Athlete's Foot: Treatment Options and Recommendations

Q: Athlete's Foot: Treatment Options and Recommendations

Hello, Student Chang： 1. Regarding thick skin tinea pedis, the usual duration for medication is two weeks. You can also apply salicylic acid ointment topically to accelerate the shedding of thickened skin. 2. Currently, drug resistance is not high; oral m

Regarding issues related to athlete's foot, I would like to ask the doctor..?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask some questions regarding athlete's foot:
1.
I have been diagnosed with athlete's foot at a dermatology clinic, specifically the hyperkeratotic type.
If I were to take medication, how long should I expect to be on it?
2.
Regarding the first question, as a pharmacy student, I have some knowledge about medications.
Previously, I used terbinafine but may not have completed the treatment, which could have led to resistance, resulting in the current ineffectiveness of terbinafine.
If that is the case, would oral terbinafine also be ineffective due to resistance? Are there any other antifungal medications that might work well?
3.
Since I live in Pingtung, could you recommend a good dermatologist at Kaohsiung Medical University? Additionally, what type of material is better for flip-flops? Should I opt for plastic beach sandals or leather flip-flops? I've heard that wearing plastic flip-flops could worsen the condition; is that true?
Thank you, Dr.
Zhang, for taking the time to answer my questions!

Zhang Tongxue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/28

Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology

Hello, Student Chang:
1.
Regarding thick skin tinea pedis, the usual duration for medication is two weeks.
You can also apply salicylic acid ointment topically to accelerate the shedding of thickened skin.

2.
Currently, drug resistance is not high; oral medications tend to have a more prolonged effect compared to topical treatments.
If there is no improvement after two weeks of treatment, you can switch to another class of antifungal medications (Allylamines vs.
Imidazoles and Triazoles vs.
Polyenes), all of which should be effective.
The antifungal species that are currently being discussed for resistance are Candida spp.
New-generation treatments such as Liposomal Amphotericin B and Echinocandins can be used for treatment.
3.
Every dermatologist at Kaohsiung Medical University is excellent.
If you want to attend classes, the evening clinic may be more convenient.
As for what material is best for slippers, generally, any material that does not cause an allergy is acceptable.
The reason for the worsening of athlete's foot is due to the humid and warm environment; wearing plastic slippers may exacerbate the condition for this reason.

Reply Date: 2008/07/28

More Info

Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It is characterized by symptoms such as itching, burning, and peeling skin, particularly between the toes and on the soles of the feet. Understanding the treatment options and recommendations for managing athlete's foot is crucial for effective recovery and prevention of recurrence.

1. Duration of Treatment: The duration of treatment for athlete's foot can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment method used. Topical antifungal medications, such as clotrimazole or terbinafine, are typically applied for 2 to 4 weeks. If the infection is severe or does not respond to topical treatments, oral antifungal medications like terbinafine or itraconazole may be prescribed, usually for a duration of 4 to 6 weeks. It is essential to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished to prevent recurrence.

2. Antifungal Resistance: Regarding your concern about developing resistance to antifungal medications, it is indeed possible for fungi to become resistant if medications are not used as directed. If you suspect that you have developed resistance to topical treatments like "療黴舒" (likely referring to a topical antifungal), it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend switching to a different class of antifungal medication or increasing the duration of treatment with a different agent. Oral antifungals like terbinafine are generally effective, but if resistance is a concern, alternatives such as fluconazole or griseofulvin may be considered.

3. Footwear Recommendations: When it comes to footwear, it is important to choose materials that allow for breathability and moisture control. Plastic or rubber flip-flops can trap moisture and create an environment conducive to fungal growth, especially if worn for extended periods. Instead, consider wearing sandals made from breathable materials like leather or those designed specifically for foot health. If you are in a public setting, wearing breathable footwear can help reduce the risk of reinfection or spreading the fungus.

4. Consultation with a Dermatologist: If you are looking for a reputable dermatologist in Pingtung, I recommend checking with local hospitals or clinics that have a dermatology department. You can also seek recommendations from friends or family members who have had positive experiences with dermatologists in your area. It is important to find a dermatologist who is experienced in treating fungal infections and can provide personalized care.

5. Preventive Measures: To prevent athlete's foot, consider the following recommendations:
- Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes.

- Change socks regularly, particularly after sweating.

- Use antifungal powder or spray on your feet and inside shoes to reduce moisture.

- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers.

- Ensure that your footwear is well-ventilated and fits properly to avoid excessive sweating.

In summary, athlete's foot is a treatable condition, but it requires adherence to treatment protocols and preventive measures to avoid recurrence. If you have concerns about treatment efficacy or resistance, consulting with a healthcare professional is the best course of action.

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