Suggest Treatment For Athlete's Foot

Posted on Thu, 24 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 Answered on

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had athletics foot for over 1 year. I have used Tinactin which got rid of it on my right foot. My left foot was mostly healed except for the top of my foot & my big toe. It is now cracking & bleeding again. It is bright red & swollen. I have continued 2-3 times a day with the same meds & Cortizone 10. No luck! Help!

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Over the counter creams might not help at this stage, oral meds required

Detailed Answer:
Hello ma'am and welcome.

Thank you for writing to us.

I have gone through your query with diligence and would like you to know that I am here to help. Well, first of all ma'am I would be more comfortable if you would visit a medical centre and get the region dressed in a sterile manner in order to prevent any superimposed infections, as your wound is open (bleeding) and is currently vulnerable to infections.

I also understand from your query that tinactin (tolnaftate) does not seem to be causing the desired effect in your case, and so you have other options that include:

+Lamisil (terbinafine)
+Lotrimin (clotrimazole)
+Micatin (miconazole)

But in cases where there is no response from the over-the-counter medications (creams or other topical applications), oral medications may be required which provide a much quicker and more effective result. As these are prescription medications, it would be best to visit your doctor for the same ma'am.

I hope I have provided you with adequate guidance, and also hope you can find some relief at the earliest. Please feel free to write to me anytime, I am always here to help.

Best wishes.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad