Athlete's Foot Treatment in West Chester, PA

AFC Urgent Care West Chester can provide quick and easy on-site athlete's foot treatment. Athlete's foot (or medically known as tinea pedis) is a relatively common fungal disease that affects the bottom of the foot and between the toes. It is commonly seen in active adults and adolescents. It is more common in athletes because it is caused by a fungus that thrives in damp areas such as locker rooms and showers. However, the truth is that anyone can be affected by athlete's foot. If you notice a burning or itchy rash on your feet or a foul odor, it may be time to have it examined and diagnosed by a provider. Athlete's foot is generally not a severe medical issue, but it can be a stubborn thing to cure, so catching and treating it early is essential.

What causes athlete's foot, and who's at risk?

This foot fungus thrives in dark, moist, warm environments. It is perfectly normal for fungi to live on someone's skin; however, when an environment becomes too warm and damp such as in athletic shoe gear, the fungi can grow out of control. This is often what causes an athlete's foot infection.

Someone can also pick up athlete's foot fungus by touching a surface touched by someone who is infected. The most common surfaces where this could happen are locker rooms, swimming pools, or public showers. If someone frequents these areas, there is an increased chance of getting athlete's foot. The term "athlete's foot" comes from the fact that many athletes become infected by spending time in locker rooms and wearing warm, sweaty socks and shoes. However, someone does not need to be in an active sport to pick up this fungal infection.

What are the symptoms of an athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot is notoriously difficult to cure or completely get rid of. It can be critical to catch it early to avoid the long-term annoyance of treating it. There are several symptoms that could appear to indicate the start of a possible fungal infection:

• Discolored, crumbly, and thick toenails.
• Dry skin on the soles or side of the feet
• Itchy blisters on the feet
• Cracking or peeling of skin on feet, usually between toes
• Itching, burning, and stinging on the foot soles or between toes.

What are the treatment options for Athlete's Foot?

If you or a family member suspect they may have athlete's foot, come to AFC Urgent Care West Chester for a diagnosis and treatment. We are open seven days a week with no appointment needed. Our providers will be able to evaluate your symptoms and provide the best course of action to treat a possible athlete's foot infection.

Generally, our providers will prescribe topical or oral antifungal medication. This medication must be taken or applied for as long as our provider instructs, even if symptoms begin to go away or vanish altogether. Stopping a treatment early could cause the athlete's foot to return.

Our providers will also suggest:

• Keeping feet dry, especially between the toes
• Changing socks throughout the day to ensure the area remains dry
• Avoid scratching any blisters or rash, as this may cause it to spread
• Wash and clean feet regularly.

The expert staff and providers at AFC Urgent Care West Chester are ready to help you with your athlete's foot. Come to our urgent care center today and be seen with no appointment needed. We look forward to meeting you and helping you feel better!

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