Knowing The Causes Statistics show that almost 70 to 80 percent of the world s population has experienced athlete s foot at one point of their lives. This is because it can easily be acquired by direct contact with the things or person who has been infected with the fungi. Aside from having direct contact to the person or the object that has been infected, athlete s foot can also be transmitted through contact with pets that carry it the fungus on their furs. If all these measures failed and you now have to deal with Athlete s Foot then go to the nearest drug store because there are over the counter topical and oral medications available. You can ask for suggestions from your pharmacists which brands to buy but it does not really matter because most of these brands as long as they are not fake meds have the same working ingredients. Aside from these facilities, the fungus that causes the skin disease can also be found on the floors and clothing as well as to dark, warm, or humid areas. Usually, the infection spreads through direct contact with contaminated or infected objects or surfaces. Aside from the skin of the foot, soles and toenails can also be affected when it s not given proper medication. A skin infection in the foot caused by a fungus known as trichophyton, athlete s foot can be a major skin condition if it s not treated and prevented early. It is best to visit a dermatologist or podiatrist to cure the problem before it gets worse. If you are advised by the physician to use medication either topical or oral make sure that you educate yourself about the proper prevention of athlete s foot to keep it from being recurrent. There are also other natural remedies available to get rid of athlete's foot. Some ingredients easily found in the kitchen can help in trying to stop the fungus infection from getting worse. Garlic for one is seen as a good fungicide that can kill of the fungus causing the infection. Applying crushed garlic on your feet regularly may be able to help cure you from athlete's foot. You can also treat athlete s foot by not using shoes that are too-tight or those made from synthetic materials or leather. This will allow your feet to be properly ventilated. Whenever possible, wear sandals, or open-to shoes to let your feet breathe. You can also use anti-fungal powders and sprays to keep the feet dry and smelling clean.