What Is Podiatry?
Committed to the health of your
feet, podiatric medicine focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle problems, such as fungal
problems. Your podiatrist (doctor of podiatric medicine) is highly trained through years of study and clinical
practice, including a bachelor's degree program and four years of podiatric medical school. Podiatrists may also have
from one to three years of residency training, studying other aspects of foot care and surgery. Podiatrists continue
to stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field.
In treating your feet, your podiatrist may also work with your other health care providers to give you appropriate
and comprehensive care.
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What Are The Most Common Fungal Problmes?
The fungal problems seen most often are athlete's foot and fungal nails. A fungus is a common mold that thrives in
dark, warm, most areas. On the feet, it can grow on and between toes, as well as on soles and toenails. Fungal
problems can be a result of environment (socks, shoes, heat, and humidity) or weakened immunity (diseases such as
diabetes). Chronic fungal infections are most common in adults, while acute fungal infections are seen more often
in children.
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Athlete's Foot
A chronic infection caused by various types of fungus, athlete's foot is often spread in places where people go
barefoot, such as public showers or swimming pools. The condition ranges from mild scaling and itching to painful
inflammation and blisters. It usually starts between the toes or on the arch and may spread to the bottom and sides
of the foot.
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Fungal Nails
When a fungal infection progresses, it may infect one or more nails, turning them yellow, green, black, or
other colors. Fungal nail infections can cause nail thickening, inflammation,, or sensitivity.
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Evaluation
Since fungal problems may be related to other
medical problems, your podiatrist needs to look at your medical history, examine your foot and skin, and possibly to
other tests. |
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Medical History
Your podiatrist asks you about any
problems you've had in the past, and medications you're taking, the type of work and activities you do, and the style
of shoes you usually wear. |
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Exam
During your foot examination, your podiatrist
checks for breaks in the skin, growths, and odor (which can be a sign of bacteria). Your skin is examined for
flaking or scaling, and your nails are checked for color, thickness, and inflammation. |
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Tests
Your podiatrist may take a culture (sample) from
the infected area. The culture may be examined under a microscope or observed in a medium. These tests can help to
determine the cause of your problem or identify the type of fungus. |
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How Are Fungal Problems Treated?
Depending on the type of infection you have, various kinds of medication may be used in treating your fungal problem.
Successful treatment usually involves a combination of medication and self-care. |
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Athlete's Foot
If your condition is not serious,
over-the-counter and prescription powders, lotions, or ointments can often help treat scaling, itching, and
inflammation. Foot soaks may help dry excessive perspiration, but talk with your podiatrist first. If your
athlete's foot doesn't improve, your podiatrist may prescribe stronger medication.
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Fungal Nails
Since fungal nails are usually more
resistant and more difficult to treat than athlete's foot, topical or oral antifungal medications may be prescribed.
Permanent nail removal is another possible form of treatment for fungal nails.
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What Can I Do About Fungal Problems?
Your daily habits play a big part in helping to prevent fungal problems. Follow the suggestions below, and see
your podiatrist if you have more problems. |
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Dry Carefully
Always dry your feet thoroughly after
you bathe or shower. Be sure to dry between your toes. Foot powders can also help absorb moisture.
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Alternate Shoes
To help avoid fungas-causing
perspiration, alternate the shoes you wear so they have at least a day to dry out. Also, try to wear shoes
made of breathable materials like leather or canvas.
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Change Socks
Wear natural-fiber socks and change
them often, especially if you play sports.
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Beware of Bare Feet
Wear sandals or thongs in
public areas such as pools, showers, or locker rooms.
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