How is athlete's foot different in athletes?

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the foot. Training and competition can leave the skin warm and damp for long periods, particularly inside tight shoes or socks. Communal showers, changing rooms, pools and borrowed equipment can also expose athletes to fungal particles. Symptoms may include peeling or soggy skin between the toes, itching, burning, scaling on the soles, or blisters. Cracks can make walking and exercise uncomfortable and give bacteria an opening. Not every itchy foot is athlete's foot; dermatitis and other conditions can look similar.

Wash and dry the feet carefully, including between the toes, after training. Change damp socks promptly and alternate footwear so shoes can dry fully. Wear sandals in communal wet areas and do not share towels, socks or shoes. Follow the directions for an antifungal treatment recommended by a pharmacist or clinician, and continue for the advised course even if itching improves early. Keep the affected skin covered in shared spaces and wash towels and socks regularly. Persistent infection may need a different treatment or confirmation of the diagnosis.

Arrange an assessment if the rash spreads, keeps returning, affects the nails, or does not improve with appropriate self-care. Seek prompt help for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, fever or red streaks, particularly when cracks are present. Athletes with diabetes, poor circulation or reduced immunity should obtain advice early rather than treating an open or inflamed foot without review.

Ask whether the appearance confirms a fungal infection, which treatment fits your training schedule, how to manage footwear and teammates' exposure, and when it is reasonable to return to shared wet facilities.