Ever heard of “athlete’s foot” but thought you can’t have it because you’re not an athlete or sporty person? Heard of the more technical term “tinea” ? Heard of a thing called “ringworm” (it’s definitely the most off putting sounding of the terms) that you can get at places like the gym? 🤔
Well, athlete’s foot, tine & ringworm of the foot are all basically the same condition. “Tinea” is the general medical term for a fungal infection, “ringworm” is the common name for that infection, and “athlete’s foot” (tinea pedis) is specifically used when that infection occurs on the feet. But it can get confusing when that itching, burning, cracking, and scaling skin, often found between the toes or on the soles, can be referred to by a few different names. Right?!?! 😅👣
The good news is, regardless of what the packaging calls it, usually an anti fungal cream can nip it – whatever it’s called. So no, you don’t need to be an athlete to use an athlete’s foot anti fungal cream – a lot of it is just branding. Look for the term tinea in the description, as tinea can also turn up anywhere on the body – tinea pedis is the specific medical term for tinea on the feet. Some popular forms of antigungal creams include Terbinafine (Lamisil), Clotrimazole (Lotrimin), Miconazole (Micatin), or Tolnaftate. Speak to your Podiatrists or Pharmacist if you have questions. 👩⚕️👨⚕️
All of these terms are dermatophytes – a group of fungi (specifically molds) that cause superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails. They thrive in damp, warm places… like your feet! 🙃
What’s most important to avoid getting tinea/athletes foot/ringworm? Keep moisture away! Fungus thrives in moisture. Dry between the toes thoroughly after showering and consider using antifungal powder to reduce moisture. You can also get tinea treatments in the form of sprays & powder (again, often branded as athlete’s foot due to a heightened cases in athletes and active people). 👟
Got any more questions about the confusing-ness of terminology around fungal foot infections? Best prevention tips? Let us know! ⬇
Struggling with fungal foot infections? Book a Podiatry appointment in Thornbury today! Book online or call 9480 4935.