Folks who suffer from foot fungus can quickly find their feet going numb or feeling itchy. Foot fungus is a common problem for athletes, but can affect pretty much anyone. Have you ever wondered what foot fungus is? We'll take a closer look. If you believe you're suffering a fungal infection, however, contact a medical professional quickly before it spreads. If you're dealing with foot fungus and live in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland, contact Podiatrist in Motion. Dr. Gregory Cardinal can help.

The Fungi Behind Athlete’s Foot

Foot fungus infections are caused by fungi. Some folks mistake fungi for plants, but they actually belong to an entirely different kingdom of life. The fungi kingdom includes a diverse range of organisms. Many of them are microscopic, however, some fungi have actually grown to cover thousands of acres of land.

Fungi often break down decomposing matter or feed parasitically off other organisms. This is how foot fungi live. They grow on the skin, typically on the feet, hands, or in moist, dark areas. Then they feed off our skin and body.

Several different types of foot fungi can infect the skin, including Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum. Animals can also suffer from similar fungal infections.

Dealing with foot fungus and live in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland? Contact Podiatrist in Motion. Dr. Cardinal can help.

Why is this Condition Called Athlete’s Foot?

Foot fungus is a relatively common condition that is often referred to as Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis if you’d prefer to be more scientific. Athlete’s foot is probably the most common term, and that’s because athletes rank among the most likely to suffer from this condition.

Why should that be the case? For one, athletes tend to sweat a lot, and thus their socks and shoes can be quite moist. This creates a perfect environment for fungi to thrive. Fungi can also spread relatively easily through locker rooms and similar environments.

That said, fungi are hardy microbes and they can infect non-athletes as well.

Treating Fungal Foot Infections

Unfortunately, fungi are typically sturdy, hardy organisms that can survive in a range of environments. Once they take root, they can be difficult to defeat. Anti-fungal medications can often be used to bring infections under control, however.

Even with anti-fungal medications, it often takes two weeks or more to clear up even mild cases of athlete’s foot. Serious cases may require several weeks or even months of treatment. If you’re suffering from a fungal skin infection, you should contact a medical professional quickly.

Dealing with foot fungus and live in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland? Contact Dr. Cardinal at Podiatrist in Motion by dialing (703) 879-5155.