Back to Training Tips Part 1
Back to Training Tips Part 1
As we all know a training session works up a good sweat. What some of us don’t realise is that this can contribute to Athlete’s foot and other fungal complaints
Fungal infections can be quite common, particularly in men. They occur when there is a overgrowth of fungus, this is common in the feet and groin area because fungi grow in moist and warm areas such as between the toes and skin folds.
As people return to training, outdoor and indoor activities it is common to see a rise in these types of complaints in men. Know what to watch out for:
Athletes Foot (Tinea Pedis):
- Itching on the foot, particularly between the toes
- Burning sensation due to the itch
- Scaling or peeling of the skin around the toes and feet
- Bleeding of cracked skin
- Soreness of the skin/area
Athlete’s Foot is treatable and preventable. It can be treated with over the counter products such as Desenex Powder or Daktarin cream for fungal infections. It is important to remember that these treatments are relatively safe for most people, but if you are taking any medication you should check with a Pharmacist before starting treatment.
Athlete’s foot can spread easily, from one person to another or from one part of your body to another. This can often lead to other Fungal infections, such as in the toenails, hands or very commonly in men it can lead to Tinea Cruris. Tinea Cruris is often referred to as ‘Jock Itch’. This can be any fungal irritation around the groin, thigh, or buttocks area. Its signs and symptoms are almost identical with Athlete’s foot, but it is commonly more irritated after exercise due to sweating. Luckily it is treated in the same way as Athlete’s foot and can be prevented too!
Here are some tips for preventing these skin irritations:
Avoid:
- Sharing towels, socks or shoes with others
- Walking barefoot or in flip flops in communal changing areas/gym showers
- Shoes that are too tight or cause you to sweat more
- Scratching the area- this will cause increased spreading of the infection and pain
Practise good foot hygiene:
- Dry your feet well, especially between the toes after washing
- Wear clean socks daily, changing more frequently if you have done a training session or exercise
- Go barefoot at home to help prevent excess sweating of the feet
- Use separate towels for your feet and the rest of your body
- Wash hands after applying any treatment to the feet
Pharmamale is an extension of O’Casey’s Pharmacy, part of C&D medical group, these products and advice are available from one of the 13 Irish Community Pharmacies, click HERE to find out more.
If you want to learn more about Athlete’s foot you can click HERE
If you want to learn more about general foot health click HERE