Athlete's Foot

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
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AMBULATORY CARE:

Athlete's foot

is a foot infection caused by a fungus.

Common signs and symptoms include the following:

• Cracks or blisters
• Redness, swelling, itching, or burning
• Scaly or peeling skin
• Bad smelling feet
• Thick, dark skin on the bottoms or sides of your feet
• Thick, abnormal toenails

Seek care immediately if:

• You have a fever or chills.
• You have red streaks going up your leg.

Call your doctor if:

• Your infection spreads or you have a rash on other parts of your body.
• Your infection is not better within 14 days or completely gone within 90 days.
• The skin on your foot or leg is red and hot.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment:

Athlete's foot is usually treated with an antifungal medicine. This medicine may be given as a cream or pill. You may need a doctor's order for this medicine. Take the medicine until it is gone, even if your feet look like they are healed. You may also need to soak your feet in an astringent (drying) solution if you have blisters. Ask your healthcare provider for more information on how to treat blisters.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• clotrimazole
• ketoconazole
• Lamisil
• Naftin
• terbinafine

Prevent athlete's foot:

• Prevent the spread of the fungus that causes athlete's foot. After you bathe, dry other parts of your body before you dry your feet. Put your socks on before you put other clothing on. Do not share socks, shoes, towels, or clothing with others.
• Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet each day and dry them well, especially between your toes. Then put powder on your feet and between your toes. Wear clean cotton or wool socks each day. Wear sandals, canvas tennis shoes, or other shoes that allow air to flow to your feet. Do not use shoes that are tight, or made of plastic or rubber. Wear shower shoes or sandals in public and in warm, damp areas. Examples include shower stalls, near swimming pools, and in locker rooms.
• Wash your hands after you touch your feet. Use soap and water. Do not use hand sanitizer on your hands or feet instead of soap and water. Even hand sanitizer that contains alcohol will not kill the fungus that causes athlete's foot.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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