Foot fungus is a common problem. In fact, estimates suggest that as many as 7 in 10 people will experience this itchy, and sometimes painful, infection at some point. If you’re dealing with foot fungus, you’re probably interested in any remedy that might help.
One popular home remedy is soaking feet in baking soda for fungus. But does it actually work?
This article explores the potential of baking soda as a treatment for foot fungus, as well as its limitations. Understanding both the benefits and drawbacks can help you decide if this approach is right for you. However, using baking soda for foot fungus is not a replacement for seeing a doctor.
Understanding foot fungus
What is foot fungus?
Foot fungus is a very common skin infection caused by mold-like organisms that thrive on your feet.
The medical term for foot fungus is tinea pedis.
Types of foot fungus
The most common type of foot fungus is athlete’s foot. There are different forms of athlete’s foot:
- Toe-web type usually occurs between the fourth and fifth toes.
- Moccasin-type athlete’s foot can start with a minor irritation, dryness, itching, or scaling. As it progresses, the skin may thicken and crack. This infection can affect the soles and sides of your feet.
- Vesicular-type athlete’s foot usually begins with a sudden outbreak of fluid-filled blisters under the skin. These blisters often occur on the sole of the foot but can appear anywhere on the foot.
- Ulcerative-type athlete’s foot is less common and may include open sores.
Where fungi thrive
Fungi flourish in dark, warm, moist environments, highlighting the importance of understanding environmental factors affecting fungal growth. That’s why your feet, confined in socks and shoes all day, are particularly vulnerable. Each foot has more than 250,000 sweat glands, creating an ideal environment for fungus to grow.
What causes foot fungus?
Foot fungus, like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, is caused by a variety of microscopic fungi. These fungi love warm, moist places like socks, shoes, and the spaces between toes.
Fungi feed on keratin, a protein found in skin, nails, and hair. When conditions are right, the fungi can grow out of control and cause an infection.
Some of the most common types of fungi that cause foot infections are trichophyton, microsporum, and epidermophyton.
How does foot fungus spread?
Foot fungus is contagious and can spread through contact with infected people, contaminated surfaces, or contaminated objects.
Some common ways foot fungus spreads are:
- Walking barefoot in public places, such as locker rooms, gyms, and swimming pools
- Sharing socks, shoes, or towels with someone who has a fungal infection
- Touching or scratching infected areas on your own body, then touching other parts of your body
- Coming into contact with pets who have fungal infections
Who is at risk for foot fungus?
Some people are more likely to develop foot fungus than others. Risk factors include:
- Having sweaty feet
- Wearing closed-toe shoes frequently
- Walking barefoot in public places
- Having certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Having a minor skin or nail injury
Symptoms of foot fungus
How do you know if you have foot fungus? Well, you will probably experience some or all of the following symptoms:
- Itching
- Burning
- Potentially smelly feet
- Cracking, peeling, or scaling skin
Keep in mind that the exact symptoms can vary depending on the kind of fungal infection you have. For example, athlete’s foot usually causes itching and burning between the toes, while a moccasin-type infection causes chronic dryness and scaling on the sole of the foot.
Baking soda: What is it, and how might it help?
Baking soda is a common household product also known as sodium bicarbonate. It’s a fine white powder that people use for a variety of purposes, from baking to cleaning to freshening up the refrigerator.
But can baking soda help with fungal infections?
Potential antifungal properties
Baking soda may have antifungal properties. Fungi thrive in acidic environments. The theory is that baking soda can raise the pH levels, creating an environment that’s not friendly to fungal growth.
Some studies have shown that baking soda does have some antifungal effects. However, it’s important to note that baking soda is not a substitute for prescription antifungal medications. But it may be a helpful addition to your foot care routine.
How to soak feet in baking soda
If you want to try soaking your feet in baking soda to treat foot fungus, here’s a guide.
How to prepare a baking soda foot soak
To make a foot soak, you’ll need:
- A basin or tub big enough for both feet
- Warm water (not so hot that it burns)
- Baking soda
Mix about a half cup of baking soda into the water and stir to dissolve.
The soaking process
Once the baking soda is dissolved, soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes.
When you’re finished soaking, dry your feet thoroughly with a clean towel. Don’t forget to dry between your toes!
How often to soak
You can repeat this foot soak daily or several times a week, depending on your needs and how your skin responds.
Other considerations
Do not use baking soda on open wounds or severely broken skin. If you have diabetes, check with a healthcare provider before trying this remedy.
While soaking your feet in baking soda is generally considered safe, it’s essential to pay attention to how your skin responds. If you notice any irritation, redness, or discomfort, discontinue use.
Baking soda vs. other treatments
If you’re fighting a fungal infection, should you reach for the baking soda or an over-the-counter antifungal medication, like a fungoid cream? Well, there’s no solid evidence that baking soda works better than those OTC creams and sprays. In fact, the research supporting baking soda is pretty limited.
That said, you could consider baking soda as a complementary treatment. Since it’s alkaline, it might create an environment that’s less friendly to fungus, potentially boosting the effectiveness of other treatments. Think of it as an extra weapon in your arsenal, not the main one.
Of course, there are other home remedies people swear by, like tea tree oil. But, just like baking soda, the science behind these isn’t always rock solid.
When to See a Doctor
While soaking your feet in baking soda may help relieve some symptoms of a fungal infection, it’s not a substitute for medical care. See a doctor if:
- Your symptoms worsen or don’t improve with home treatment.
- You notice signs of a bacterial infection, such as pus, redness, or increased pain.
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system, as these conditions can make fungal infections more serious.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice if you’re concerned about a possible fungal infection.
Preventing foot fungus
The best way to deal with foot fungus is to not get it in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy and fungus-free:
- Dry your feet completely after bathing or swimming. Don’t forget between your toes!
- Change your socks every day, especially if your feet get sweaty.
- Choose shoes that let your feet breathe.
- Never share shoes or towels with anyone.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools.
In Closing
Soaking your feet in baking soda may help reduce foot odor, soften skin, and ease itching. It might even help fight fungal infections, though more research is needed to confirm this.
Remember that good foot hygiene is important, too. Keep your feet clean and dry, change your socks regularly, and wear breathable shoes. Don’t walk barefoot in public places.
If you think you have a fungal infection, or if you have any concerns about your foot health, talk to your doctor or a podiatrist. They can diagnose your problem and recommend the best treatment for you.