Athlete's Foot

Symptoms of athlete's foot vary from person to person. Some people have severe discomfort, while others have few or no symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Peeling, cracking, and scaling of the feet.
• Redness, blisters, or softening and breakdown (maceration) of the skin.
• Itching, burning, or both.

Your symptoms may depend on the type of athlete's foot you have.

• Toe web infection usually occurs between the fourth and fifth toes. The skin gets scaly, peels, and cracks. If you get a bacterial infection, the skin may break down even more.
• Moccasin-type infection may start with a little soreness on your foot. Then the skin on your sole or heel may become thick and crack. In severe cases, the toenails get infected.
• Vesicular infection usually starts with a sudden outbreak of fluid-filled blisters. The blisters are usually on the sole but can appear anywhere on your foot. You may also get a bacterial infection.

• Your doctor may suggest an over-the counter lotion or spray or may prescribe a medicine. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Keep your feet clean and dry.
• When you get dressed, put your socks on before your underwear. This can prevent the fungus from spreading from your feet to your groin.

• Wear flip-flops or other shower sandals in public locker rooms and showers and by the pool.
• Dry between your toes after swimming or bathing.
• Wear leather shoes or sandals, which let air get to your feet.
• Change your socks as needed so your feet stay as dry as possible.
• Use antifungal powder on your feet.