Fungus Among Us

If you enjoy watching Seinfeld reruns, you probably remember the episode where Jerry describes podiatrists as being "knee-deep in fungus." While this is probably exaggerated, fungal infections are still a very common occurrence in the feet, as well as other body parts.

The fungi (plural of fungus) that infect humans are microscopic organisms that are similar to plants. They are distinct from bacteria, however, so antibiotics will not be effective. (In fact, the original antibiotic, penicillin, was extracted from a fungus.)

Fungal infections arise from handling other animals, contact with dirt, or most commonly, are transmitted from other people. Among these human-to-human fungal infections, the most common is tinea pedis, the cause of Athlete's Foot.

Athlete's Foot is commonly transmitted in locker room showers and other common areas where people will walk around barefoot. You can also contract Athlete's Foot by sharing the footwear of an infected person. If you have an infection, you will have itching and burning that usually starts between the toes. It can lead to blistering and cracks in the skin. Also, the infection might spread to the nails, resulting in color changes and a bad odor. If left untreated, the infection spreads across the sole of the foot, resembling a moccasin in appearance.

You can prevent Athlete's Foot by doing the following:

• Keep your feet dry. Fungi spread easily in wet areas.
  
• Wear sandals when walking in moist areas like locker room showers.
  
• Always wear dry socks
  

Fungal infections generally do not go away on their own, so you will need to seek treatment. Fortunately, there are many over the counter topical treatments available. For additional advice, consult with Dr. Reddy or a podiatrist in your area. Lastly, avoid touching the infected area and then touching other body parts, because the infection will spread to the hands, scalp, and armpits if contacted.