Q Can chronic athlete's foot of more than 10 years be cured?
A There is no need to give up even on long-standing chronic athlete's foot. However, if onychomycosis is also present and the skin barrier is damaged, treatment will take longer. Combining consistent oral antifungal treatment with constitutional-improvement Korean medicine treatment can achieve a cure or minimize symptoms.
Detailed Answer
Reasons why chronic athlete's foot of more than 10 years is difficult to treat: First, it has often progressed to onychomycosis. Second, the skin barrier has been repeatedly damaged, reducing its recovery capacity. Third, there is a possibility that the infecting strain has acquired resistance to antifungals. The basics are to perform fungal culture and sensitivity testing, then use an appropriate oral antifungal for a sufficient period.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we explain to chronic athlete's foot patients that "recurrence has repeated because, until now, the focus was only on eliminating the fungus." The goal is to gradually improve the Spleen-Stomach damp-heat and blood deficiency with wind-dryness (hyeolheo-pungjo) state that has built up over more than 10 years, while restoring the skin's own healing power. The treatment period is longer, but fundamental change can be achieved.
Related FAQs
-
Q
I have diabetes. Is athlete's foot more dangerous for me?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I have atopic dermatitis. Can athlete's foot occur along with it? How do I tell them apart?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I'm an office worker in my 30s. How should I care for my feet during athlete's foot treatment?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
I'm a resident of Dong-gu, Incheon. Can athlete's foot spread to my family? How do I prevent it?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
I'm pregnant. Is it safe to treat athlete's foot?
#Safety