How to Treat Foot Fungus

Fungus can lead to infections on the skin and toenails. The fungal infection on the skin is also referred to as athlete's foot, causing itching, burning, and peeling of the skin. If not treated, athlete's foot can spread to the toes. Both types of foot fungal infections are highly contagious, spreading both on the infected person’s body and to others through direct contact. Therefore, treating the infection and preventing its recurrence is essential.

Avoid further spreading the infection. This infection affects the skin of the toes and soles of the feet. Since the feet frequently come into contact with shared surfaces such as floors (gym or public places), foot fungus can spread rapidly.

• Avoid sharing shoes and towels with others.
• Do not walk barefoot in locker rooms, public pools, showers, or gyms.
• Wear flip-flops or bathroom slippers while bathing until the infection is cured.
• Keep socks and bed linens separate to prevent contamination of clothing and other belongings.
• Regularly clean bathroom surfaces at home.
• Change socks daily or more often if needed (e.g., after exercising).

Use over-the-counter medications. Mild fungal infections can often be treated with non-prescription medications. However, more severe cases may require prescription medication.

• Apply antifungal ointments, sprays, powders, or creams.
• Over-the-counter options include Butenafine (Lotrimin Ultra), Clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF), Miconazole (Desenex, Zeasor and others), Terbinafine (Lamisil AT), and Tolnaftate (Tinactin, Ting and others).
• For more severe fungal infections, prescription treatments may be necessary. Topical medications include Clotrimazole and Miconazole; oral medications include Itraconazole (Sporanox), Fluconazole (Diflucan), and Terbinafine (Lamisil). Note that oral medications may interact with other medications, such as antacids and certain blood thinners.

Try homeopathic treatments. Some alternative methods can be highly effective in treating athlete’s foot and toenail infections.

• Apply a thin layer of tea tree oil to the affected skin 2-3 times a day. Use 100% pure tea tree oil for best results.
• Apply grapefruit seed extract, which has antifungal properties, to the infected area. These products can be found at health food stores or natural bath supply shops.
• Expose the infected feet to sunlight and fresh air. Wear breathable shoes like sandals and keep feet dry and clean.
• Treat with garlic – a natural ingredient with powerful antifungal compounds effective against infections like athlete’s foot. Crush garlic and soak feet in it for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, mix crushed garlic with olive oil and apply with a cotton ball to the affected skin.

Avoid further spread. Toenail fungus can occur from an infection of athlete's foot or be contracted from public places. Fungus thrives in warm, damp environments and can enter through cuts or gaps between the toes and skin.

• Avoid sharing shoes, socks, or towels with others.
• Do not walk barefoot in locker rooms, public pools, showers, or gyms.
• Discard old shoes that may be contaminated with fungus.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap after touching infected toenails to prevent spreading the fungus to other toes.
• Keep infected toenails dry by wearing open-toed shoes or clean, dry socks.

Use over-the-counter medications. Toenail fungus can begin as a mild infection but may develop into a more troublesome condition. It can cause the toenail to change color, crack at the edges, or thicken unusually. Treatment is necessary if the infection causes discomfort.

• Apply prescription antifungal creams to the toenail after soaking the foot in warm water.
• Consult a doctor about using oral prescription medication for 6-12 weeks, combined with topical antifungal treatment. You may need regular monitoring of kidney function while on these medications.

Consider using homeopathic treatments. Some alternative remedies can be highly effective for treating toenail fungus in certain cases.

• Apply a thin layer of tea tree oil to the infected toenail 2-3 times a day. Make sure to use 100% pure tea tree oil.
• Apply Snakeroot extract – a treatment proven to work similarly to conventional antifungal creams.
• Soak the infected toenail in white vinegar – a substance with natural antibacterial properties. After trimming the toenail, dip cotton balls, a clean cloth, or cotton swabs in undiluted vinegar and apply to the nail 1-2 times daily for a few weeks.

Consult a doctor about surgery for severe cases. Surgery may be necessary if the infected toenail causes significant pain. The procedure typically involves the complete removal of the infected toenail, often combined with antifungal treatment applied to the nail bed.

• Rest assured that the new toenail will grow back, though it may take up to a year.

Wear appropriate footwear. Fungus thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas, so it’s essential to wear light, breathable shoes and frequently change footwear.

• Discard old shoes that could be harboring fungus.
• Change socks twice a day if your feet tend to sweat.
• Opt for shoes made from natural fabrics like cotton or wool, or synthetic materials designed specifically to absorb moisture.
• Expose your feet to sunlight and fresh air whenever possible.

Keep your feet dry and clean. Wash your feet with antibacterial soap and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

• Use a clean towel each time you wash your feet to avoid reinfection from dirty towels.
• Apply antifungal powder between your toes and around the soles of your feet.
• Trim your toenails short and keep them clean, particularly for those with toenail fungus.

Boost your immune system. A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to fungal infections like athlete's foot and toenail fungus.

• Ensure you get enough sleep.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
• Take a multivitamin supplement daily or several times a week.
• Engage in outdoor activities, especially under sunlight, to get enough vitamin D.
• Manage stress and anxiety through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation methods.

Exercise regularly. Exercise is not only beneficial for your overall health but also essential for fighting infections and preventing recurrence. Since blood circulation in the feet is lower than in other parts of the body, the immune system may struggle to detect and eliminate infections in the feet.

• Start slow if you're not accustomed to regular exercise – walking, swimming, or light calisthenics can help improve circulation in the feet.
• Try light weightlifting at home or in the gym.
• Take the stairs often and park farther away from your destination. Even a bit more walking can help prevent fungal infections from recurring.

• Avoid walking barefoot in public places or indoors (where many people walk barefoot) to prevent spreading the infection to others.
• Side effects of antifungal medications may include skin rashes and kidney damage.