Frequently Asked Questions on Athlete Foot

What exactly is athlete foot?

Athlete foot is a foot fungus that can make your feet itch and burn. Many people who have athlete foot claim their feet feel like “they’re on fire.” Some strains of athlete foot can even cause small blisters or fluid-filled vesicles to appear on affected areas.

Where is the athlete foot fungus located?

Athlete foot can show up on your entire foot as a red, scaling rash, but is most commonly found between the fourth and fifth toes.

What causes athlete foot?

Perspiration is the main cause of athlete foot. Wet feet trapped in closed-in shoes, socks and hose provide the perfect environment for the athlete foot fungus, which thrives in warm, dark, moist climates.

Who gets athlete foot?

Anyone can get athlete foot. It is not just a condition that affects athletes.

Is athlete foot contagious?

Yes, athlete foot is contagious, so be careful when walking around at public gyms, pools or locker rooms.

Is there another name for athlete foot?

Yes, athlete foot is also called tinea pedis.

I don’t want to get athlete foot. What should I do?

Keeping your feet dry is the best way to prevent against athlete foot, but here are some other tips for athlete foot prevention:

• Athlete Foot Prevention Tip #1: Wash feet with an anti-bacterial soap to keep your feet safe from the athlete foot fungus.
• Athlete Foot Prevention Tip #2: Dry feet well after showering or bathing to keep your feet safe from the athlete foot fungus.
• Athlete Foot Prevention Tip #3: Apply anti-fungal powders and creams to absorb excess moisture and help keep your feet safe from the athlete foot fungus.
• Athlete Foot Prevention Tip #4: Change your socks often, especially after exercising or perspiring, to keep your feet safe from the athlete foot fungus.
• Athlete Foot Prevention Tip #5: Wear rubber sandals when using public showers or pools or going to the gym to keep your feet safe from the athlete foot fungus.

What if I do get athlete foot?

If you develop a case of athlete foot, careful hygiene and the regular use of anti-fungal creams and powders should help alleviate symptoms of the athlete foot fungus.

Do I need to see a doctor if I have athlete foot?

You should see a doctor for athlete foot treatment only if you continue to have problems. If your case of athlete foot does not go away within a reasonable amount of time, you could have contracted something besides the athlete foot fungus.

Information on foot and lower body health conditions like athlete foot provided by The Podiatry Institute, dedicated to advancing the standard of care in podiatric medicine and its effects on muscoskeletal health.