Mycosis of the feet is the most common fungal infection of the skin today. There are three main types of mycosis of the feet or fungus on the feet, as it is also called. And each type is localized on different parts of the foot and looks different.
How can you get foot fungus?
Mycosis of the feet is caused by fungi that grow on or in the upper layer of the skin. The fungus thrives best in warm and humid places. For example - in the area between the toes. The fungus on the feet spreads very easily. It is enough to touch the fingers and toes of the infected person to get sick with a high probability. But most often the fungal infection occurs when people walk barefoot on contaminated surfaces near swimming pools or in the locker rooms of the same pool, gym and other similar items. The fungus can then remain in your shoes, especially if the shoes are very tight and air cannot circulate around your feet.
If you touch an object that has fungus on it, then you can also spread it and infect other people. Also, even if you infect others, it does not mean that you will definitely infect yourself. Doctors do not know why this happens, but everyone's predisposition to fungal infection of the feet is different. And if you already have mycosis, there is a good chance you will get it again.
2. Symptoms of the fungus
Symptoms of athlete's foot can include burning and itching of the skin between the toes. The skin may peel off and crack. Other symptoms of foot fungus can vary depending on which type of athlete's foot is diagnosed.
The first type is an infection that most often causes symptoms between the fourth and fifth fingers. The skin peels, peels and cracks. In some cases, a bacterial infection can join the mycosis and the condition of the skin worsens.
The second type of fungus is a disease that can start with mild pain in the legs. Then the skin on the heel or lower part of the foot thickens and may crack. As the fungus on the feet progresses, so do the nails. With nail fungus, it can thicken, break or even fall off. Fungal infections of the nails and skin of the feet should be treated differently, as a rule.
Vesicular infection is the third type of athletic foot. Usually this type of foot fungus starts with blisters filled with fluid under the skin. Bubbles usually form at the bottom of the foot, but they can be found elsewhere on the foot. Concomitant bacterial infection can also develop with this type of foot fungus.
3. Diagnosis of mycosis
To diagnose foot fungus, the doctor usually only needs to examine the patient and examine the medical history (symptoms, previous illnesses). If the fungus on your feet is unusual or unresponsive to treatment, your doctor may take a sample of your skin or nails to test for the fungus.
Not all skin problems on the feet are fungal infections or fungus on the feet. If you suspect that you have a fungus, but have never had one before, it actually makes sense to visit a good dermatologist.
4. Treatment of the disease
Special lotions, creams or sprays are usually sufficient to treat foot fungus. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe prescription pills or topical medications to treat toenail fungus. You need to be treated for the fungus as much as the doctor says. This will guarantee that it has indeed been possible to cure the fungus completely. In addition to the general treatment of athlete's foot, it is imperative that the feet are clean and dry. The fungus needs warm, moist places to grow.
To prevent mycosis and recurrence of fungus on the feet, you should use your own special shoes when you go to the gym, pool and similar places. To keep your feet dry, you can use talcum powder or special products. Sandals or shoes that are not too tight will ensure adequate air circulation and moisture removal.