Enemy athlete’s foot: symptoms & co. + differences to nail fungus

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Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) and nail fungus (onychomycosis) are widespread complaints that are not only unpleasant but also persistent While many people often use the terms athlete's foot and nail fungus interchangeably, there are important differences between them.

Athlete’s foot usually occurs in warm, moist areas such as between the toes,
while nail fungus changes the structure and appearance of the nails.

Both conditions can cause great discomfort and require specific treatment strategies to combat the fungus.

In this guide, we will explain how to recognize and treat both types of fungal infections . We will also give you useful tips on how to effectively prevent athlete's foot and nail fungus in order to keep your feet and nails healthy in the long term.

Athlete’s foot: recognize symptoms & know causes

Athlete's foot is a common and unpleasant condition caused by certain types of fungi . To effectively combat athlete's foot , it is important to recognize its symptoms early and understand the causes . This will not only help with treatment, but also with prevention of athlete's foot.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot:

Detecting the symptoms of athlete's foot early is key to preventing more serious skin problems. Here are the most common signs to look out for:

Itching and burning between the toes: Often the first sign of athlete's foot.
Redness and swelling: Affected areas may be red, swollen and warm.
Flaky skin: The skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet may be flaky and cracked.
Blisters: Sometimes small blisters form that can be itchy or painful.
Odor development: Infected feet can develop a strong, unpleasant odor.

Athlete’s foot causes:

To effectively treat athlete's foot and prevent it in the future, it is important to know the causes of this infection:

Humid environment: Fungi thrive in warm, humid environments such as swimming pools, showers and locker rooms.
Direct contact: Walking barefoot in shared spaces can increase the risk of infection.
Poor foot hygiene: Insufficient drying of the feet after washing promotes the development of fungi.
Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections such as athlete's foot.
Tight shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight or poorly ventilated can worsen the foot climate and promote the formation of fungus.

The 3 stages of athlete's foot: which symptoms occur when?

Athlete's foot develops in different stages , with each stage having its own symptoms. Recognizing these stages can be crucial to starting the right treatment early and thus avoiding more serious complications.

Early stage:

Severe itching: This is often the first sign and occurs particularly frequently between the toes.
Flaky skin: The skin in this area becomes flaky, which can lead to further dryness and cracking.
Red spots on the skin: These begin to flake and can spread across the feet.

Advanced stage

Cracks in the skin: These initially form in the callus and can be painful, especially when walking.
Weeping skin areas: Untreated areas begin to wee, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Pain when walking: The pain can be intense and is often a sign that the condition is advanced.

Late stage:

Blisters burst: When blisters burst, open wounds form. These facilitate the spread of fungal spores and other pathogens.
Erysipelas: A serious bacterial infection that often occurs between the toes, where athlete's foot is also common.
Chronic skin changes: Long-term athlete's foot can cause permanent skin damage. The skin can become thicker and remain permanently flaky, cracked or discolored.

To prevent this from happening, it is important to act immediately at the first signs of athlete's foot to prevent the spread and progression of the infection.

What types of athlete's foot are there?

Athlete's foot is caused by several different types of fungi that differ in their behavior and preferences for certain areas of the body. Doctors identify three main types of fungi that can cause athlete's foot in humans:

Filamentous fungi (dermatophytes), yeasts and very rarely molds.

Dermatophytes are the most common pathogens that cause athlete's foot. They have a special enzyme that can break down keratin - a substance that is found in abundance in the calluses, hair and under the fingernails and toenails. Dermatophytes feed on this horny substance and therefore prefer places where they find it in large quantities.
Mold is extremely rare in cases of athlete's foot and usually only occurs in combination with other types of fungi. They cannot break down the human horny substance themselves, but are occasionally found on areas of skin that are already infected, for example through contact with contaminated soil.
Yeast fungi, especially the best-known representative Candida albicans , prefer a warm, moist environment and are therefore more commonly found between the toes or in other skin folds. In addition to the skin, they can also attack mucous membranes and the digestive tract.

