Healthy Feet on the Street: Fungal Infections

A common concern on the street is athlete's foot, also called "tinea pedis". Most of these infections are preventable and treatable with a conscious effort placed on good foot care.

Fungus thrives in warm, dark and damp conditions so keeping feet clean and dry is essential to reducing the risk of contamination. Common symptoms of foot fungus are itchy, burning, or stinging skin; scaly, peeling or cracked skin between the toes; the skin may become dry and scaly and even blister; skin may become red, purple or grey, depending on skin colour.

To prevent fungal infection, clean and dry your feet daily and put on clean socks. Let your feet air dry for 10 minutes, ensuring the toes are dry before donning your socks after a shower, or longer if they have been immersed for longer periods of time. Moisture between the toes is very common. Even when the feet are dried after a shower, the moisture that is absorbed into the skin gets locked in between the toes once socks are put on. The water logged skin separates from the flesh, then, once it dries, a crack is formed creating an entry for fungus and bacteria to grow, which becomes itchy and spreads. Avoid sharing towels or showers with people who may have athlete's foot. If you suspect a fungal infection, apply anti fungal cream, spray or powder on your feet and shoes.

It is possible that these efforts are ineffective, however, if you have a weak immune system such as those with diabetes, heavy drug or alcohol use, malnutrition, or other health problems. It is important to see that fungal infections are treated promptly as they can lead to more serious infections such as cellulitis. The same fungus can also spread to other body parts such as the groin, known as "jock itch". Be sure to contact your doctor or nurse practitioner if the infection persists or worsens after two weeks, despite these attempts at relief.

Written with love,

Raquel

MANNA Foot Care Nurse

MANNA Homeless Society provides foot care to those in the community who don't have access to health services, thanks to the generosity of people like Raquel.