Athlete's foot and frequency therapy

**Encyclopaedia entry: athlete's foot** **Definition:** Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection of the skin that affects the feet. It often occurs between the toes and can spread to the soles and sides of the feet. Athlete's foot is contagious and can be transmitted by direct contact or by contact with contaminated surfaces. **Causes:** Athlete's foot is caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. Common risk factors are: - Walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools, showers and changing rooms - Wearing tight, air-impermeable shoes - Feet sweating - Sharing towels, shoes or socks **Symptoms:** - Itching, burning and stinging between the toes - Redness and scaling of the skin - Cracked or flaky skin, especially on the soles of the feet or between the toes - Blistering or weeping sores - Thickened, discoloured or brittle nails if the infection affects the toenails **Diagnosis:** Diagnosis is usually made by physical examination of the affected skin. In some cases, a skin sample may be taken and examined microscopically or cultured to identify the fungus. **Treatment:** - **Topical antifungals:** Creams, ointments or sprays applied directly to the affected skin. - **Oral antifungals:** In severe or persistent cases, tablets may be prescribed. - **Hygiene measures:** Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, and wear clean, dry socks and well-ventilated shoes. **Prevention:** - Wear slippers in public showers and swimming pools - Change socks daily and avoid wearing damp shoes - Use foot powder to keep feet dry - Avoid sharing personal items such as towels and shoes **What to know:** - Athlete's foot is common worldwide and can affect people of all ages, but is more common in adolescents and adults. - If left untreated, athlete's foot can affect people of all ages If left untreated, athlete's foot can lead to bacterial infections or spread to other parts of the body. **Research:** Research on athlete's foot focuses on developing new antifungal drugs, improving diagnostic methods and investigating the resistance mechanisms of fungi to existing treatments.