Fungal infection warning: Why you should NEVER wear unwashed socks

Athlete’s foot is a rash triggered by a fungus that usually appears between the toes.

According to the NHS, it can leave sufferers with itchy, red, scaly, dry, cracked or blistered skin.

While it’s not usually serious, it should be treated to stop it spreading.

This is because it could reach the lymph system, causing an infection of the lymph vessels and lymph nodes.

Additionally, in some cases the original affected area can be infected with bacteria.

This can lead to cellulitis, leaving the skin red, hot and swollen.

According to the NHS, the main cause is fungi growing and multiplying on the skin.

It thrives in warm, dark and moist places.

These six factors could cause athlete’s foot.

Dirty, damp feet

According to the NHS, not keeping your feet clean and dry can make you more likely to develop it.

They suggest drying your feet gently after washing them thoroughly – particularly the areas between your toes.

Use talcum powder on your feet to stop them getting sweaty, but avoid moisturising in the area as this could help fungi multiply.

Wrong shoes

Wearing shoes that cause your feet to get hot and sweaty also raises your risk.

The NHS advise changing your shoes every couple of days, allowing them to dry out between uses.

You should also wear a fresh pair of socks, tights or stockings every day, and wear cotton socks and roomy shoes made of natural materials such as leather to allow your feet to “breathe”.

Gym changing rooms

Being barefoot in areas such as communal showers, locker rooms and gyms also increases your likelihood.

These are places where fungal infections can spread easily.

Used towels

You shouldn’t share towels, socks and shoes with other people.

Additionally, the NHS recommend washing your towels regularly.

Immune system

Having a weakened immune system can up your risk.

This is because this group of people are more prone to infection.

Diabetes

Sufferers often mistake flaking and peeling skin – symptoms of athlete’s foot – for a large area of dry skin, meaning that it goes untreated.

This could be concerning if small cuts and bleeding in the skin gets infected by bacteria, leading to cellulitis.