Heel fungus is a common condition that can be difficult to treat. Some home remedies may be effective in getting rid of it. However, the best way to tackle this condition is to see a podiatrist for professional treatment. They can diagnose you accurately, recommend the best treatment, and monitor your progress.
Here’s how a podiatrist can help you get rid of heel fungus.
What Is Heel Fungus?
Heel fungus occurs when a fungus called dermatophyte grows on the skin. This fungus type is also responsible for athlete’s foot and nail fungus. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools.
Heel fungus usually starts as a small patch of dry, scaly skin. If you leave it untreated, the fungus can spread and cause the skin to become thicker and cracked. The affected area may also become discolored and inflamed.
How Does A Podiatrist Treat Heel Fungus?
Your podiatrist will first collect your medical history and ask about your symptoms. The most common symptoms of heel fungus are:
- Dry, scaly skin
- Thickened heels
- Inflamed and discolored skin
- Bad odor
- Itchiness
- A stinging sensation in the heel
Different Tests For Diagnosis
Your podiatrist will then examine the affected area. They may take a skin sample if they suspect you have heel fungus. This process is known as a KOH test and can help support the diagnosis.
In addition, they will perform a physical examination of your feet. This will help them exclude other conditions that can induce similar symptoms. Once your doctor has confirmed you have heel fungus, they will develop a treatment plan.
Heel Fungus Treatment
There are many different treatments for heel fungus, like:
Antifungal Medications
Antifungal medications may be topical or oral. Topical medications come in creams, gels, and ointments, which you can apply to the affected skin. As for oral medications, you can take them by mouth.
Over-the-counter medications can help mild cases. However, your doctor may prescribe something stronger if your condition is moderate or severe. Some examples of prescription medications are:
- Clotrimazole (Cruex, Desenex, Fungoid)
- Terbinafine (Desenex Max, Lamisil AT)
- Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy involves using a special laser to kill fungus. It’s a newer treatment option that’s showing promise.
Your podiatrist will tailor the treatment to your individual needs. They will also consider any other medical conditions you have and medications you’re taking to ensure your treatment is crafted in a healthy, effective way.
Heel Fungus Prevention
Your doctor may also recommend some lifestyle changes to help prevent heel fungus. These include:
- Wearing shower shoes or sandals in public places, such as locker rooms, showers, and pool areas
- Keeping your feet clean and dry
- Avoiding sharing towels, shoes, and other personal items with others
- Wearing socks made of natural fibers that wick moisture away from your skin
- Changing your socks and shoes daily if you have sweaty feet
Heel fungus can be stubborn, but many treatment options are available for you. If you suspect you have it, make an appointment with a podiatrist to get started on the road to recovery.
Trusted Podiatry Office In Naples, FL
Heel fungus can be challenging to treat, but a podiatrist can help. They will assess your medical history and perform a physical examination to confirm the diagnosis. Then, they will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. In addition, they may recommend some lifestyle changes to help prevent heel fungus from returning. If you think you may have heel fungus, make an appointment with a podiatrist today.
Are you looking for a trusted podiatry office in Naples, FL? Look no further than the Joint Replacement Institute. We can give you the best treatment to help you get rid of your heel fungus once and for all. We have compassionate and experienced doctors, like Dr. H. Kurtis Biggs and Dr. Brian Wallace, who truly care about their patients’ well-being.
You may call our friendly staff at (239) 261-2663 to learn about our comprehensive services. You can also fill out our convenient online appointment form to book a visit with our expert providers. We look forward to serving you!
