Athlete’s foot can be very aggravating and if it is a very bad case can hurt badly. The white flakes and peeling skin and that itch are symptoms of athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungi that lives and reproduces in damp, wet and warm places. There are several remedies available to get rid of this fungi from the feet and from your house, it is very contagious.

The fungi that causes athlete’s foot is a strong one. So if some of the symptoms disappear quickly do not stop you treatments. You must continue the treatments for at least a month.

The first step is to keep the feet as dry as possible: this fungi can still survive in dry places as well as wet. There are over the counter medicated powders that are available, but remember to use as the package advises and continue the use of the chosen powder for a month or more.

Their are also over the counter creams that work for killing the fungi, the creams should be used in conjunction with the powder. The creams are medicated and the powders help keep the feet dry. Be sure only to use the medicated creams, do not use moisturizing creams or petroleum jelly, these creams only trap moisture.

It is best to avoid panty hose or polyester, use cotton as much as possible. Cotton allows the skin to breathe this allows the feet to heal and prevents moisture build up. Since you will be wearing socks remember to change them daily and wash them with a disinfectant. This will aid in the healing process, it will stop infecting the area again, but putting on socks that have the fungi still in it. Heat seams to help kill the fungi, it has been recommended that before putting on your socks to heat them in a dryer, this will help kill the fungi.

The last step is to air out the shoes, on a sunny day place the shoes outside in the sunlight. The heat and sunlight will help destroy the fungi.

If within ten to fourteen days if the treatments you have done at home do not work, it is best at this point to contact your physician. They have test that can be done to determine what exactly fungi you have. This will the physician determine if a stronger prescription cream or gel is needed.