Are your feet itchy or irritated? You may be experiencing a common foot condition called “athlete’s foot.” This condition is often accompanied by burning sensations, itchiness, and maybe even a foul smell. If your foot is showing any of these symptoms, you may have come in contact with a fungus that causes athlete’s foot. This fungus lives in warm, wet environments, such as showers, and it loves to hide in your feet. Athlete’s foot is often found between the toes or even on the soles of your feet. When you visit your doctor or health care provider, they may refer to your condition as “tinea pedis,” which is the scientific name for athlete’s foot.

The good thing about this disease is that it can be easily avoided with a few simple steps.

• The best way to avoid the fungus is to keep your feet dry—this means your entire foot, even your toes and the area between them.
• You should change your socks daily; avoid wearing the same pair for multiple days.
• If socks get wet, promptly change them to prevent the feet from being in damp conditions for long periods of time.
• Having multiple pairs of shoes can help to prevent athlete’s foot as well. Alternating between two pairs of work shoes, for instance, will allow adequate time for your shoes to dry and air out before wearing them again.
• If your feet are particularly sweaty, or if you are very active, you can even change socks halfway through your day to help keep your feet dry and fungus-free.
• You should also wear shower shoes or flip flops at public pools and gym showers to prevent picking up the fungus.
•  Sleeping barefoot with your feet out from under the covers can also help to keep them dry and less hospitable to fungus.

In case you do end up with that pesky fungus between your toes, there are some natural remedies to help get rid of it. Be sure to always dry your feet thoroughly after washing or after any of these treatments.

• Tea tree oil can help to cure athlete’s foot. You can soak your feet with tea tree oil. After soaking and drying your feet, you can also rub tea tree oil directly on the area to help destroy the fungus and keep it from spreading.
• You can also soak your feet in a solution of salt, apple cider vinegar, and warm water. The high acidity of this solution kills the fungus. You can also spray your feet, shoes, and sandals with this solution to prevent the fungus from spreading.
• Finally, try soaking your feet in water boiled with fresh ginger (once the water has cooled, of course!). Ginger has natural anti-fungal properties, and it smells nice!
• Sprinkle your toes with cornstarch or baking soda before putting on socks. This will help to absorb moisture and to keep your feet dry throughout the day.

If you are still unable to kick your athlete’s foot to the curb with these methods, you may consult with your doctor or pharmacist about some over-the-counter ointments or some prescription anti-fungal medicines.