Heat, perspiration and some errors in personal care contribute to the growth of fungus on the feet during summer. So, how to avoid this?

The Dermatologist Sandro Tucto, from Clínica Ricardo Palma, points out that an adequate cleaning in the daily bath and careful drying of the skin especially between the toes are essential to keep healthy feet since residual moisture and natural sweating are an open door to the entry and installation of bacteria that origin the growth of fungus.

When the pathology has just begun, it places between the toes and then extends to the bottom and edges of the feet. Its most recurrent symptoms are intense itching and the presence of small vesicles that induce scratching which aggravates the condition. It is important to personalize the towels; they must be personal, frequently changed and washed and ironed.

The disinfection of shower floors must be done frequently because the humid and warm environment favors the growth of fungus and the risk of contagion from people who share them.

The appropriate shoes for the season are fresh and ventilated, such as leather sandals, not synthetic. Wear sneakers only for sports events or very informal situations.

In public areas, such as sauna, gyms, clubs, beaches, and hotels, regularly wear rubber shoes, taking your feet away from potentially contaminated surfaces. Regarding the widespread and ancient use of talc, it should not be applied directly on the feet, but on the palms of the hands and then on the feet. Its sweat-absorbing effect keeps the skin dry, which prevents the growth of microorganisms and the bad smell. Avoid talc on mucous surfaces, such as the eyes, mouth and the inside of the genitals.

Therefore, there are liquid talcs. There are current controversies for the possibility of causing lung reactions and for the presence of some chemical components, causing cancer when they are applied or fall inside the internal genitals.

Treatment should be established by the Dermatologist, depending on the place of infection, the number of affected nails, as well as the patient’s age and physical conditions. The treatment considers that oral administration of antifungal medicine is essential. Creams and lotions for external application are not very beneficial.

If oral administration is not possible, nail lacquers can be used, with various compositions and regular applications, thereby limiting the condition. We must consider it as a complementary and helpful therapy.

Surgical removal is not recommended because it does not completely remove the presence of fungus. Over time, the infection appears again.

It is very important to use fresh socks preferably of yarn that adequately absorb sweat and are easy to wash, with detergent or soap. Avoid socks with high synthetic components, due to their low absorbent capacity and high heat concentration.

Dr. Sandro Tucto
Dermatologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma