Athlete's foot — also known as ringworm of the foot and tinea pedis — is a fungal infection of the skin that causes scaling, flaking, cracking, and itching of affected areas.
It may be painful and swelling can be present but not always.
It may be dormant in the skin but there can be no apparent symptoms until the environment in which it lives provides moisture, darkness, and heat.
Although the condition typically affects the feet, it can spread to other areas of the body including the hands and groin.
Athletes foot can also lead to onychomycosis (nail fungus ).
In early stages it can be undetected as it appears as a white, creamy, or yellow discolouration of the nail, generally seen at the corner of the nail but not always.
In advanced onychomycosis often systemic antifungal treatment is required along with regular attendance to your podiatrist to painlessly reduce the nail, allowing the anti-fungal treatment to be more effective. The attendance to the podiatrist is especially beneficial if topical antifungal are being applied as reduction of the nail allows the lacquer to penetrate to the nail bed where the fungus is most active, making the treatment more effective.
Early intervention is always best and so making an appointment with the podiatrist can ensure you get the correct diagnosis and the most suitable treatment/advice.
Leonie Hegerty O’Brien, Dip Pod Surg, BSc, HSE and health insurers approved podiatrist regularly attends Healthwest Community Pharmacy Ballindine.
Appointments are necessary by phoning 094 936 4712. Further information on treatments and comfort footwear available at www.istepclinic.com or telephone 093 28858.
