skin disorders
Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Treatment of Athlete's Foot
Antifungal medications applied to the skin or occasionally taken by mouth Measures to keep the feet dry The safest treatment of tinea pedis is using antifungal medications that are applied directly to the affected area (topical). However, tinea pedis commonly recurs, and people often have to use antifungal medications for a long time. Antifungal medications taken by mouth (oral), such asitraconazoleandterbinafine, are effective but may have side effects. In some situations, topical and oral antifungal medications are used at the same time. Reducing moisture on the feet and in footwear helps prevent recurrences. Wearing open-toe shoes or shoes that “breathe” and frequently changing socks are important, especially during warm weather. Spaces between toes should be thoroughly towel-dried after bathing. To help keep the feet dry, people may apply antifungal powders (such asmiconazole),gentian violet, oraluminum chloridesolution or soak their feet in Burow solution (aluminum subacetate). (See also table.) 