Foot fungus

What is foot fungus?

Foot fungus, also called swimmer's eczema, is an infection caused by a fungus on your skin. This fungus thrives in moist places and is common in areas such as swimming pools and shower rooms. Although the name swimmer's eczema suggests it's eczema, it's really a fungal infection.

The first symptoms of foot fungus are often white flakes or sheets between your toes. Sometimes you can see that the skin is red, lighter or darker than the rest of your foot. You may also develop fissures (cracks) and sometimes feel a burning sensation or see small blisters. A common additional symptom is an unpleasant odor from your feet.

How does foot fungus occur?

Fungi are everywhere, including on your skin. Normally, this does not cause problems because your skin has a protective layer of fat. If this protective layer is weakened, the fungus can invade the skin and cause symptoms. This can happen, for example, if you:

• often take long showers or baths.
• Use a lot of soap or shampoo, which dries out your skin.
• Worn tight, poorly ventilated shoes, such as rubber or plastic shoes.
• Have a weakened immune system due to, for example, diabetes or chemotherapy.

Is foot fungus contagious?

Yes, foot fungus is contagious. You can contract the fungus by coming into contact with dander from someone else who has the fungus. These flakes are often left on floors of swimming pools, shower rooms and gyms. If you walk barefoot there, you can become infected.

Treating foot fungus: What can you do yourself?

Foot fungus is usually easy to treat yourself. It is important to prevent the fungus from spreading to others or to other parts of your body. Here are some tips that can help:

• Wash your feet daily, preferably without soap. If you do use soap, rinse your feet well to remove all soap residue.
• Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Wear clean, cotton or wool socks daily that ventilate well and absorb moisture.
• Wear airy shoes, preferably leather or linen, and change shoes every day. Avoid shoes made of rubber or plastic.
• Use slippers in public areas, such as showers and swimming pools, to avoid infection.

Medications for foot fungus

In addition to hygienic measures, you can treat foot fungus with medications you can buy from us without a prescription. These medications aim to kill the fungus and allow your skin to recover. There are two main types of medications available: creams for on the skin and pills.

Foot fungus creams

A cream containing an antifungal agent is often the first step in treating foot fungus. The most common creams contain terbinafine, miconazole or clotrimazole. These creams kill the fungus and allow your skin to heal.

• Terbinafine cream: You only need to use this cream once a day for 1 to 2 weeks. It is a powerful remedy that works quickly. You don't need to use the cream for more than 2 weeks.
• Miconazole or clotrimazole: You need to apply these creams twice a day for 2 to 6 weeks. Even when the spots are gone, you should continue applying for at least another week to make sure the fungus is completely gone.

It is important to apply the cream not only on the visible spots, but also 2 inches around them. This is because the fungus may have spread farther than you think. Apply the cream thinly, as a thick layer can irritate the skin.

Pills for foot fungus

If the foot fungus is deeper in the skin or if you also have nail fungus, a cream alone may not be enough. Your doctor may then prescribe pills, such as terbinafine tablets. You take one pill a day, usually for a period of two weeks. Make sure you complete the course of treatment completely, even if the symptoms disappear earlier.

Pills against fungi are strong drugs and can have side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea and, in rare cases, liver problems. In addition, they can affect the effect of other medications, such as blood thinners or antidepressants. Therefore, always discuss with your doctor if you are taking other medications.

When should you see a doctor?

In most cases you can treat foot fungus yourself, but sometimes it is wise to see a doctor:

• If the foot fungus does not disappear after using a cream.
• If you still have symptoms after taking pills for two weeks.
• If you suffer from nail fungus that does not heal on its own.

The family doctor may be able to refer you to a dermatologist or prescribe other medication.