Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects skin on the feet and can spread to toenails and hands. The itchy, dry patches and cracks on soles and between toes can make it difficult or painful to walk, which is why it’s important to seek help from a foot doctor as soon as possible. Still, the best way to treat a disease is to prevent it, so take the precautions below to reduce your likelihood of contracting this unpleasant condition. 

4 Athlete’s Foot Prevention Tips

1. Don’t Share Personal Items

Athlete’s foot can spread through contact with other people, so avoid sharing certain items. Dead skin flakes of infected people and fungal spores can travel on socks, towels, and inside shoes. To avoid potential exposure, don’t loan out or borrow these items. 

2. Dress Wounds

If you have a cut on your foot, make sure to clean and bandage it and follow any other instructions from your foot doctor before putting on socks and shoes. Otherwise, you increase your risk of contracting athlete’s foot. Uncontrolled bleeding could also create the damp conditions that allow the fungus to thrive.    

3. Wear Flip-Flops in Public Showers

The fungus survives in moist conditions, which means you could pick up the spores on the soles of your feet when walking in common showers or locker rooms. These places are typically found at swimming pools, beaches, spas, and gyms. To avoid potential contact with the fungus, wear flip-flops on damp public floors or avoid them altogether by showering at home instead. 

4. Avoid Moisture Buildup 

Feet often sweat when inside shoes and socks all day. To prevent fungal infections, use dry foot powder, which will absorb moisture from perspiration. Wear sandals when the weather permits to give your feet a chance to breathe. Socks made of acrylic fiber will also keep moisture away from the skin.

If the steps above aren’t effective and you do contract this condition, turn to the experts at Advanced Foot Care Center of Rochester for treatment. These foot doctors are committed to providing Monroe County, NY, residents with the care they need to improve their quality of life. Trust them to provide strong antifungal medications and additional treatments to get rid of your infection. Their staff will also share advice to help you pick comfortable and breathable shoes. To schedule an appointment at their Rochester or Fairport facility, call (585) 249-0020. Visit the foot doctor online to read feedback from past patients.