Do you feel a persistent, annoying itch between your toes that just won’t seem to go away, or noticed peeling skin on your feet? Those are only a couple of the symptoms of foot fungus, and it’s unfortunately incredibly common.
However, there’s still a lot of confusion around what it is, how you get it, and, perhaps most importantly, whether you can pass it on to others. To that end, read on below for the answers to “is foot fungus contagious?” and other frequently asked questions:
What Exactly Is Foot Fungus?
Foot fungus, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that thrives in moist, warm environments such as sweaty socks, damp shoes, and locker room floors. The most common culprit is a fungus known as tinea pedis, which feeds on keratin, a protein found in your skin.
When it takes hold, you might notice itching, redness, peeling skin, and even a burning sensation. Some people who suffer from athlete’s foot get small blisters or cracks in the skin, especially between the toes. It can be incredibly uncomfortable, but fortunately it is usually easily treatable with the right products.
Is Foot Fungus Contagious?
Yes, foot fungus is definitely contagious. You can catch it by coming into direct contact with the fungus, either from someone who already has it or from a surface where the fungus is hanging out. That includes gym floors, public showers, pool decks, and even towels or socks.
The fungus spreads more easily in damp environments. If your feet are often sweaty or you wear tight closed shoes all day, you’re creating the perfect environment for it to grow and spread. Sharing shoes, socks, or nail clippers can also put you at risk.
How Do You Avoid Catching Foot Fungus?
While it’s contagious, you can drastically lower your chances of getting foot fungus by keeping your feet clean and dry. Other ways of preventing catching it is changing your socks daily (more often if they get sweaty), letting your shoes air out, and wearing flip-flops or shower shoes in public areas like pools or gyms.
Another often overlooked tip is to dry your feet completely after showering, especially in the spaces between your toes. Fungi love moisture, so giving them less of it is a simple way to stop them in their tracks.
Can Foot Fungus Spread to Other Parts of the Body?
Unfortunately, yes, foot fungus isn’t limited to attacking your feet. If left untreated, it can spread to your toenails, causing thick, yellow, brittle nails: a condition known as onychomycosis. It can also spread to your hands if you scratch your feet and then touch another area of skin.
Some people even develop jock itch because the same fungus that causes athlete’s foot can spread to the groin area. This is why it’s so important to wash your hands after touching your feet and to treat foot fungus as soon as possible.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Foot Fungus?
Ignoring foot fungus isn’t going to make it go away. If anything, it usually gets worse from there. The infection can spread, the itching can intensify, and cracks in the skin can lead to bacterial infections. That’s when things can get painful and require stronger prescription treatments.
For people with diabetes or weakened immune systems, untreated foot fungus can be even riskier. Small cracks in the skin can become serious entry points for infections that may require medical attention.
What Are the Best Ways To Treat Foot Fungus?
The good news is that most cases of athlete’s foot respond well to over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. These treatments usually take a few weeks, and it’s important to keep using them for as long as the package recommends, even if your symptoms clear up sooner. Prescription-strength creams or oral antifungal medications can tackle more stubborn cases.
Here at Dr. Anti Fungus, we’ve developed a complete system that can help you kick foot fungus for good. Experience immediate relief from symptoms of foot fungus with our physician-developed antifungal foot soak, our Dr. Anti Fungus Hand + Foot Soak, then use our Hand + Foot Spray for portable protection against fungi.
Our unique formulas are developed by podiatrists, convenient, and easy to use!
When Should I See a Doctor?
Most of the time, foot fungus is a nuisance rather than a serious health problem. However, there are times when you should get professional help. If you notice severe redness, swelling, pus, or pain, you may have developed a bacterial infection on top of the fungal one. People with diabetes should also always take foot problems seriously and see a doctor quickly.
Foot fungus is common, contagious, and frustrating, but it’s also very treatable. Use our Dr. Anti Fungus products today to help address it quickly and break the cycle of recurring fungal infections!