The different pathogens lead to different types of athlete's foot , which differ in specific symptoms and manifestations .

In the next section we will go into detail about the characteristic features of each type of athlete’s foot.

Interdigital mycosis: The athlete's foot in the spaces between the toes

Interdigital mycema, also known as tinea pedis interdigitalis , is a common form of athlete's foot that mainly manifests itself in the spaces between the toes .

This condition can cause discomfort and discomfort, so it is important to recognize symptoms early.

Itching and burning: The affected areas between the toes can itch intensely and cause burning, which is often the first sign of this mycosis.
Redness: Redness develops between the toes, which may indicate inflammation.
Flaky skin: The skin between the toes becomes flaky and may begin to peel, causing further irritation.
White blisters between the toes: Small white blisters may appear, which indicate a worsening of the infection and may become inflamed.
Bad smell: An unpleasant smell is often an accompanying symptom, as the moist environment promotes the proliferation of fungi.

Moccasin mycosis: widespread foot fungus infection

Moccasin mycosis, also called tinea pedis plantaris , is another form of athlete's foot that affects the soles and sides of the feet .

This type of athlete's foot can be stubborn and often requires a longer period of treatment than other forms. The fungus can also spread to the edges and tops of the feet.

Extensive redness and scaling: The skin on the soles of the feet and heels becomes red and scaly, often changing the overall appearance of the sole of the foot.
Thick, dry skin: The skin appears thicker and drier than usual, similar to a callus, which can cause discomfort when walking.
Cracks in the skin: Dryness can cause cracks, which can be painful and increase the risk of secondary infections.
Itching: Despite the dry appearance, severe itching may be present, which affects daily well-being.

Moccasin mycosis: foot fungus infection of the sole and edges of the foot

Vesicular-dyshidrotic: The dangerous little bubbles

Vesicular dyshidrotic mycosis is a form of athlete's foot characterized by small, fluid-filled blisters that can appear primarily on the soles of the feet or on the sides of the fingers.

This type of infection can be particularly painful and requires immediate treatment.

Small blisters: Small, clear blisters filled with fluid form on the skin and often appear in groups.
Itching and burning: The affected areas may itch severely and cause burning, especially when the blisters burst.
Redness and inflammation: Redness and inflammation may occur around the blisters, increasing the risk of bacterial infection.
Pain when walking: Due to the placement of the blisters on the soles of the feet, sufferers may experience pain when walking or standing.
Peeling skin: After the blisters burst, the skin may begin to peel off, causing further discomfort.

What is nail fungus?

Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis , is a common fungal infection that affects the nails on the hands and feet . The infection often starts at the edge of the nail and slowly spreads to the nail bed.

Typical symptoms are

Discoloration,
Thickenings
and brittleness of the nails l .

These nail changes can make the nail look unsightly and even painful. Nail fungus is caused by various types of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts and molds, and can be transmitted through direct contact or through contaminated surfaces .

To learn more about effective treatment options, read our guide on treating nail fungus .

Athlete’s foot and nail fungus: differences & similarities

Athlete's foot and nail fungus are both common fungal infections that are caused by similar circumstances but differ in their specific characteristics and treatment approaches.

➽ Scientific name:

Athlete’s foot: Tinea pedis
Nail fungus: onychomycosis

➽ Trigger:

Athlete's foot: Is usually caused by the filamentous fungus Trichophyton, less frequently by other filamentous, yeast, sprout or mold fungi.
Nail fungus: Often caused by filamentous fungi (dermatophytes), occasionally also by yeast or mold.

➽ Causes:

Both conditions are favored by similar factors, such as:

Generally weaker immune system.
Older people are more often affected.
Walking barefoot in public, warm and humid places such as saunas or swimming pools.

