America is becoming a very unsanitary place with more than half of all homes and businesses harboring hundreds of different species of mold and bacteria. It is surprising that with these statistics we do not see more cases of athlete’s foot and jock itch but then again, most that have been infected by these bacteria are unaware that they have it. Athlete’s foot is commonly misdiagnosed as ring worm to be cured with a useless cream, what you may not know is that the process of cleaning your feet before applying the cream is what heals your infection. Athlete’s foot is a communicable disease transmitted from human to human and in some cases even animal to human. It is caused by a parasite fungus that attaches itself to a host and deteriorates the skin in which it has attached itself. Commonly found on the bottom of the feet and between the toes. The beginning stages of athlete’s foot involve itching and redness between the toes and soles of the feet. Blistering and small bumps will be present and will resemble ringworm. If the athlete’s foot is not properly taken care of the blisters will begin to crack and the skin will peel which can become very painful and uncomfortable. In some cases the feet and toes will begin to bleed and become subjected to a second infection that can result in amputation. Athlete’s foot is common in adult males and teens as well as anyone with a low immune system. This infection can be spread through direct contact with someone infected with these bacteria and is found in showers, around pools, locker rooms and anywhere that people walk around with bare feet. This parasite can also be spread by scratching and can often travel to the genital areas resulting in jock itch. To cure and prevent athlete’s foot you should always keep your feet clean and dry by regularly washing your feet including between toes and under toe nails with an antibacterial soap. Make sure that your feet are completely dry before putting on socks and shoes by sprinkling baby powder inside your shoes and socks as well as all over your feet to absorb the moisture. If your feet begin to sweat or your feet are exposed to moisture remove your shoes and socks immediately to allow your feet to dry and put on fresh socks and shoes. If you believe that you have athlete’s foot you should take the proper measures to protect your feet from this fungus taking over. Seek medical attention if your symptoms do not go away or if they re appear. To find out more on how you can prevent household mold in your home from taking over visit: