Athletes foot how does it spread

The KOH solution destroys human cells, leaving only the fungal cells. These can be viewed using a microscope. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a more powerful antifungal medication, which is usually swallowed. Most topical medications can be bought OTC. Topical means it is applied directly onto the skin. A pharmacist may recommend one of the following antifungal medications:.

A range of topical antifungal medications are available for purchase online. These oral medications might be prescribed by a doctor, either because symptoms are severe, or if the topical medicines did not work:. Antacids can interfere with the absorption of oral antifungals. Oral antifungals may also affect how some anticoagulant drugs work.

Elderly patients and young children should not be given some types of antifungals. Check with a pharmacist, doctor, or nurse, or read the leaflet that comes with the medication carefully.

Dosages may be different for children. Some antifungals should not be taken during pregnancy, while others may interfere with the male and female reproductive systems. Individuals who are pregnant, or planning to have children, should check with a doctor. If the skin is very sore and there is a lot of swelling, the doctor may recommend using hydrocortisone.

Low-dose hydrocortisone medications can be bought OTC or online — higher doses will require a prescription. The child should not walk barefoot while at school. Early treatment significantly reduces the risk of complications.

The nail becomes thick, opaque, whitish, and crumbly. There may be pain and inflammation in the skin under the nail. Untreated toenail infections may eventually lead to more pain and problems wearing shoes, or even walking. Secondary bacterial infection: If this develops the foot may become painful, hot, and swollen.

Infected lymph system: The infection can sometimes spread to the lymph system. Lymphangitis is an infection of the lymph vessels, and lymphadenitis is an infection of the lymph nodes.

Cellulitis: This is a bacterial infection deep in the skin. What Is Athlete's Foot? What Causes Athlete's Foot? Is Athlete's Foot Contagious?

How Is Athlete's Foot Diagnosed? How Is Athlete's Foot Treated? Can Athlete's Foot Be Prevented? Athlete's foot often can be prevented. To avoid it: Keep feet clean and dry by washing them daily and drying them completely, especially between the toes. Use a clean towel and avoid sharing. Wear waterproof shoes or flip-flops when walking around in locker rooms, public showers, and public pool areas. Switch between wearing shoes or sneakers to prevent the build-up of moisture.

Choose ones that are well-ventilated with small holes to keep the feet dry. Avoid socks that trap moisture or make the feet sweat. Instead, choose cotton or wool socks or ones made of fabric that wicks away moisture. Change socks regularly, especially if the feet get sweaty.

American Academy of Pediatrics; High WA, et al. Special considerations in skin of color. In: Dermatology Secrets. Elsevier; Ferri FF. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor Newman CC, et al. Clinical pearls in dermatology Disease-a-Month ; doi. Crawford F, et al. Topical treatments for fungal infections of the skin and nails of the foot. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Bell-Syer EM, et al. Oral treatments for fungal infections of the skin of the foot. Office of Patient Education.

Fungal infection: Athlete's foot. Related Athlete's foot Athlete's foot side of foot Athlete's foot between the toes.