Specific causes of athlete's foot also include skin injuries caused by ill-fitting shoes or incorrect foot care .

Specific causes of nail fungus are often shoes that are too tight or damp on the inside, which remains damp, for example, due to heavy sweating.

➽ Symptoms:

Athlete’s foot:

Often starts between the toes with itching, redness and scaling.
May develop blisters and small pustules.
In the advanced stage, cracks and skin injuries occur.

Nail fungus:

The nails become brittle and show streaks, spots or discoloration.
This leads to a thickening of the nail plate and possibly inflammation of the nail bed .

Both types of fungus require specific treatments that are tailored to the type of fungus and the stage of infection. Athlete's foot can often be treated locally, while nail fungus may require more intensive and often systemic treatment.

How contagious are nail fungus and athlete's foot really?

Nail fungus and athlete's foot are highly contagious and can easily be transmitted from one person to another , especially in warm, humid environments such as swimming pools, saunas and changing rooms.

Transmission occurs through direct skin contact or through contact with contaminated surfaces such as towels, shoes or floors.

Why risk groups should be particularly careful

People with a weakened immune system, diabetes or circulatory problems have an increased risk of developing athlete's foot or nail fungus.

Elderly people and people who often spend time in humid and warm environments such as swimming pools or saunas should also be particularly careful.

It is important that at-risk groups take preventive measures to avoid fungal infections and seek immediate medical attention if signs of athlete's foot or nail fungus appear.

Foot and nail fungus: The risk of a chronic disease

Athlete's foot and nail fungus can become chronic conditions if not treated properly. Chronic fungal infections can recur and be more difficult to treat.

They can also lead to complications such as secondary bacterial infections. Therefore, it is important to detect fungal infections early and treat them consistently to reduce the risk of chronic disease.

Treating athlete’s foot: These are the options

Treatment for athlete's foot can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of the infection and individual needs.

Topical treatments such as creams, ointments or tinctures are the most common first steps to combat symptoms. These products contain active ingredients specifically aimed at eliminating fungal spores and preventing the spread of the infection.

For more stubborn cases or when the nails are also affected, oral medications may be prescribed to fight the fungus from the inside. It is important that any treatment is applied consistently and continued even after symptoms have subsided to avoid relapses.

Pamper your feet: Discover our foot bath salts from Health Routine

Our feet carry us through life and therefore deserve the best care, especially when they are affected by foot and nail fungus. The foot bath salt from Health Routine not only offers cosmetic support for the care of foot and nail fungus, but also ensures a refreshing and soothing skin feeling.

The ingredients of the salt , such as

Sea salt,
Baking soda
and essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus and peppermint oil,

use their cleansing and antimicrobial properties to soothe the skin and balance the skin environment.

The application is simple:

Dissolve 2-3 tablespoons of salt in warm water
and let your feet soak in it for at least 10 minutes.

This relaxing ritual helps to promote well-being and supports the health of the feet in the long term.

Treating athlete's foot and how you can support healing

The effective treatment of athlete's foot combines drug therapies with supportive care measures to accelerate the healing process.

Thorough foot hygiene is essential; daily foot baths with antifungal additives and regular examination of the feet help to monitor and adjust the healing process.

Avoid skin irritation caused by aggressive care products and choose gentle, skin-friendly alternatives instead.

Stress reduction through yoga or meditation also strengthens the immune system and promotes healing. A nutrient-dense diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as zinc and vitamin C also supports the health of the skin and nails.

Please also take a look at this article: 10 vitamins for healthy nails » What you should know!

Athlete’s foot: Why treatment takes more time

Treating athlete's foot can take more time than treating nail fungus. This is because the fungi can penetrate deep into the skin and are harder to reach.

Treatment may take several weeks to months , depending on the severity of the infection and the type of fungus causing the infection. It is important to continue treatment consistently until the infection is completely cured.

Are you interested in more tips for healthy and beautiful nails? Read our guide on the topic Healthy Nails to learn more about proper care and nutrition for strong nails.

