Individuals who notice fungal infections on their feet should consult the best dermatologist in Model Town Lahore. Fungal infection is contagious and can spread on the toes. The dermatologist will help diagnose the problem and its cause. Additionally, the specialist will provide guidance regarding treatment for curing the condition.
Tinea pedis is generally known as athlete’s foot. It is a skin condition in which the patient suffers from a fungal infection in the middle of the toes. It is transmissible, and the patient can suffer from the infection for weeks. However, the treatment can help in a smooth recovery. Men are at a higher risk of suffering from tinea pedis due to working in harsh environments.
Common signs and symptoms of Tinea Pedis
The common signs of tinea pedis are:
- The person feels itchiness near the affected areas
- The patient can notice soreness around the affected part of the foot.
- The person experiences a burning sensation on the feet
- The patient can notice the formation of blisters that cause itchiness and discomfort.
- The affected area becomes extremely dry and starts to peel off.
- The skin appears scaly that causes pain and discomfort
- The person can notice that the affected part of the skin becomes thick.
- The color of the skin changes
- The toes appear white
- Toenails are affected and can be pulled away easily from the nail bed.
Known Causes of Tinea Pedis
The causes of tinea pedis include:
- The fungus is found in moist places that can affect the skin.
- Sweating and tight clothing can cause a fungal infection.
- It is contagious direct exposure to the affected area can cause the spreading.
- Indirect contact can also cause the person to suffer from a fungal infection.
Preventive Measures
The preventive measures for tinea pedis are:
- Use a washed pair of socks every day.
- Maintain hygiene and wash your feet every day.
- Make sure that the feet are dry before wearing socks.
- Use cotton socks and clean pair of shoes.
- Avoid using wet shoes made up of plastic material.
- Avoid walking or roaming around barefooted as it increases the probability of infection.
- People should avoid sharing clothes, socks, and towels to reduce the chances of getting infected.
- Use powder to dry your feet in humidity.
The complications of Tinea Pedis
The complications associated with tinea pedis are:
- The infection can spread to other parts of the body.
- Scratching the feet from the hands can cause the spread of infection on the hands. The person cannot function adequately and complete everyday tasks.
- The infection can spread to the nails, which causes pain and unease. Additionally, it is hard to treat.
- The infection can spread to the groin and cause further complications.
- The fungal infection can lead to blisters in the hands or feet.
Tests to Diagnose Tinea Pedis
- The specialist will conduct a thorough exam of the feet. The specialist will check for the rash, redness, blisters, and scaling of the skin that correlates with tinea pedis. Also, it allows the specialist to assess the severity of the condition.
- KOH test confirms the presence of the fungus that caused the infection. A small part of the affected area is scraped off and placed in potassium hydroxide. It kills the healthy cells and leaves the fungus.
Effective Treatment Options for Tinea Pedis
The treatment options include:
Use of topical antifungals: creams and sprays help clear the fungus. They are applied directly to the affected part.
- Use of Antibiotics: In severe cases, the person may develop blisters. The medication helps fight the infection that may lead to severe complications.
- Use of Topical Steroids: The medications help reduce the inflammation that may lead to further complications.
People diagnosed with tinea pedis should consult the best dermatologist in DHA Karachi to opt the effective treatment.