Don’t Be Ambushed by Foot Infections This Summer
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we want our Manhattan patients to take advantage of all the fun this season has to offer, especially this year. However, we also know that no one wants to bring home a case of toenail fungus, athlete’s foot, or warts from a summer outing. Arm yourself by knowing foot infections and not mistakenly putting yourself in a potential risk situation.
Fungi, bacteria, and viruses that cause foot infections have a few things in common:
They are transmitted by direct contact—that means someone who has an infection sheds it on the surfaces they walk barefoot on. The next person who walks over the same area barefoot can then pick it up.
Infections thrive in the dark, moist areas—that’s why they are prevalent around pools and communal showers at the gym.
Foot infections are highly contagious.
Sneaky Scenarios to Avoid
The Restroom Run—You’re spending a lovely afternoon lounging at your complex’s pool. It’s time for a restroom break, and it’s nice the facilities are so close—you don’t even have to leave the pool area. It’s a quick trip, so no need to dig out your flip-flops. MISTAKE: it’s not about the length of time you spend barefoot. Infectious agents can be anywhere on your short path, and all it takes is one step on a contaminated surface to contract an infection.
The Sister Share—After a beach day, you and your friends spontaneously decide to go out, but you’ve only got your flip-flops. A friend offers sandals you can borrow. They’re super cute and just your size, so you accept her offer. MISTAKE: sharing shoes and other items that touch another person’s feet like nail clippers, emery boards, and towels can also transmit infections.
Long Day into Night—Full suit for an important meeting today, and then you’re heading straight to an evening engagement. It’s been a hot day, and your feet feel sweaty, but unfortunately, there’s no time to go home and change, so off you go. MISTAKE: Remember those dark, moist settings fungi love? The inside of your socks or hose and shoes are one of them. Keep a spare pair handy to change when you notice your feet feel damp.
If, despite your best efforts, you notice redness, dry skin that’s itching or scaly, unusual bumps, or changes in your toenails, make an appointment at our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002 so that our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia can diagnose and treat your foot infection promptly.