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What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It most often develops between the toes but can also affect the soles, sides, and heels of the feet. The fungus grows best in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public showers.
Although athlete’s foot is usually mild, untreated infections can spread to other parts of the foot or to the toenails.
Why Athlete’s Foot Matters
Prompt treatment helps relieve itching and discomfort while reducing the risk of the infection spreading or causing skin cracks that may lead to bacterial infections.
Common Symptoms
- Itching or burning between the toes
- Red, scaly skin
- Peeling or cracked skin
- Dry, flaky soles
- Blisters
- Unpleasant foot odor
Risk Factors
- Walking barefoot in public locker rooms or pools
- Wearing tight or non-breathable shoes
- Excessive sweating
- Sharing towels or footwear
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune system
How Is Athlete’s Foot Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers usually diagnose athlete’s foot through a physical examination. In some cases, a skin scraping may be examined under a microscope or sent to a laboratory for testing.
How Is Athlete’s Foot Treated?
Treatment typically includes over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams, sprays, powders, or oral antifungal medications for more severe infections. Keeping the feet clean and dry is an important part of treatment.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals assist with proper foot hygiene, encourage medication adherence, monitor for signs of worsening infection, and support individuals who have difficulty performing their own foot care, especially those with diabetes or limited mobility.
Home Care Tip
Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day, especially between the toes, and change socks regularly to help prevent fungal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Athlete’s Foot
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Yes. The fungus can spread through direct skin contact or by walking barefoot on contaminated surfaces.
Can athlete’s foot go away without treatment?
Mild cases may improve, but treatment is usually recommended to prevent the infection from spreading or recurring.
Can home care help manage athlete’s foot?
Yes. Home care professionals can assist with foot hygiene, medication reminders, and monitoring for complications, particularly in individuals at higher risk of infection.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider if the infection does not improve after treatment, spreads to the toenails, becomes painful, or if you have diabetes and develop redness, swelling, or drainage from the affected area.
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