Uppermill pharmacist Ian Strachan examines Athlete’s foot and smelly feet.
THE MAJORITY of athlete’s foot is seen in men and teenagers, rarely afflicting children under 12. It is caused by a group of fungi known as Dermatophytes, which multiply in the outer layer of skin.
The feet provide the warm, dark and humid conditions which fungi enjoy, spreading easily from person to person through contaminated towels clothing and surfaces. Warm moist environments such as showers, swimming pools and changing rooms also encourage growth of the fungus.
Athlete’s foot gives rise to an itchy, red rash between your toes. The skin may be scaly, flaky and dry and when left untreated can lead to infection of the nail or other more serious complications.
My message would be to always treat at the first sign of itching or redness and never ignore in the hope it will simply go.
The first stages are usually mild and can be treated using anti-fungal medication from your pharmacy. Anti-fungal preparations include creams, sprays, liquids and powders. Seek the advice of your pharmacist when selecting the most appropriate remedy for you. If the condition does not respond to treatment I would advise referral to your GP.
The best way to prevent athlete’s foot is to practice good foot hygiene so here are some top tips:
– Wash the feet thoroughly on a day to day basis, especially between your toes
– Reduce foot perspiration by using talcum powder
– Avoid tight fitting footwear, particularly during summer
– Do not put on socks, stockings or tights until your feet are thoroughly dry
– Change socks, stockings, or tights regularly
– If possible wear pool slippers or flip flops in changing rooms and shower areas
– Alternating footwear will help ensure your shoes remain dry
– Avoid borrowing shoes to minimise risk of spreading the infection
– Wash towels and bedding regularly
SMELLY FEET and how to stop it
The butt of many a joke but did you know there’s more sweat glands in your feet than any other part of your body? Many causes exist including energetic teenagers, pregnancy, emotional stress, standing for long periods or even prescribed medication.
The main reason for smelly feet is sweating, combined with wearing the same shoes every day.
How to avoid? Prevention has always been my preferred goal so what can we do?
– Never wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row. Teenage boys especially should always have two pairs of trainers to alternate
– Wash and dry feet daily and change socks (ideally wool or cotton but not nylon) at least once a day
– For people particularly vulnerable, dab between toes with cotton wool dipped in surgical spirit after showering or bathing, as this helps to dry out the skin
– Use deodorant spray or antiperspirant on your feet. A normal underarm is as effective as the more specialist foot sprays
– Use medicated insoles which have a de-odorising action
– Wear leather or canvas shoes as they permit your feet to breathe
– Wear open toe sandals in summer and try barefoot in the evenings while at home
When simple measures fail, visit your GP, or when your degree of sweating is particularly excessive.
Good luck and here’s to a pong-free summer. Next month Malaria and bites.
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