Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Description
- A red, scaly, cracked rash occurs between the toes.
- The rash itches and burns.
- With scratching the rash becomes raw and weepy.
- The rash often spreads to the instep.
- The foot has an unpleasant odor.
- It mainly occurs in adolescents.
Similar Condition
Cracked Skin
Cause
Athlete's foot is caused by a fungus that grows best on warm,
damp skin.
Expected Course
With proper treatment, athlete's foot usually clears in 2 to
3 weeks.
Home Care
- Antifungal cream
Buy Lotrimin, Tinactin or Micatin cream at your
drugstore. You won't need a prescription.
First, rinse the feet in plain water or water with a
little white vinegar added. Dry the feet carefully,
especially between the toes. Then apply the cream to the
rash and well beyond its borders twice a day. Continue
applying the antifungal cream for several weeks, or for
at least 7 days after the rash seems to have cleared.
Successful treatment often takes 3 or 4 weeks.
- Dryness
Athlete's foot improves dramatically if the feet are kept
dry. It helps to go barefoot or wear sandals or thongs
as much as possible. Wear shoes that allow the feet to
breathe. Wear cotton socks because the cotton absorbs
sweat and keeps the feet dry. Change socks twice a day.
Dry the feet thoroughly after baths and showers.
- Foot odor
The feet often stop smelling bad when the athlete's foot
improves. Rinsing the feet and changing socks twice a
day are essential. If that doesn't work, rinse the
feet in a basin of warm water containing 1 ounce of
vinegar. If you can still smell your child coming, wash
his tennis shoes in your washing machine with some soap
and bleach.
- Discourage scratching
Scratching infected feet will delay a cure.
- Contagiousness
Athlete's foot is not easily passed from person to
person but is thought to be spread by direct contact
with contaminated surfaces such as locker room or
bathroom floors. The fungus won't grow on dry, normal
skin.
Call Your Child's Physician During Office Hours If:
- It looks infected.
- The athlete's foot is not improved in 1 week.
- It is not completely cured after using this treatment for
4 weeks.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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