Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis):
A Guide for Teens
What is Athlete's Foot?
The medical name for athlete's foot is Tinea pedis. Athlete's foot is an itchy rash on the feet. You don't have to be an athlete to have athlete's foot.
What causes Athlete's Foot?
Athlete's foot is an infection of the foot caused by fungus. It is most common in male teenagers and young men. Fungus is normally present on our skin. Under the right conditions this fungus can grow and cause the symptoms of athlete's foot. Fungus usually grows best in dark, moist places (like inside your shoes). Not everyone gets athlete's foot. Fungus seems to grow better on some people than others.
What are the symptoms of Athlete's Foot?
Common symptoms of athlete's foot are:
How is Athlete's Foot diagnosed?
Athlete's foot can be diagnosed by scraping the affected skin and looking at it under the microscope to see if the fungus is present. The scraping can also be placed in special growth material to grow the fungus. Not all itchy rashes of the feet are athlete's foot.
How is Athlete's Foot treated?
There are several types of creams, powders, and lotions you can buy in a drug store to treat athlete's foot. These work by killing the fungus. Sometimes fungus doesn't go away even after using these treatments. You should see your provider if your athlete's foot doesn't go away or if it gets worse.
How can I prevent Athlete's foot?
You can help prevent athlete's foot by keeping your feet clean and dry. Follow these simple instructions:
Updated 2/5/2008
Related Information:
|
Looking for other health info? Check our A-to-Z Index. ©2008 Young Men's Health Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.
About Us Health Guides By Topic
|
Printer Friendly
