What remedies can I use for itchy feet?
The symptom of itchiness in the feet is common to a variety of skin conditions, most of which are bacterial or fungal infections. To get an effective diagnosis, you should visit your doctor who will check for other symptoms, including any blisters, sores, or discoloration. However, chances are that you have athlete’s foot, which is the most common fungal infection to affect the skin on the feet. This condition, called tinea pedis, is caused by the trichophyton fungus and leads to redness and itching in the affected area. You may also notice some signs of skin scaling and flaking off between the toes. In more severe cases, fissures and cracks may form in the skin, which increases the risk of developing secondary infections. In most cases, a simple regime of treatment and preventative measures can get rid of athlete’s feet in a manner of days. However, if the infection takes longer than two weeks to cure, or if it reappears, you should consult a skin specialist.
Cause For Athletes Foot
The most common cause of athlete’s foot is prolonged exposure to moisture. This is typically seen when using enclosed footwear, especially in cases where physical exertion produces sweat. Such a wet and humid climate is ideal for fungal growth. Hence, the focus of the treatment is on keeping the feet dry and clean. You can use any over-the-counter fungal product, though powders are preferred since they can absorb moisture. Cornstarch can also be rubbed on the feet, since it has a strong tendency to absorb moisture. To destroy the fungi, soak your feet in warm water containing tea tree oil, which has excellent antifungal properties. Garlic is another natural treatment; it contains allicin, an effective antifungal substance. Simply mash some garlic cloves and rub the juicy pulp on the affected areas for fifteen minutes. An important point to remember is that any treatment should continue for at least three days after symptoms have gone, to ensure that all fungi are destroyed.
Fungal Infection Treatment
Preventative measures for athlete’s foot are based on maintaining good hygiene. Feet must be washed twice a day with warm water and a medicated soap, and dried thoroughly. Keep a separate towel for the feet to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Socks made of natural fibers such as cotton should be used, since the material ‘breathes’ better than most artificial fibers. If possible, wear open footwear and avoid synthetic materials such as rubber and vinyl.
