lasting relief.
Yes, most cases of athlete's foot can be cured completely through medicated treatments and good hygiene.
If you are experiencing symptoms and over-the-counter medications have not provided the relief you need, you should consult a doctor to receive prescription care.
Wearing socks to bed can keep the fungus from spreading to other parts of your body or to your partner.
At Gotham Footcare in NYC, we strive at recognizing your individual needs and desired outcomes while formulating an effective and personalized treatment plan with the highest quality care available.
What sets Gotham Footcare apart from other podiatry offices is our dedication to providing you with the education you need to make well-informed decisions regarding your care. Regardless of what your foot and ankle trouble may be, at Gotham Footcare our team will work tirelessly to help you feel better. At Gotham Footcare, we help you put your best foot forward.
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