The fungus that causes Athlete foot is named Trichophyton and is a skin infection.

Athlete foot is caused by the ringworm fungus ("tinea" in medical jargon). Athlete foot is also named tinea pedis. The fungus that causes Athlete foot can be found on floors and in socks and clothing.

The symptoms of Athlete foot include itching and burning feet. The skin frequently peels and, in particularly hard cases, there may be some cracking, discomfort and bleeding as well. When the feet, or other areas of the body, remain moist, warm and irritated, this fungus can flourish and infect the upper layer of the skin.

When the skin is injured by the fungus, bacteria can also invade the skin. Those bacteria can cause a bad odour. Bacterial infection of the skin and resulting inflammation is also known as cellulitis. This is especially expected to take place in the elderly, individuals with diabetes, chronic leg swelling, or who have had veins removed, and patients with week immune systems.

The treatment of Athlete foot can be split up into two parts. The first, and the most important part, is to make the infected area less suitable for the Athlete foot fungus to grow. This means keeping the area clean and dry. The second part of treatment is the use of antifungal creams. Numerous medications are available including miconazole, clotrimazole, etc. Ask your health care professional or pharmacist for a counsel. Treatment should be continued for 4 weeks.

If you notice any redness, increased swelling, bleeding, or if your infection is not clearing up, see your healthcare practitioner. If a bacterial infection is also occurring, an antibiotic may be required.

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