There are many different types of fungal infections out there, but two are pretty common: athlete’s foot fungus and fungal nail fungus. An athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that forms an itchy, stinging, and burning rash on the skin, while nail fungus is a fungal infection of the toenail.
They may seem different, but they’re pretty similar and can be treated the same way. Let’s look at both athlete’s foot and nail fungus, overlapping characteristics, and treatment approaches.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot, otherwise known as “Tinea pedis” is a form of ringworm that is most common between your toes but can also affect the tops of feet, soles, and heels.
While an athlete’s foot can affect anyone, it is more common in men and people above the age of 60 years. Diabetes, obesity, a weakened immune system, and tissue damage can significantly contribute to the formation of an athlete’s foot.
Nail Fungus
Toenail fungus, otherwise known as “Tinea unguium” is a widespread fungal infection that happens when fungi get between your toenail bed (the tissues underneath your toenail) and toenail through a cut or crack in the nail.
Toenail fungus can affect people of all ages; however, it is more common in older adults, especially people over the age of 60 years. People who have the following conditions are more likely to get toenail fungus.
- Athletes foot
- Diabetes
- An injury to the nail
- Psoriasis
- Poor blood circulation due to peripheral vascular disease
- A weakened immune system
Overlapping Characteristics of Athlete’s Foot and Toenail Fungus
One of the main reasons why athlete’s foot and nail fungus are overlapping conditions is because they are caused by the same type of fungi. Dermatophytes, which are tiny fungi, are responsible for both infections. However, yeast, bacteria, and molds also can cause nail infections.
Moreover, athlete’s foot and nail fungi share some risk factors. For instance, exposure to moist and warm environments such as public swimming pools, communal showers, and saunas can increase the risk of both infections. Also, people with diabetes and weak immune systems are more likely to develop both conditions.
It’s also important to mention here that both conditions can occur at the same time. This is because the fungi that cause these infections can easily spread from one part of the foot to another. For example, if you have an athlete’s foot between your toes, the fungus can spread to your toenails and cause nail fungus.
Treatment of Athlete’s Foot and Nail Fungus
There are a variety of treatments available for athletes’ foot and nail fungus. The best treatment for you will depend on the severity of your infection and your overall health.
Treatment for Athlete’s Foot
Over-the-counter antifungal medications are highly effective for athlete’s foot treatment. These OTC medications come in the form of creams, ointments, sprays, and powder. For a severe fungal infection, your foot and ankle doctor may recommend some prescription medications that come in pill form.
You can also try lifestyle and home remedies, such as keeping your feet dry and clean, changing socks regularly, and protecting your feet in public, to ease the symptoms of athlete’s foot and avoid its recurrence.
Treatment for Nail Fungus
Nail fungus does not always require treatment. Most cases of toenail fungus get better with self-care and over-the-counter antifungal products.
However, if the condition does not improve, a foot and ankle care provider can prescribe antifungal medications that you can take orally or apply to the nails. In severe cases, a foot and ankle doctor may suggest temporary removal of the nail so that medications can be applied directly to the nail bed for permanent relief from infection.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment in RI and MA
Athlete’s foot and nail fungi are overlapping conditions caused by the same type of fungi. Both conditions share similar symptoms and risk factors and can be treated using similar approaches.
Whether you have Athlete’s foot or nail fungus, visit us here at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England for comprehensive evaluation and treatment. Our board-certified foot and ankle doctors specialize in pediatric foot care, diabetic foot care, sports injury treatment, and ankle replacement surgery. We also offer comprehensive treatment for fungal infections of the foot.
To schedule a consultation with our foot and ankle experts, call the podiatry office nearest to you or use our convenient online appointment request form .
