Athlete’s foot is a common fungus infection that usually occurs on the skin between the toes. It lives in the outer layers of skin and occurs in the feet because shoes create the right type of environment for fungus to multiply. The name ‘athlete’s foot’ came about because it spread rampantly between athlete’s who used public facilities.

Tinea pedis is the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. It can be found in public facilities such as pools, showers, spas and locker rooms.

Athlete’s foot is extremely uncomfortable and the skin often becomes red, swollen and itchy. Itching is usually at it’s worst between the toes. A rash often occurs on the side and bottoms of the feet leaving them dry and scaled. When this occurs it is often referred to as moccasin. When athlete’s foot is at it’s worst blisters or cracks can form between the toes.

The blisters often crack open and become raw. The area then swells up and becomes extremely painful. If you do not treat athlete’s foot soon enough it can spread from between the toes to the rest of your foot. In fact, it can spread to other parts of your body when you itch it and spread the infection with your fingers.

It is common for the toenails to become thick and have a yellow tint to them. They can also become infected with a toenail fungus. Athlete’s foot can be spread by contaminated bedsheets or clothing. If left untreated, athlete’s foot can stick around for a very long time. Allergies, eczema and other conditions can cause symptoms that are similar to athlete’s foot.

There are plenty of OTC treatments available for athlete’s foot. If you are suffering from a severe case then the doctor might prescribe either a cream or oral anti-fungal drug to kick the infection. If the prescription does not stop the infection then you should seek help from a podiatrist. Keep in mind that it is possible athletes foot is a warning sign that your immune system has been compromised by a more serious threat such as AIDS or diabetes.

There are also several holistic remedies that can help to knock athlete’s foot out, for good. Lemon grass, Tabebuia impetiginosa and Calendula officinalis will all help to kill off the bacteria and fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Make sure you buy your natural remedies from a reputable dealer and don’t forget to consult your doctor if you are dealing with a more serious case of athlete’s foot.