Little Red Bumps on the Toes
Little red bumps on your toes may seem like an alarming problem, but they're usually no cause for major concern. One of the most common reasons for little red bumps is a fungal infection known as athlete's foot. According to MayoClinic.
Little red bumps on your toes may seem like an alarming problem, but they're usually no cause for major concern. One of the most common reasons for little red bumps is a fungal infection known as athlete's foot. According to MayoClinic.com, you can develop little red bumps in the form of blisters, along with several other symptoms, if you contract athlete's foot. Always consult your doctor to obtain a proper diagnosis and to discuss the appropriate course of treatment.
Symptoms
If you contract athlete's foot, you may suffer from one or several of the characteristic symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. Along with red, itchy blisters and bumps between your toes, you may also experience excessive dryness, cracking or itching on the soles of your feet and thick, peeling toenails that pull away from the nail bed.
Causes
Athlete's foot is generally caused by a fungal infection of your foot. According to NHS UK, although everyone has a certain amount of fungi and bacteria on their feet, some conditions can cause them to multiply and spread, resulting in the fungal infection known as athlete's foot. These conditions include direct, skin-to-skin contact with others who have athlete's foot and indirect contact, such as through touching infected socks, clothing, sheets or other materials. The infection is usually passed on in dark, humid or damp places, such as swimming pools and showers.
Considerations
If left untreated, certain complications may arise from athlete's foot, according to MayoClinic.com. You may develop a secondary bacterial infection, in which the bacteria that caused the initial case of athlete's foot start to break down the tissues between your toes. Additionally, you may also suffer from an allergic reaction that causes an outbreak of blisters on certain parts of your body.
Home Remedies
Most cases of athlete's foot can be treated using home remedies, according to NHS UK. Avoid sharing towels and wear plastic flip-flops or other protective shoes when walking in shared shower or bathing areas. Wash your feet often, especially after bathing or swimming in shared areas. Dry your feet off thoroughly, being careful to dry the areas between your toes. Wear breathable, cotton socks to allow for air circulation between your toes.
Medical Treatment
Generally speaking, over-the-counter creams, powders and applications can help to clear up most cases of athlete's foot. According to MayoClinic.com, these creams should contain active ingredients such as butenafine, miconazole or tolnaftate. If your condition doesn't respond to over-the-counter treatments, you may need to consult your doctor to obtain a stronger, prescription strength cream or oral medication to combat the infection.