FOOT ROT

 WHAT IS FOOT ROT?

Foot rot is a skin condition due to fungal infection. It is one of the most common skin conditions and frequently found among athletes. It can also be referred to as  Athlete’s foot

 

Causes of Foot Rot?

Foot Rot is medically known as tinea pedis. It is an infectious diseases caused by fungi and it's usually affect and takes root on the surface of the skin. The most common species of fungus that cause the infection is Trichophyton rubrum. This species can also invade the nails, causing fungal nail infections.

 

This foot condition is highly communicable and can be transmitted through direct skin contact with anyone who is infected. It can also spread through items which have been contaminated by a foot rot patient, such as clothes, shoes, or socks. It can also be transmitted through puddles of dirty water to the skin.

 

People who are highly exposed to the elements have a higher chance of getting foot rot. This includes military personnel who spend long hours in tropical rainforests, people who walk around barefooted at public gym showers and frequent swimmers.

People who have sweaty feet or a history of foot rot also have a higher chance for getting this infection. Immunocompromised individuals are highly susceptible to this condition as well.

What are the symptoms?

Some signs and symptoms of foot rot include:

 

• Macerated and peeling skin and raw wounds
• Itching sensation at the bottom of the feet
• Flaky and dry skin around the feet
• Blisters formation

What is the treatment?

If you think you may have foot rot, you should visit a foot specialist immediately. Active personnel are particularly susceptible to this issue and the problem can escalate quickly, causing you pain and discomfort during training. Delaying treatment is also a risk as the fungus can spread to other parts of your body or to others around you.

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A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat lower limb conditions, including fungal infections of the foot such as athlete’s foot. After examining your foot and any other afflicted areas, the podiatrist will determine the severity of the infection and recommend appropriate treatment. The cure for athlete’s foot can include topical or oral medications, the podiatrist will also advise you on foot hygiene to speed up the healing process and prevent the infection from getting worse.