Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can be prevented by the following suggestions:
- Wash and dry feet thoroughly, taking extra care to dry between the toes.
- Use powder to keep the feet dry.
- Keep socks and footwear clean and dry; socks can be changed several times daily.
- Wear footwear made of breathable materials that allow air to circulate around the feet; constricting footwear, stockings, and socks can trap moisture and perspiration on the feet.
- Never share socks or footwear.
- Do not use someone else’s foot hygiene instruments, such as emery boards, nail clippers, or foot files
- Do not walk barefoot in public areas such as showers, pools, and locker rooms; instead, wear plastic flip-flops, slides, or shower shoes.
Sweaty feet can be treated with a black tea foot soak: Using two tea bags per pint of water, brew strong black tea by boiling it for 15 minutes; add two quarts of cold water; and soak the feet for half an hour daily for seven days in a row. The black tea contains bacteria-destroying acids and also shrinks pores, which can help keep perspiration at bay. Vinegar foot soaks are also effective: Mix one part vinegar with two parts cool water and soak.
A podiatrist can prescribe ointments to apply to the feet at bedtime. There are also medical treatments such as iontophoresis and surgical procedures that can control extremely sweaty feet.