When thinking about your foot problem you probably assume that it can only affect you, and in most cases that’s true. But in some cases, a
foot infection (usually a foot fungus) can spread to another person with whom you have close contact. Learn how to keep your foot infection from affecting your loved one and the treatment options that are available at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut in New Milford, CT.
What Causes a Foot Infection?
A fungal infection happens when the foot is exposed to moist, warm environments and isn’t properly cleaned. Walking around in public showers is a common cause. Fungal infections of the feet are common in athletes and swimmers. Some foot infections develop due to a wound that has not properly healed (more common in patients who require diabetic foot care). In normal cases, a wound heals on its own if there is healthy blood circulation, but if it doesn’t, there’s a risk of a bacterial infection.
How It Can Spread to a Partner
Foot fungi can easily spread to a partner when you sleep in the same bed or wear the same shoes. Sharing a shower with someone who has athlete’s foot is also a risk. In a rare case where two partners have open wounds on their feet, an untreated infection of the foot can be transferred from one person to the other. It’s important for any affected person to get proper treatment to avoid duplicating the problem.
Foot Infection Treatments
After the infected foot is properly cleaned, your New Milford, CT podiatrist will treat it with a topical or oral antibiotic medication. Some severe foot infections may require surgery or removal of a nail. If your partner has been affected, ensure that he or she receives proper care from a podiatrist as well to avoid reoccurring infections.
Schedule an Urgent Podiatrist Visit
Do not let a foot infection get worse. See a podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut in New Milford, CT for immediate help. Call (860) 355-3139 today for an exam and treatment by Dr. Joseph R. Treadwell or Dr. Christian E. Davis.
When it comes to foot health and infections, understanding the nuances of fungal infections, their causes, transmission, and treatments is crucial. Fungal infections affecting the feet, commonly known as athlete's foot or foot fungus, are more than just a nuisance. They're often a result of exposure to warm, moist environments, especially in communal areas like public showers. This exposure can pave the way for fungal growth, particularly in individuals like athletes and swimmers.
For instance, fungal infections aren't solely caused by external exposure; sometimes, they arise due to improperly healed wounds, a common occurrence in individuals requiring diabetic foot care. The lack of proper healing can lead to bacterial infections, complicating the situation further.
The contagious nature of foot fungi is a significant concern, especially in close-contact scenarios. Sharing shoes, sleeping in the same bed, or using the same shower as someone with athlete's foot significantly heightens the risk of transmission. Moreover, in rare cases where both partners have open wounds on their feet, an untreated infection in one person can spread to the other.
When it comes to treatment, proper cleaning of the infected foot is essential, followed by the administration of topical or oral antibiotic medications. In severe cases, surgery or nail removal might be necessary. It's crucial not only to treat the affected individual but also to ensure proper care for partners or close contacts to prevent recurring infections.
The urgency of addressing foot infections cannot be overstated. Seeking immediate help from a podiatrist, such as those at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut in New Milford, CT, is paramount. Dr. Joseph R. Treadwell or Dr. Christian E. Davis can provide the necessary examination and treatment to prevent the infection from worsening.
If you or a loved one suspects a foot infection, it's essential to act promptly to avoid complications and potential transmission to others. Contacting the Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut at (860) 355-3139 for an urgent podiatrist visit demonstrates a proactive approach to managing foot health.
The information in the provided article covers various critical aspects of foot infections, including their causes, modes of transmission, and treatment options. Understanding these concepts is vital for maintaining foot health and preventing the spread of infections among close contacts.
