Overview
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection of the skin between the toes and on the soles, thriving in the warm, damp conditions of sweaty feet and closed shoes — very common in India's climate. It causes itching, peeling and cracking, usually starting between the little toes. It spreads on wet floors and shared footwear. It clears with antifungal creams and by keeping the feet clean and dry, though it tends to return if the feet stay damp.
Symptoms
- Itchy, peeling or cracked skin between the toes
- Redness, scaling and a burning feeling
- Blisters or weeping skin in some cases
- A bad foot odour
- Spread to the soles, sides of the feet or toenails
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it does not clear with antifungal creams, spreads to the nails, or the skin becomes very red, swollen or oozing, especially with diabetes.
Causes
Fungi that thrive in warmth and moisture, spread on damp floors, shared footwear and towels, and encouraged by sweaty feet in closed shoes.