Q. I have been struggling with persistent athlete's foot. I have tried several over-the-counter medications for several weeks without improvement. How can I rid myself of this rash.
A. Athlete's foot, a common rash on the soles of the feet and in between toes, is caused by a skin fungus (Tinea pedis). The rash usually improves with use of antifungal creams and sprays for two to four weeks. If not, you have several options.
First, you might not actually have athlete's foot. Other skin conditions, especially eczema and dry skin, can mimic the symptoms of athlete's foot. Your doctor can confirm athlete's foot by scraping a small bit of scale off the foot and examining it under a microscope.
If you do have the fungus, changing your socks frequently to keep your feet dry will improve the chance that over-the-counter remedies will work. If the rash persists despite your best efforts, talk to your doctor.
Trying a different antifungal cream may also be helpful. Some studies have reported that products containing terbinafine (Lamisil) were more effective than those with clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and similar medications. Prescription oral medications may be required to treat more severe cases.
— William Kormos, M.D.
Editor in Chief, Harvard Men's Health Watch
Image: Thinkstock
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I'm not a doctor, but I can share some insights that might help you with athlete's foot. I've delved into medical literature quite a bit, and it seems that athlete's foot is commonly caused by Tinea pedis, a skin fungus. The recommended treatment involves using antifungal creams and sprays for a few weeks. Now, if you've been diligently applying over-the-counter medications without seeing improvement, a couple of things might be happening.
Firstly, it's crucial to ensure that what you're dealing with is indeed athlete's foot. Skin conditions like eczema and dry skin can mimic its symptoms. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor can perform a simple test by scraping a bit of scale off your foot and examining it under a microscope. That way, you'll be certain about the root cause.
Assuming it is athlete's foot, consider changing your socks frequently to maintain dry feet. Moist environments are ideal for fungal growth, so keeping your feet dry could enhance the effectiveness of over-the-counter remedies. If, despite your best efforts, the rash persists, it's advisable to consult your doctor. They may recommend trying a different antifungal cream, and there's evidence suggesting that products containing terbinafine (like Lamisil) might be more effective than those with clotrimazole (such as Lotrimin) and similar medications.
For more severe cases, prescription oral medications might be necessary. It's crucial to note that this information is a general overview and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor for personalized guidance based on your specific situation.
FAQs
The antifungal terbinafine (Lamisil AT) has been shown to be very effective. Another option is clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF). You may need to experiment to find the product and formulation — ointment, gel, cream, lotion, powder or spray — that work for you.
Why won't my athlete's foot go away? ›
If it's not treated properly and promptly, athlete's foot can be very stubborn. Even when you treat it with antifungal drugs, the infection may take several weeks to disappear and may come back after treatment. More serious cases may need to be seen by a doctor.
What happens if you have athlete's foot for too long? ›
Left untreated, athlete's foot can affect the toenails — which may thicken, become discolored or crumble — and even spread to your hands or groin. Additionally, athlete's foot can make you more vulnerable to bacterial infections, such as cellulitis.
What kills foot fungus fast? ›
Many natural or home remedies can be helpful in killing the fungus that causes athlete's foot.
- Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) Share on Pinterest Studies suggest that tea tree oil may help to kill fungi. ...
- Garlic. ...
- Hydrogen peroxide with iodine. ...
- Hair dryer and talcum powder. ...
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
Hydrogen peroxide can effectively kill the fungus on the surface level of the foot, as well as any surface bacteria that could cause an infection. Pour hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected area. Note that it may sting, and it should bubble, especially if you have open wounds.
What makes athlete's foot worse? ›
How Do People Get Athlete's Foot? Waking around barefoot in warm wet places like locker rooms or public pools can expose the feet to fungi that thrive in those environments. Sweaty shoes and socks add to the dampness and can make the infection worse.
Why do I have permanent athlete's foot? ›
Damp socks and shoes and warm, humid conditions favor the organisms' growth. Athlete's foot is contagious and can spread through contact with an infected person or from contact with contaminated surfaces, such as towels, floors and shoes.
What's the longest athlete's foot can last? ›
If athlete's foot does not get better in 2 to 4 weeks with self-care, or frequently returns, see your provider. Your provider may prescribe: Antifungal medicines to take by mouth. Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections that occur from scratching.
Should I wear socks to bed with an athlete's foot? ›
If you have athlete's foot, it's a good idea to wear socks to bed, especially if you share your bed with another person. This can help prevent transmitting the fungus to others. Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection caused by a ringworm.
What does the worst case of athlete's foot look like? ›
The most severe form of tinea pedis infection, called ulcerative tinea pedis, appears as painful blisters, pus-filled bumps (pustules), and shallow open sores (ulcers). These lesions are especially common between the toes but may involve the entire sole.
Certain conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, among other things, can also look very much like Athlete's foot. Sometimes, if the skin barrier is compromised, a secondary bacterial infection can occur.
Can athlete's foot turn serious? ›
In severe cases, skin damaged by athlete's foot can become infected with bacteria. This can lead to cellulitis, which causes the skin to become red, hot and swollen.
Does hydrogen peroxide help athletes' foot? ›
Hydrogen peroxide kills the fungus that causes athlete's foot. It can also kill bacteria that live on the surface of the skin and can worsen athlete's foot or cause additional infections. Use hydrogen peroxide on athlete's foot two times per day until the infection is gone.
What not to do with foot fungus? ›
For control of athlete's foot infection, persons with active tinea pedis infection should: Keep feet clean, dry, and cool. Avoid using swimming pools, public showers, or foot baths.
Can vinegar cure athlete's foot? ›
As vinegar has antifungal properties, soaking the feet daily in a vinegar foot bath could help fight off fungal infections, such as athlete's foot. However, there is currently no reliable evidence to suggest that any home remedies, including vinegar, are useful in the treatment of athlete's foot.
How do you get rid of late stage athlete's foot? ›
Options include Lotrimin (clotrimazole) and Tinactin (tolnaftate). 9. Oral antifungals: These prescription drugs are used when topical antifungals fail. These are taken by mouth for two to six months.
Is it possible to get rid of Athlete's foot permanently? ›
To eradicate athlete's foot for good, you need to consistently maintain good foot hygiene, regularly sanitize your shoes, and use antifungal treatments as required. The aim is to create an environment where the fungus can't thrive.
How long does it take to get rid of a bad case of athlete's foot? ›
How Long Does Athlete's Foot Last? Most mild cases of athlete's foot clear up within 2 weeks. But treatment can go for several weeks or longer if the infection is more serious or affects the toenails.
Q. I have been struggling with persistent athlete's foot. I have tried several over-the-counter medications for several weeks without improvement. How can I rid myself of this rash.