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Tinea is a common skin and nail infection that is caused by invisible organisms called FUNGI.
What is tinea?
Tinea is a common skin and nail infection that is caused by invisible organisms called FUNGI. These organisms grow and spread rapidly under warm, humid/wet and dark conditions. This is why your feet are commonly affected.
Tinea may also be called Athletes foot, Tinea Pedis or a fungal infection.
How do you know if you have tinea?
Tinea can appear anywhere on the feet, however, there are three common sites:
- Between the toes - the skin may be soggy, peeling and slightly red. The area may be itchy and have an offensive odour.
- Soles and sides of feet - the skin may be dry and peeling. The tinea may appear as small red ringed patches or, less commonly, there may be the eruption of small painful fluid filled blisters.
- Nails - these become thickened and crumbly with a yellow/brown discolouration. One or more nails may be affected.
If you are not sure whether you have tinea or not, consult your Podiatrist.
Who is at risk?
People who:
| - have sweaty feet |
- are elderly |
| - have Diabetes |
- don't dry between the toes |
| - wear poorly ventilated footwear |
- wear plastic / vinyl shoes |
| - wear nylon / acrylic socks or stockings |
- engage in sporting activities |
| - walk barefoot when using showers, changing areas and swimming pools also used by other people |
Managing tinea
- Keep your feet and shower area clean and dry.
- Dry your feet thoroughly - using a separate towel
- Do not walk barefoot
- When using public showers or change rooms, always wear protective footwear such as sandals or thongs.
- Wear well fitted shoes that are made of leather, or wear sandals to allow the feet to breathe.
How is it treated?
- With a prescription from your Doctor, these antifungal preparations are available
- Loceryl – solution
- Lamisil - tablets
- Available from Pharmacies are preparations such as:
- Daktarin - cream or tincture
- Tinaderm - cream, solution or spray
- Canestan – cream
- Lamisil – cream
(Creams are best for dry areas. Tinctures and solutions are to be used on nails or between the toes.)
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