Spending a lazy day at the Surprise Aquatic Center is the perfect summer activity. You don’t have to worry about much except for applying sunscreen and making sure you and your children don’t bring home an unwanted foot fungus.
Foot fungus, also known as athlete’s foot, is a highly contagious fungus that tends to breed rapidly in good conditions. This includes areas that are dark, damp, and warm, which makes a place like a pool or gym locker room a perfect breeding ground. If you aren’t careful, you could end up with a difficult to control problem on your hands (or feet). Some signs to look out for include cracked, blistered, or scaly looking skin on the feet. There may also be discomfort or a foul smelling odor associated with athlete’s foot.
What Does Foot Fungus Look Like on Kids- Signs and Symtoms
Foot fungus in children can be painful and frustrating. You should check your child's feet to make sure they stay clear of common fungal infections. If your child has a fungal infection, they may begin to complain about itching feet or foot pain. Be sure to check between the toes, around the toenails, under and on top of the foot.
Signs that your child may have a foot fungus can include:
- Peeling skin
- Itching
- Redness or cracking
- Bumps or rashes
- Foot odor
- Raw or tender skin
Preventing Foot Fungus in Children
Remember that prevention is the best way to fight this problem, so prepare yourself and especially your children. Kids tend to be a little more lax in their preventative care measures against foot fungus, and they also like to share things with each other. Remind your little ones to always wear shower shoes when they’re walking around the locker room. Even if you can’t SEE fungus, just know that it’s there and waiting to strike. Tell them not to share towels or shoes with their friends.
Another important tactic to prevent athlete’s foot is to keep your feet clean and dry. This means washing them every day and drying them thoroughly, especially in between the toes. Make sure they have a few pairs of shoes to cycle through, and never let them wear the same pair of socks two days in a row.
