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Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection. It usually affects the skin between the toes.

Signs & Symptoms

1. •Moist, soft, red or gray-white scales on the feet, especially between the toes.
   

2. •Cracked, peeling, dead skin areas.
   

3. •Itching.
   

4. •Sometimes small blisters on the feet.
   

Causes

People usually pick up the fungus from walking barefoot over wet floors, around swimming pools and locker rooms, and in public showers.

Treatment

Resources

American Academy of Dermatology

888.462.DERM (462.3376)

www.aad.org

HealthyLearn®

www.HealthyLearn.com. Click on MedlinePlus®.

Questions to Ask

Self-Care / Prevention

1. •Wash your feet twice a day, especially between your toes. Dry the area thoroughly. Don’t use deodorant soaps.
   

2. •Use an over-the-counter antifungal powder, cream, or spray between your toes and inside your socks and shoes.
   

3. •Wear clean socks made of natural fibers (cotton or wool). Change your socks during the day to help your feet stay dry. Wear shoes, such as sandals or canvas loafers, that allow ventilation.
   

4. •Alternate shoes daily to let each pair dry out.

Common Health Problems  »  Skin Conditions

Do you have signs of athlete’s foot and are you diabetic or do you have poor leg circulation?

Does the fungus infection affect the toenails and do the toenails look thick or distorted?

Self-care treats most cases of athlete’s foot.

Do you have recurrent episodes of athlete’s foot?

Do you have a fever and/or is the infection spreading or getting worse despite using the self-care measures listed below?