Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that commonly affects the skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet. It can cause itching, burning, peeling, and cracks in the skin. Despite its name, you do not have to be an athlete to get it.
If your symptoms keep coming back or have not improved with over-the-counter treatment, it may be time for an evaluation. At Solterra Foot and Ankle, we help patients throughout the Phoenix metro area identify the cause of their symptoms and find an effective treatment plan.
The fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm, damp environments. Feet that stay sweaty inside shoes, shared locker rooms, and walking barefoot in communal showers can all increase your exposure.
Common symptoms include:
Not every rash on the foot is athlete’s foot. Eczema, contact irritation, and other skin conditions can look similar, which is one reason persistent symptoms deserve a closer look.
Your evaluation may include:
Fungus grows best in warm, moist environments. It can spread through contact with infected skin, shared surfaces, or contaminated nail tools.
For more widespread or persistent cases, we can discuss whether a prescription treatment is appropriate. If your toenails are also affected, they may require a separate treatment plan.
It may persist or return without appropriate treatment. If an over-the-counter antifungal has not helped, an exam can confirm whether the problem is athlete’s foot or another skin condition.
Yes. The fungus can spread through contact with affected skin or contaminated surfaces. Wearing sandals in shared showers and avoiding shared towels can help reduce the risk.
Yes. A fungal infection of the skin can also affect the toenails, where it may be harder to treat. Let your podiatrist know if a nail has become thickened, discolored, or brittle.
Moisture, sweaty shoes, untreated footwear, or an infection that did not fully clear may contribute to recurrence. Sometimes a different skin condition is mistaken for athlete’s foot. An evaluation can help identify the cause.
Schedule an evaluation if symptoms persist, keep returning, or involve the toenails. Seek prompt medical care if you notice spreading redness, significant swelling, drainage, or an open sore—especially if you have diabetes.
You do not have to keep dealing with itchy, irritated skin. Solterra Foot and Ankle can help you find out what is causing your symptoms and choose the right next step.