What treatments are effective for both types of fungal infections?

There are various ways to treat athlete's foot and nail fungus, including creams, ointments and tablets. Nail Care Pen from Health Routine can be used as a supportive cosmetic treatment for nail fungus. It contains natural ingredients in a carefully balanced formula and combines

Tea tree oil,
Aloe Vera,
Lemon juice
as well as vitamin E and vitamin C.

This active ingredient complex can help to nourish and moisturize the nails. If you want to treat both athlete's foot and nail fungus at the same time, the Health Routine products for cosmetic nail care can be a helpful addition:

✔ Health Routine Nail Care Pen : Care for and protect your nails daily with the Health Routine Nail Care Pen, your cosmetic companion for nail fungus infections.

✔ Health Routine Foot Bath Salt : Offers protection, care and freshness for your feet and works against bacteria and fungi through the power of essential oils and sea salt. Also prevents calluses and cracked feet .

✔ Health Routine Feet Care Spray : Contains natural ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil and lavender oil to provide optimal care and hygiene for your feet and effectively combat sweat odor.

Preventing nail fungus and athlete's foot: These are the most helpful tips

Keep feet dry: Keep your feet as dry as possible. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, after showering or if they get wet.
Use antimicrobial foot powder: Foot powder can help keep feet dry and reduce the risk of fungal infection. Sprinkle the powder into socks and shoes, especially before exercise.
Wear breathable shoes and socks: Choose shoes and socks made of breathable materials such as cotton or special moisture-wicking fabrics. These materials effectively wick away moisture and help prevent the growth of fungi.
Change shoes and socks regularly: Avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row. Give the shoes time to air, which reduces the risk of fungal growth.
Protect your feet in public areas: Always wear shoes in public changing rooms, showers and swimming pools to avoid direct contact with fungal spores.
Regular foot hygiene: Clean your feet regularly and make sure you keep them clean at all times. Good foot hygiene is crucial to prevent fungal infections.

These simple but effective tips can help prevent both nail fungus and athlete's foot and thus ensure the long-term health of your feet.

If you want, you can download the nail fungus e-book now. Here we have compiled everything that is important in detail.

Conclusion

Treating and preventing foot and nail fungus is crucial to maintaining foot health. A combination of

proper hygiene,
suitable care products
and careful self-observation forms the basis for effective results.

It is important to act quickly at the first signs of infection to prevent the spread and avoid long-term complications.

In addition to medical treatment and good foot hygiene, special foot baths, such as our foot bath salts from Health Routine , can also be used to promote the well-being of the feet.

FAQ

What can you do against athlete’s foot with home remedies?

Home remedies can be used as a supportive measure in the treatment of athlete's foot. A popular home remedy is a foot bath with apple cider vinegar, which can have antifungal properties due to its natural acidity.

Rubbing the affected areas with tea tree oil is also often recommended, as it is known for its antimicrobial effects. However, home remedies alone are usually not enough to completely cure athlete's foot, which is why a visit to the doctor and additional treatment with medically approved antifungals is advisable.

How long does it take to treat athlete's foot?

The length of treatment for athlete's foot can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment method used. Typically, treatment with topical antifungals, such as creams or sprays, lasts about 4 to 6 weeks.

In more severe cases, where oral medication may be required, treatment may take longer. It is crucial to follow the doctor or pharmacist's instructions and not to stop treatment prematurely, even if symptoms subside.

How long does the treatment for nail fungus take?

Treatment for nail fungus is usually more lengthy than for athlete's foot. Topical treatments can take several months, while oral therapy typically takes between 6 and 12 weeks.

Because nail fungus can penetrate deep into the nail, patience is required and full healing often occurs only when a healthy nail grows back. Regular monitoring by a specialist is recommended to assess the progress of treatment.

🌿 Discover more guides from Health Routine now:

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