Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common skin disease caused by fungal infection of the feet. Fungal infections can recur, hence athlete’s foot cannot be cured, but it can be treated. Treatment for athlete’s foot involves maintaining personal hygiene and not sharing personal items such as towels, bath tubs, shoes, etc. Shoes should be breathable and well-ventilated to reduce sweating. Generally, treatment is based on the type of athlete’s foot. For moccasin-type athlete’s foot, talcum powder or cornstarch can be used. For vesicular type, topical antifungal creams such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or clotrimazole (Lotrimin) may be prescribed. For scaly and keratotic types, topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone may also be used along with the antifungals. Treatment usually takes around two weeks.
Can Athlete’s Foot Be Cured?
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