Information About Athlete's Foot



Although contrary to the name, athlete's foot is a rather common skin problem
that can affect anyone at anytime, however, men are most often bothered by the
condition, as well as those people with weakened immune systems.




The
Causes and Common Signs of Athlete's Foot



Easily transmitted and often spread in public places, athlete's foot primarily
affects the area between the toes, but may also appear on the soles or sides of
the feet, as well as into the toenails. Microscopic organisms that form a
mold-like fungus that's technically known as dermatophytes causes an infection
in the uppermost layers of the skin, causing it to become thicker, scaly, and
irritated.



Not surprisingly, the primary sign of athlete's foot is intense itching between
the toes. However, blisters and discolored nails, among other symptoms are
common, although most will usually only have one or two of the following signs:



- Itching or burning between the toes, often the last two



- Burning, stinging, or itching sensations on the soles of the feet



- Extremely dry skin on the bottoms, or sometimes, the sides of the feet



- Blisters that are itchy or painful



- Thick, ragged, or discolored nails that have pulled away from the nail bed





Treating Athlete's Foot



Also known as tinea pedis, dermatophytosis, or ringworm of the foot, athlete's
foot can usually be treated with over-the-counter medication, although more
severe cases will require prescription drugs in order to get rid of the
infection completely. As soon as you notice any signs of symptoms of athlete's
foot, begin treatment immediately to prevent the infection from worsening or
spreading to other areas of the body.



For the mildest of cases, an over-the-counter topical ointment, powder, spray,
or lotion may help, such as miconazole (Micatin), terbinafine (Lamisil AT), or
clotrimazole. More serious infections, or those that haven't responded to
topical treatment may require prescription medication that's taken orally,
including fluconazole (Diflucan), or itraconazole (Sporanox).




Quick Tips for Dealing With Athlete's Foot



- Avoid sharing towels or wearing someone else's socks or footwear.



- Have several pairs of shoes that you can alternate throughout the week to give
each one ample time to dry out before wearing again.



- Change your bed's sheets at least once per week, if not twice, and do the same
for towels and wash cloths.



- Keep your feet fully protected when in public places by wearing rubber sandals
when using fitness centers, community pools, or while in other similar areas.



- Wear only socks with the highest level of absorbency, such as those made from
cotton, and if you tend to perspire heavily, change your socks several times
throughout the day.



- Wear open shoes whenever possible to allow your feet the chance to breathe,
and avoid wearing those made from synthetic materials such as rubber that don't
allow the air to circulate.



- Persistency is key when dealing with athlete's foot, remembering to apply
treatment or take medication as directed is imperative for curing this type of
infection. Patience is also necessary as expecting to see results overnight is
setting yourself up for disappointment as it takes time for the medication to be
effective.

Green Tea and Your Health

With antioxidants reported to be even more powerful than those within vitamins C
and E, green tea is gaining notable attention as a possible way of improving
many aspects of our health, and protecting us from a variety of ailments.



Found in three different mediums, including loose, bagged, or already bottled,
green tea is widely available and is also a relatively inexpensive addition to a
natural health regimen. The true connoisseur will prefer loose tea leaves, which
is less expensive than tea bags, however, the bags do offer more convenience, as
well as green tea that's already bottled.



However, it's important to know that bottled tea containing sugars or additives
won't offer the same health benefits, including the highly sought after
antioxidants, that brewed tea will. While still better than soda or other drinks
containing large amounts of sweeteners, green tea should be brewed at home
naturally, allowed to steep, and then drank or bottled.



The Possible Health Benefits of Green Tea



Thanks to the advances of modern medicine, numerous research studies are being
conducted to evaluate the possible health benefits of drinking green tea, and
many have found a number of promising results. Here are a few of those benefits:



- Promoting weight loss

- Treating infections

- Easing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis

- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease

- Reducing cholesterol levels

- Boosting immune function

- Preventing tooth decay

- Delaying hair loss



Due to the antibacterial properties naturally found within the tea's leaves,
green tea may also be useful for dealing with acne and similar skin problems. In
China, the beverage is actually referred to as "pimple tea," and one or two cups
per day is said to noticeably improve the skin's appearance.



Warding off certain types of cancer is yet another benefit of green tea as
scientists recently found it contains a compound that inhibits the growth of
cancerous cells. This study from Japan found that epigallocatechin gallate, or
EGCg binds itself to the cells, and researchers are hopeful about its possible
benefits for also treating the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).



Green Tea and Caffeine



As of yet, the only negative health ramification associated with consuming green
tea is an increased instance of insomnia due to the tea's caffeine content.
However, many people are surprised to learn that there is actually less caffeine
in green tea than there is in coffee, with coffee registering at over 100
milligrams per eight ounce cup, while tea measures in anywhere from 30 to 60
milligrams for the same amount.



For those concerned with their caffeine intake, there are now green tea
supplements in capsule form without the usual caffeine, but with the same
benefits. This is especially helpful for those with heart conditions, or who are
easily affected by the side effects it may cause, as the antioxidants are still
there, but only the caffeine is removed.



Besides the regular, plain variety, green tea can also be found in several
different, pleasing flavors that won't need sugar or other additives, most of
which will negate the tea's antioxidant qualities. Some flavors you may see are
honey ginseng, pineapple, ginger, and orange.

For more information grab your

Complete Guide To Green Tea today!