Your Nose Was Designed to Smell, But What If Your Feet Smell Instead?

While your nose was designed to smell, sometimes it's your feet that unexpectedly give off an unpleasant odor, even with good hygiene practices. When this happens, it could be a sign of a common foot condition called athlete's foot or tinea pedis.

Athlete's Foot: A Prevalent Problem

Athlete's foot, caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum, may affect up to 70% of the world's population at some point. That means nearly 5 billion people have experienced this stubborn and contagious foot infection! The fungus is believed to have been brought back by soldiers returning from World War I and has been a common issue ever since.

While it's called "athlete's foot," this fungal infection isn't limited to athletes. However, those who frequent gyms, workout facilities, pools, and communal showers in Peoria, AZ are at an increased risk of contracting it. The fungus thrives in moist environments like locker rooms.

Symptoms of Athlete's Foot 

Once the Trichophyton rubrum fungus gets under your skin using enzymes called keratinases, it can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including:

• Itching, stinging, and burning between the toes
• Cracked, blistered, or peeling skin
• Dry, scaly skin on the soles
• Thick, discolored toenails

Treatment for Athlete's Foot

If you're experiencing symptoms of athlete's foot, consider making an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya  at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, AZ.  We can provide professional treatment. Don't let this fungal infection persist - contact us today to get relief from smelly, uncomfortable feet.