What Is Athlete's Foot?
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. The medical term for this condition is tinea pedis.
Common Symptoms
- Itching, stinging, and burning between the toes
- Cracking and peeling skin
- Redness and scaling on the feet
- Dry, flaky skin on soles
- Blisters in severe cases
Risk Factors
- Wearing tight, closed-toe shoes
- Having sweaty feet
- Walking barefoot in public areas like pools or locker rooms
- Sharing shoes or towels with infected people
- Having a weakened immune system
Treatment Options
Over-the-Counter Treatments
- Antifungal creams (miconazole, clotrimazole)
- Antifungal powders
- Antifungal sprays
Prescription Medications
- Stronger topical antifungal medications
- Oral antifungal medications for severe cases
Prevention Methods
- Keep feet dry, especially between toes
- Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks
- Change socks regularly
- Use antifungal powder preventively
- Never share footwear
When to See a Doctor
- If symptoms persist after 2 weeks of self-treatment
- If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system
- If the infection is severe or recurring
- If you develop secondary bacterial infections
Complications
Untreated athlete's foot can lead to:
- Bacterial infections
- Spread to other body parts
- Infection of toenails
- Spread to other people
Long-term Management
Maintain good foot hygiene and continue preventive measures even after symptoms resolve to prevent recurrence.