46. Wipe Out Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that is contagious. Symptoms are moist, soft, red or gray-white scales on the feet, especially between the toes; cracked, peeling, dead skin areas; itching; and sometimes small blisters on the feet.
People usually pick up the fungus from walking barefoot over wet floors around swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers.
If you get athlete’s foot:
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•Wash your feet twice a day, especially between your toes and dry the area thoroughly. Don’t use deodorant soaps.
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•Apply an over-the-counter antifungal powder, cream, or spray between your toes and inside your socks and shoes.
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•Wear clean socks made of cotton or wool. (Natural fibers absorb moisture.) Change your socks during the day to help your feet dry out.
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•Wear shoes that provide some ventilation like sandals or canvas loafers.
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•Alternate shoes daily to allow each pair to air out between wearings.
If this regimen doesn’t work, you may need a prescription medication from your doctor or podiatrist.
Note: People with diabetes need to monitor athlete’s foot very carefully for possible bacterial infection and must get medical advice promptly if a problem arises. Diabetics’ feet and nails need special care.
