types of foot fungus

types of foot fungus

Annoying and uncomfortable feet? What’s the reason for foot problems? Have you ever thought of foot fungal infection? Foot fungus is a common infection, not a severe medical condition. However, the fungal infection causes discomfort, affecting the outer layers of the skin and nails on the feet.

Different types of foot fungus grow in moist and warm environments. Tinea pedis, or Athlete’s foot, and Onychomycosis are the most common foot infections among adults. Although foot fungus is not a severe condition, it needs appropriate treatment because it can be contagious.

Dr KP Meda is a leading podiatrist in Dubai with unmatched expertise in foot and ankle treatment. With years of foot and ankle treatment expertise, the doctor ensures precise diagnosis and specialized treatment.

Read more about the different types of foot fungus and when to consult a doctor!

Also read: bunion surgery in Dubai

Types of Foot Fungus

Foot fungus occurs due to moisture-loving fungi. Following proper hygiene can limit the risk of foot fungal infections. The popular types of foot fungus include,
Tinea Pedis or Athlete’s foot

Tinea Pedis is an infection

caused by dermatophyte fungi. The fungi require keratin for growth and infect the hair, nails, and skin. An athlete’s foot usually manifests between the toes. Tinea Pedis is a contagious infection that spreads through infected surfaces or person-to-person contact.

The fungi thrive in familiar places such as pools and locker rooms. Furthermore, it’s easily transmitted through sheets, towels, or socks who had the fungal infection. The foot typically has rashes, itching sensation, and scaling. The symptoms vary according to different types of Athlete’s foot infections.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a fungus that affects toenails or fingernails. It’s also known as toenail fungus, finger fungus, or tinea unguium. The toenail fungus is caused by a dermatophyte that requires protein keratin for growth. Almost 90% of onychomycosis infections are caused by dermatophytes.

The fungus can change your nails’ appearance by turning them yellow, brown, or white, detaching from the nail bed, thickening the nail structure, creating breaks or cracks, and making clouds in certain spots. Toenail fungus is contagious, spreading from one person to another or if you touch the infected space. Finger fungus requires a prolonged treatment process to achieve a successful recovery.

Know more about: ingrown nail treatment dubai

Treatment for different types of foot fungus

After the necessary diagnosis, doctors follow a therapeutic approach depending on the severity of the fungal infection. According to research, doctors recommend topical antifungal medications like lotions, creams, or sprays to apply to the infected area. These products eliminate the risk of fungus growth and alleviate the symptoms.

Toenail fungus treatment requires a doctor’s attention. Unlike tinea pedis, early detection of toenail fungus can be treated with antifungal medications. In some instances, like diabetes, finger fungus recurs and requires follow-up treatment for efficient recovery. In rare cases, doctors suggest a surgical intervention to avoid repeated infections.

How to prevent fungal infections?

  • Follow the below steps to prevent foot fungal infections.
  • Maintain good hygiene – wash your feet and keep them clean.
  • Wear appropriate footwear – make it lightweight and breathable.
  • If it’s sweaty, change your socks regularly.
  • Use alternate shoes so they can dry out.
  • Use waterproof shoes to protect your feet in shower rooms and pools
  • Avoid sharing your socks, towels, and shoes with a person who has a fungal infection.

When home remedies and preventive measures fail to protect your feet or the symptoms worsen, it’s crucial to consult a podiatrist.

Suppose you have any existing medical conditions like diabetes, bleeding along the nails, difficulty walking, and swelling or pain in the nails. In that case, you have to consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Get rid of Foot fungal infection with Dr KP Meda, a Podiatrist in Dubai.
Common types of foot fungus, such as tinea pedis and Onychomycosis, are widespread and associated with a higher risk of infections. If you notice changes to your nail color or any other critical symptoms, seek a doctor’s advice immediately.

If you’re unable to find relief from foot fungal infections, Dr. KP Meda can help you assess the condition and ensure the best treatment to get back healthy feet. With early diagnosis and effective treatment measures, we help you overcome foot fungal infections.

Talk to us to learn more about foot and ankle care! Schedule an appointment online!

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