What is athletes foot, what causes it and what are the symptoms?
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin. Being warm and moist, the spaces between the toes are ideal environments for the fungi to grow, a condition that is very common amongst those who play sport. In 90% of cases, fungi called dermatophytes are the causative organisms. The remainder are caused by yeasts. Athlete’s foot is a highly contagious disease. Fungal spores that reside on skin scales are easily caught in communal sports changing rooms and showers, by sharing shoes, clothes, towels or by picking them up directly from the ground. Initially there is very little to see, but as the infection progresses the skin can become sore and/or itchy and inflamed. The infected skin then invariably becomes moist, blistering in some cases, cracking and peeling in others. Areas of dead white skin are a particular diagnostic sign. Read the package insert and directions for use before using Canesten. For further information on benefits, risks and side effects please consult your physician
