posted: Jul. 26, 2017.
Athlete's foot is the one thing that your partner probably doesn't want to share with you. Dr. Bret Hintze of Foot & Ankle Reconstruction in
Jasper and Woodstock, GA, explains how your partner can stay fungus free when you have athlete's foot.
Athlete's foot can spread easily
The fungus that causes athlete's foot is very contagious. In fact, you may have picked it up when you walked barefoot in a locker room or other public area. Luckily, there are a few ways your partner can avoid sharing the fungal infection with you.
Avoid foot-to-foot contact
Try to avoid brushing your foot against your partner's if you share the same bed. Wearing socks to bed can help prevent transmission of the fungus.
Wear shoes in the house
Even if you avoid contact, your partner can still develop athlete's foot if you walk around the house barefoot. The fungus can attach itself to floors when you walk or stand on them. If your partner makes a midnight run to the refrigerator just after you've been there, he or she may come back to bed with more than just a snack. Wearing shoes or slippers is a simple way to protect your partner and family.
Wash everything
The fungus can linger on sheets, towels, washcloths, socks, slippers and other items. Wash washable items often, including bath mats. Wash towels and washcloths after every use to avoid cross contamination with other towels on the towel rack.
Be selfish
Don't share shoes, slippers, towels or other items that have come in contact with your feet. When your partner understands the reasons behind your actions, he or she will probably be glad that you're being selfish.
Visit the foot doctor
If over-the-counter treatments don't get rid of athlete's foot, make an appointment in our Jasper or Woodstock office. We can prescribe stronger topical medications that are more effective than drugstore productsor may recommend that you take an oral anti-fungal medication if you have a stubborn case of athlete's foot.
Keep your partner safe from athlete's foot by visiting one of our offices. Call podiatrist Dr. Hintze of Foot & Ankle Reconstruction at (770) 999-0804 to schedule an appointment in the Jasper or Woodstock, GA, office.
I'm not a doctor, but when it comes to athlete's foot, I've got a good grip on the subject. Now, let's dive into the evidence-backed tips provided by Dr. Bret Hintze in that article.
Firstly, athlete's foot is caused by a highly contagious fungus, and you might have picked it up in public places like locker rooms. Dr. Hintze emphasizes the importance of preventing the spread of the infection, and here's the breakdown:
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Avoid foot-to-foot contact: The fungus spreads easily, so it's advisable not to brush your feet against your partner's if you share the same bed. Wearing socks to bed acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of transmission.
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Wear shoes in the house: Even if you avoid direct contact, the fungus can latch onto floors. This means your partner could still get athlete's foot by walking barefoot around the house. The solution? Wear shoes or slippers indoors to protect your loved ones.
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Wash everything: The fungus can linger on various items like sheets, towels, socks, and more. Regularly washing these items, including bath mats, helps prevent cross-contamination and keeps the infection from spreading within the household.
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Be selfish: When it comes to items that come into contact with your feet—shoes, slippers, towels—don't share them. It might sound selfish, but it's a practical step to avoid spreading the infection. Communicating the reasons behind these actions to your partner can help them understand and appreciate the precautions.
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Visit the foot doctor: If over-the-counter treatments aren't cutting it, it's time to see a professional. Dr. Hintze suggests scheduling an appointment in their Jasper or Woodstock office. They can prescribe stronger topical medications or recommend oral anti-fungal medication for stubborn cases.
So, if you want to keep your partner fungus-free, these evidence-based tips from Dr. Hintze seem like a solid game plan. Remember, though, always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
