Athlete's foot

It's not only athletes who get this fungal infection, which grows in warm, moist areas of the body. Between sweaty toes is an ideal home for the fungus, which is usually picked up from swimming pools and communal changing rooms.

It makes the skin itchy, red and sore and, if not treated, the skin soon becomes soggy and starts to crack and peel. The fungus can also spread to the toenails.

It's best treated using an anti-fungal spray if the area affected is moist, or an anti-fungal cream, if the area is dry. These are available from your pharmacist without prescription. In mild cases powder can be used.

To prevent it returning pay attention to drying between the toes after bathing. Regularly dabbing between them with surgical spirit on cotton wool is a good idea for very sweaty feet. Make sure you allow your shoes or trainers to dry out for at least 24 hours to after you've worn them; this means not wearing the same ones every day. Never use creams between your toes as this will make them more moist.

A visit to a qualified chiropodist is an excellent solution.

[ Corns & Calluses ]

[ Athlete's foot ]

[ Verrucas ]

[ Ingrowing Toenails ]

[ Young Feet ]

[ Shoes ]