Your podiatrist in Austin wants you to know how serious foot fungus can be. Rather than ignore this potentially serious condition, it’s important to recognize the warnings about foot fungus so you can get appropriate treatment when necessary.

What is Foot Fungus?

Foot fungus includes any fungus that presents on any part of the foot or toenails. The most widely known type of foot fungus is Athlete’s Foot, but there are many types of foot fungus to be aware of. If you have the signs of foot fungus, you should contact your Austin podiatrist for a professional diagnosis and treatment. Foot fungus is a fungal infection caused by microscopic fungi. In the case of toenail fungus, the fungi are called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes are so small that they can enter the skin through open areas such as blisters, skin cracks, cuts and small scrapes. A small, painless foot wound that you might not even notice provides plenty of opportunity for dermatophytes to get under the skin. In the case of Athlete’s Foot, this condition is another type of fungal condition called tinea pedis. While some kinds of foot fungus may seem relatively harmless, foot fungus can lead to terrible consequences if left untreated.

Serious Warnings About Foot Fungus

First of all, the symptoms of Athlete’s Foot and toenail fungus should not be ignored. The problem lies in self-diagnosing at home. Often, what you think can be treated with some home remedy actually needs professional treatment. Fungus is a very resilient growth. You may think you’ve gotten rid of it, but it can return even worse than it was before. When you consider that the symptoms of a foot fungus can lead to infection or even worse, you realize that you should always get any kind of foot fungus treated by a podiatrist.

Symptoms of Foot Fungus

Symptoms of foot fungus include:

• Dry, itchy skin
• Flaking skin
• Redness
• Swelling
• Cracks in the skin
• Blackening of the skin or toenails
• Crumbling toenails
• Foul odor
• Pain or discomfort
• Nail separating from nail bed
• Thickening or curling of the nail
• Itching that cannot be satisfied

Remember that fungus is a growth that can survive in dark, moist conditions; just like when you wear socks and shoes. If you want to get rid of your foot fungus for good, contact your Austin podiatrist to book your appointment.