ATHLETE'S FOOT(Tinea Pedis; Ringworm of the Feet) |
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ATHLETE'S FOOT
(Tinea Pedis; Ringworm of the Feet)
DESCRIPTIONAthlete's foot is a common, contagious fungus infection of the skin on the feet. The feet, especially the soles and the skin between the toes (usually the 4th and 5th toes), are involved. Athlete's foot can affect both sexes and all ages but is more common in adolescents than younger children.
Appropriate health care includes:
Self-care after diagnosis.
Physician's monitoring if infection is severe or persistent.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Moist, soft, gray-white or red scales on feet, especially between toes.
Dead skin between toes.
Itching in inflamed areas.
Damp, musty foot odor.
Small blisters on the feet (sometimes).
CAUSES
Infection by a trichophyton fungus.
RISK FACTORS
Infrequent washing of the feet.
Infrequent changes of shoes or socks.
Use of locker rooms and public showers.
Hot, humid weather.
PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS OR RECURRENCEInstructions for your child:
Bathe feet daily. Dry thoroughly and dust with talc.
Go barefoot when possible.
Change shoes and socks daily.
Wear socks made of cotton, wool, or other natural, absorbent fibers. Avoid synthetics.
BASIC INFORMATION
MEDICAL TESTS
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory culture and microscopic examination of scales.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Secondary bacterial infection in the affected area.
Id reaction (See Glossary) on hands and face (rare).
PROBABLE OUTCOME
Usually curable in 3 weeks with treatment, but recurrence is common.
TREATMENT
HOME CARE
Remove scales and material between your child's toes daily.
Keep affected areas cool and dry. The child should go barefoot or wear sandals during treatment.
MEDICATION
Use non-prescription anti-fungal powders, creams, or ointments after your child's daily bath.
For severe cases, your doctor may prescribe an oral anti-fungal medication.
See Medications section for information regarding medicines your doctor may prescribe.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions.
DIET & FLUIDS
No special diet.
OK TO GO TO SCHOOL?Yes, unless the infection is so severe that the child's walking is impaired.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
Your child has severe symptoms of athlete's foot that persist, despite self-treatment.
Your child develops a fever or the infection seems to be spreading.
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