Just got back from a family vacation where we got to stay at the fabulous, four-star, Hilton Hotel. It had this amazing pool built like a tropical paradise. As someone who particularly loves water sports, I went swimming every day. Needless to say, I thought my vacation was fantastic. It wasn’t until I got home that I noticed something ajar. My feet were exceptionally dry. 

This is a true story, everyone! The soles of my feet looked terrible, particular my heels. It was cracked and scaling. No amount of lotion, cream, or even petroleum jelly could appease my symptoms. Luckily, I study podiatry. I knew that there might be a hidden culprit behind all this who goes by the alias… tinea pedis.

I thought to myself that I must expose this tinea pedis for what it really is to the general public who might not be aware. Thus, listen closely as I tell you how to spot tinea pedis and stop it dead in its tracks.

Tinea pedis can also go by its street name, Athlete’s Foot. It is an infection of the foot by a fungus of the genus, Trichophyton. It is a Trich-y fungus that normally causes a scaly rash which can be itchy, stinging, or burning. The rash tends to start in the toes. Some forms of severe Athlete’s Foot can go on to cause blisters or ulcers. Other forms of athlete’s foot can simply cause dryness and scaling on the soles of the feet that extends slightly up the sides of the feet (such is the case of my situation). This later form of Athlete’s Foot can often be mistaken for eczema or dry skin, but can’t be cured unless the fungus is treated.

The worst part about tinea pedis is that it is contagious. It can spread from one area of the body to another, or from person to person. Damp socks or shoes can exacerbate the condition. The fungal organism likes to grow under humid conditions. This means that if you tend to have sweaty feet, then you are more prone to the infection. Environments like locker rooms, public showers, or even swimming pools (gasp!) are common breeding grounds for the infection as well. 

It is best to see a doctor should you find suspicious skin symptoms on your feet. Call us at 1-310-652-3668 to schedule an appointment today if you think tinea pedis has affected you. A proper diagnosis can lead to the appropriate treatment that will get rid of your symptoms more effectively. In the meantime, have a nice day and keep those feet dry and clean!