How To Treat Athlete's Foot

Deciding how to treat athlete's foot can be a burden. Treating athlete's foot can be as easy as making a few lifestyle changes. Practicing good foot hygiene can take away all of your worries. With the right tools you will no longer need to deal with embarrassing foot odor or itching again.

To treat athlete's foot, you will need:

• antifungal cream
• well ventilated shoes
• prescription medicine

1. Purchase an antifungal cream. Antifungal creams can be purchased at any local drug store. These creams are designed to help control the infection. These creams include key ingredients such as miconazole, clotrimazole, and tolnaftate. It is best to use these creams for one to two weeks after the infection is cured. Continuing treatment will prevent the infection from returning.
2. Keep your feet clean and dry. This seems simple enough, but many people are too busy to care for their feet properly. When treating athlete's foot it is imperative to wash your feet often. You can wash them with basic soap and water. Washing them at least two times a day is best. After your feet are clean, dry them well. Moisture is one of the causes of athletes foot.
3. Wear clean socks. Socks usually absorb sweat throughout the day. This moisture is a main cause of athlete's foot. To keep fungus from growing, change your socks a couple of times a day. Cotton socks are the best choice, because they allow your feet to breathe. They are practical and inexpensive, so stock up.
4. Wear well ventilated shoes. Plastic lined shoes will increase the chances of getting and keeping athlete's foot. These types of shoes hold moisture and take a long time to dry. Shoes made out of natural materials are usually well ventilated and allow the feet to stay dry. Switching out shoes from day to day will also allow your shoes to fully dry before they are worn again.
5. Get a prescription. If the athlete's foot is severe and does not respond to self treatment see your doctor. Athlete's foot should clear up after two to four weeks of treatment. If it does not clear up, a stronger medication may be needed. The doctor may prescribe ketoconazole or terbinafine.
6. Take preventative measures. Use antifungal powders in your shoes daily to suck up the moisture. These powders can also prevent itching and irritations. You can put the powder directly in your shoes or on your feet.

Reference:

Athlete's Foot