What Diseases Can You Get From Walking Around Barefoot?

Walking around barefoot can be a relaxing enjoyable experience especially during warm weather. However it also poses some risks to your health. Here are some of the common diseases infections that you can get from walking around without shoes.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet. It’s caused by the fungus Trichophyton which thrives in warm moist environments. Walking barefoot in public places such as swimming pools locker rooms showers can expose you to this fungus. Symptoms of athlete’s foot include redness itchiness cracking peeling of the skin.

Tetanus

Tetanus is a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system. It’s caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani which enters the body through cuts scratches or wounds. Walking barefoot can expose you to this bacterium especially if you step on a rusty nail or other sharp object. Symptoms of tetanus include jaw stiffness muscle stiffness spasms.

Hookworms

Hookworms are parasites that live in the small intestine. They’re transmitted through the skin usually through contact with contaminated soil. Walking barefoot can expose you to these parasites especially if you walk in areas where there is poor sanitation or animal feces. Symptoms of hookworm infection include abdominal pain diarrhea weight loss.

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are growths on the sole of the foot that are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Walking barefoot in public places such as swimming pools locker rooms showers can expose you to this virus. Symptoms of plantar warts include a rough hard thickened skin on the sole of the foot.

Ringworms

Ringworms are a fungal infection that affects the skin hair nails. They’re caused by the fungi Microsporum Trichophyton Epidermophyton. Walking barefoot in public places such as swimming pools locker rooms showers can expose you to these fungi. Symptoms of ringworm infection include red itchy circular patches on the skin.

Conclusion

Walking around barefoot can expose you to various diseases infections especially if you do it in public places. It’s important to wear shoes or sandals to protect your feet from these risks. If you experience any symptoms of the diseases mentioned above seek medical attention immediately.