Quick Treatment Methods for Athlete's Foot
Disease description:
I am 30 years old this year, and have been troubled by athlete's foot for a long time. My feet are always itchy, peeling, sometimes with small blisters, and they also have an unpleasant odor. I would like to know if there is any quick way to cure athlete's foot effectively?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Foot odor, known as athlete's foot, is a common skin disease caused by fungal infection. Treating athlete's foot requires attention to three aspects: cleanliness, antifungal treatment, and prevention of recurrence. Below is a quick and effective treatment method:
1. Cleanliness and Drying: Wash both feet daily with warm water and soap, especially between the toes. Then dry thoroughly, particularly the spaces between the toes, as a moist environment promotes fungal growth.
2. Antifungal Creams: Commonly used antifungal creams include ketoconazole, miconazole, terbinafine, and ciclopirox. Apply evenly on the affected area and continue using for a period of time to ensure complete elimination of the fungus.
3. Solutions and Washes: For interdigital-type athlete's foot, soak feet once daily for 15-20 minutes in potassium permanganate solution or lead acetate solution. These solutions have antibacterial and astringent effects and can effectively relieve symptoms of athlete's foot.
4. Oral Medications: For severe or recurrent cases of athlete's foot, doctors may recommend combining oral antifungal medications such as itraconazole and terbinafine. These medications work internally to eliminate fungi but may have side effects on the liver.
5. Wear Breathable Shoes and Socks: Choose socks made of breathable cotton or moisture-wicking materials and change them frequently. Avoid wearing shoes made of plastic or other non-breathable materials to reduce foot perspiration and dampness.
6. Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share slippers, towels, or foot basins with others to prevent cross-infection.
