Athlete’s foot is a frustrating and common fungal infection caused by a fungus called Trichophyton rubrum. If you’re an athlete, you may be wondering, “Does chlorine kill athlete’s foot?”
The answer is a little complicated, so we’ll take a look at whether swimming pools are a threat, what you can do to prevent athlete’s foot, and how to treat it if you get it.
What is Athlete’s Foot, Anyway?
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection, usually caused by the Trichophyton rubrum fungus.
These fungi love keratin, which is a type of protein found in your skin, hair, and nails. So, your feet are a tasty buffet for them.
If you have athlete’s foot, you’ll probably notice itching, burning, and scaling, especially between your toes. Not fun! You might consider using an antifungal foot powder spray to stop athlete’s foot fast.
Chlorine and its role in pool sanitation
Chlorine is a disinfectant that’s used to kill bacteria and viruses in swimming pools. But what about fungus? Does chlorine kill athlete’s foot?
Well, the effectiveness of chlorine on fungi like Trichophyton rubrum (the most common cause of athlete’s foot) is up for debate. Although pool operators are supposed to maintain proper chlorine levels to keep the water safe from bacteria and other pathogens, fungi may be more resistant to chlorine than other germs. So, while chlorine might help, it isn’t a sure thing.
The risks of athlete’s foot and swimming pools
Even though chlorine has antifungal properties, pools can still be a breeding ground for athlete’s foot. The water itself, along with the surfaces around the pool and in the locker rooms, can harbor the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.
Fungus thrives in moist environments, so the moisture around pools increases your risk of infection. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the fungus that causes athlete’s foot is often found on the floors and ground near pools, gyms, showers, and locker rooms.
Preventing Athlete’s Foot in Swimming Environments
You can protect yourself from athlete’s foot at the pool by taking a few simple steps.
Personal Hygiene Practices
Be sure to:
- Shower before and after swimming, paying special attention to washing your feet.
- Thoroughly dry your feet with a clean towel after swimming.
- Wear flip-flops or water shoes when walking around the pool area. This is the most important step to avoid contamination.
Pool Cleanliness and Maintenance
Swimming pools should be properly sanitized to prevent the spread of infections like athlete’s foot. You can check with your local health department to learn more about pool cleanliness in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I swim with foot fungus?
While swimming itself isn’t necessarily harmful, it’s important to consider the risk of spreading the infection. To minimize transmission, keep your feet covered with waterproof bandages or socks, and thoroughly wash and dry your feet immediately after swimming. Also, avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like locker rooms and pool decks.
Is chlorine an antifungal?
Chlorine has some antifungal properties, but it’s not a reliable treatment for athlete’s foot. While chlorinated water might inhibit fungal growth to some extent, it’s unlikely to eliminate the infection entirely. Effective antifungal treatments, such as an antifungal foot spray, are generally needed to eradicate athlete’s foot. But which are the best sprays for athlete’s foot?
Why is athlete’s foot so hard to get rid of?
Athlete’s foot can be persistent because the fungus thrives in warm, moist environments like shoes and socks. Consider using the best UV shoe sanitizer for fungus to help prevent reinfection. Re-infection is also common, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent it, such as wearing breathable shoes and keeping your feet dry.
Can salt water cure athlete’s foot?
Salt water has some antiseptic properties, which may help to cleanse and soothe the affected area. However, there’s no strong scientific evidence that salt water alone can cure athlete’s foot. It may provide temporary relief, but antifungal medication is typically required for effective treatment.
What’s the longest athlete’s foot can last?
Athlete’s foot can last for several weeks or even months if left untreated. With proper treatment, most cases resolve within a few weeks. However, recurrent infections are common, especially if preventative measures aren’t followed.
Conclusion
While chlorine is a disinfectant, it may not completely get rid of the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Wearing protective footwear in public showers and practicing good hygiene remain crucial to preventing athlete’s foot, especially if you spend time in swimming environments.