If you have recently discovered a rash on your feet and ankles, then it may be obvious to you that you have an athlete's foot infection. While some people turn to natural treatment methods, this is often a mistake. Keep reading to learn about a few reasons why natural treatments are not always a great option.

Athlete's Foot Can Spread

While most people see an athlete's foot infection as an annoying fungal issue, it can be much more than that. The problem is caused by tinea pedis and this fungus is highly contagious. Most people will see recurrent infections as they continually infect their feet. This is due to wearing socks and shoes over and over again without washing them. However, infections can easily be spread to the feet, groin, underarms, legs, and elsewhere. 

The chances of infecting another area of your body increase the longer that the infection goes untreated. While apple cider vinegar and some essential oils are considered antifungal agents, they are not strong enough to completely eradicate a tinea pedis fungi. 

Not only can the fungus spread to your own body if you fail to properly treat it, but it can spread to others. Individuals who have compromised immune systems will develop the worst infections. If you spread the infection to immune compromised individual, it can take months of treatment for the infection to resolve. This means doing your part to keep sick individuals from becoming sicker with an ailment that you can easily treat yourself. 

Infections Can Develop

If you treat with a natural treatment, then you can develop open blisters, raw skin, weeping wounds, and bleeding cracks in your feet. When these things happen, your feet will become much more susceptible to bacterial infections. Bacterial infections can be much more dangerous and more serious to treat, especially if a Staph or MRSA infection develops.

Bacterial infections that involve the nail beds can be extremely complicated and difficult to treat. You even may need to go through a more lengthy treatment where the infected nail is removed. This helps to keep bacteria from becoming trapped underneath the nail itself.

If you do develop a bacterial infection in addition to a fungal one, you may need antibiotics, antifungal medication, and steroids. All of these medicines can cause intestinal problems and may leave your immune system more susceptible to viruses and other infections during the treatment. 

If you suspect an athlete's foot infection, then make sure to see a general physician or a podiatrist. This way treatment can be started as soon as possible to resolve the issue. For more information, visit websites like http://familyfootanklephysicians.com/.