Athlete’s Foot
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What is Athlete's Foot?
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, commonly starting between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments like locker rooms and sweaty shoes. Symptoms include itching, redness, scaling, peeling skin, and sometimes blisters or cracked skin. It is highly contagious, spreading through direct contact or shared surfaces. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams or sprays, and prevention includes keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, and avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas.
Symptoms
What Are the Symptoms of Athlete's Foot?
Itching and Burning
Intense itching, especially between the toes or on the soles of the feet.
Redness and Scaling
Inflamed, red skin with flaky or peeling patches.
Thickened or Discolored Nails
If the infection spreads to toenails, they may become thick or discolored.
Dryness
Persistent dryness or rough patches, often on the sole or sides of the foot.
Odor
A noticeable unpleasant smell in some cases.
Cracked or Blistered Skin
Cracks or blisters that may ooze or become painful.
Athlete's Foot FAQ
Athlete’s foot is caused by dermatophyte fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, showers, and sweaty footwear.
It spreads through direct contact with infected skin or by touching contaminated surfaces, such as floors, towels, socks, or shoes.
Common symptoms include itching, burning, redness, scaling, cracked skin, blisters, and, in some cases, a foul odor.
Most cases can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. Severe or persistent infections may require prescription medication.
It rarely resolves without treatment and may worsen or spread to other areas of the body if left untreated.
Prevention includes keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, using moisture-wicking socks, and avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas.
