Let’s talk about TINEA   

What is it?

Tinea pedis or tinea as it is more commonly known is actually a fungal infection of the skin.

It presents in the clinic a lot in the summer and we’re getting deep into the spring so the heat going to start coming on and this condition can start to flare up a bit now.

Where on my foot will it be?

So the most common places that we see tinea is:

• in between the toes or
• under the feet.
• you can get it anywhere but that’s where it tends to come up especially in podiatric setting. 

What does it look like?

Between the toes:

• you might notice white,
• wet skin now that can just be white, , 

TIP: wet skin can encourage tinea or fungal infection to present

Underneath the foot:

• redness of the skin
• little red dots dryness of the skin
• peeling
• blistering
• it’s very common to get itching

**Now you don’t need all the symptoms even one or two is an indicator for tinea**

Where does it come from?

The most common places you will get tinea is in a communal area:   

• swimming pools
• public showers (especially if you’re not wearing thongs)
• if you have very sweaty skin
• wearing work boots all day – this encourages moisture and tinea loves this environment

How can you prevent tinea?

At home tips:

• dry between toes well after showering
• if you skin is still wet use a drying agent such as betadine to encourage drying of the area
• we do not recommend powders as they can clump between the toes and increase moisture
• breathable socks and
• change your socks regularly (at least daily)
• protect everyone at home, yourself or anyone else that’s using the same showers as you by wear your thongs (this helps to prevent spread of infection

Hot tip: even after your tinea has cleared, continue to wear thongs in communal areas to prevent re-contraction!

What do Podiatrists do for tinea?

As for podiatry can help:

• diagnose the condition properly because there are a lot of conditions that look like it whether it’s psoriasis, eczema, an allergic reaction or another rare skin condition
• prescribe the right treatment for the tinea (spray, cream or both)
• we can reduce the skin by opening it up so the treatment can penetrate effectively

 

To find out more watch Caelin’s video on tinea: https://youtu.be/dZCJdQd-kcQ

If you think you might have tinea click the link to book your appointment now: https://holisticfootclinic.com.au/booking/