Athlete's Foot


Athlete's foot is a rash on the skin of the foot. It is the most common fungal skin infection. There are three main types of athlete's foot. Each type affects different parts of the foot and may look different.


Athlete's foot spreads easily. You can get it by touching the toes or feet of a person who has it. People often get it by walking barefoot near swimming pools or in locker rooms. The fungi then grow in your shoes, especially if your shoes are so tight that air cannot move around your feet.

Athlete's foot can make your feet and the skin between your toes burn and itch. The skin may peel and crack. Your symptoms can depend on the type of athlete's foot you have.

You can treat most cases of athlete's foot at home with overthecounter lotion, cream, or spray. For bad cases, your doctor may give you a prescription for pills or for medicine you put on your skin.