Sometimes, an athlete’s feet can spread to the hands through fungal infections. The Tinea manuum is also known as the athlete’s foot. It can happen if you touch infected skin with your feet, and don’t wash your hands afterwards. Transmission from the feet to hands is very rare, but it can cause a red, itchy, and dry area in the palm of one arm. This could be mistakenly thought to be eczema, or the discomfort associated with psoriasis. A dermatologist or doctor should diagnose it. The infection could spread by touching infected areas on your feet or other parts of your body. It is important to quickly treat athlete’s foot infections and wash your hands after touching the affected area.
How does the condition spread?
The athlete’s foot can be picked up by going barefoot in damp areas like floors around showers, gyms, and swimming pools. If you’re in public, wear flip-flops, swim shoes, or shower shoes to prevent spreading the disease. The condition can be easily caught if you have sweaty feet and wear socks or tight-fitting shoes. You will notice itching and burning sensations.
What is an athlete’s foot?
It is one of several fungal skin infections that are part of the tinea family. These infections can be caused by several mold-like fungi known as dermatophytes, and pronounced der-MAH’tuh-fites. They live on your skin, hair, and nails. Tinea pedis is the medical name for an athlete’s foot. It usually affects the soles and the area between the toes. It can even spread to your toenails. As we mentioned earlier, an athlete’s feet can spread to your palms, groin, or underarms, if you touch your feet with your other hand. It does not affect only athletes. Tinea is a medical term for a variety of fungal skin infections. These infections can affect the skin, nails and scalp. Ringworm is not actually a worm. Men are particularly susceptible to athlete’s foot.
How to quickly and effectively treat athlete’s foot (or hands)
- Wash your towels and socks in hot water to eliminate any fungus.
- You should wash your feet frequently, especially after playing sports. Dry them well.
- Keep your feet as dry and clean as possible. Switch to socks made from special moisture-wicking fabrics (available at sports shops) to keep your feet dry.
- Do not wear the same shoes every day. Instead, let them air out in direct sunlight. Never put on damp shoes.
- Flip flops, sandals and well-ventilated trainers will allow your feet to breathe.
It is important to start treatment immediately. This makes it easier to manage the condition. Recurrences of athlete’s feet are common so continue to use any treatment even if it seems to have disappeared. Many athlete’s foot treatments are made with harsh chemicals that should be avoided.
