$Unique_ID{BRK00794}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{How Do You Get Athlete's Foot and How Do You Prevent It?}
$Subject{athlete's foot fungal infection Infections fungus fungi cracking skin
scales blisters bathed daily dried feet powder spray ointment antifungal
agent}
$Volume{A-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How Do You Get Athlete's Foot and How Do You Prevent It?


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QUESTION:  How do you get Athlete's foot and how do you prevent it?  I've had
several bouts with it although I would hardly call myself an athlete.

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ANSWER:  You certainly don't have to be an athlete to get the condition known
as Athlete's Foot.  This annoying ailment has been so named because athlete's
foot fungus grows very well on feet that are perspiring and are in a warm,
dark and humid environment.  The typical athlete works in shoes that provide
those exact conditions.  Factory workers, business executives, salesmen, and
students are just a few of the groups of people who commonly get Athlete's
Foot.
     The wearing of shoes creates perfect conditions for the microscopic fungi
to grow and multiply.  When the fungus grows, it may cause cracking skin
between the toes, scales, blisters or other foot problems.  Strict attention
to foot hygiene, though, can help prevent Athlete's Foot.  Feet should be
bathed daily and completely dried before shoes and socks are put on.  Those
prone to the problem should change their shoes, and particularly their socks,
often.  They should also use a foot powder, spray or ointment that contains an
antifungal agent on a daily basis.  Doctors suggest patients who have had
Athlete's Foot wear absorbent socks made of natural materials.  Nylons and
shoes made of synthetic materials do not breathe and can become an incubator
for the Athlete's Foot fungus.
     If prevention alone can't solve your problem, there are a number of
medications, both over the counter and by prescription that can help remedy
your problem, but then it's time to get some personal professional advice.
Early treatment means an early cure, and an end to the problem.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.