What should you know about my athlete's foot is so itchy?

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the foot. It often causes itching, scaling, cracking, burning, or peeling between the toes and on the soles. Scratching can damage the skin and allow bacteria in. Infection can also spread to the nails or other areas. [Itchy Feet](/symptoms/foot-itching/) and [Peeling Skin](/symptoms/skin-peeling/) can have causes other than fungus, so the pattern matters.

Wash the feet and dry carefully between the toes. Change socks when damp, alternate shoes so they can dry, and avoid sharing towels or footwear. Use an over-the-counter antifungal only as directed and complete the stated course, even if itching settles early. A clinician may recommend [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) or, when appropriate, [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/). Do not scratch or apply steroid cream alone without advice.

Seek prompt care for warmth, swelling, increasing pain, pus, fever, or redness that is spreading up the foot or leg, as these can signal [Cellulitis](/conditions/cellulitis/). Arrange review if symptoms reach the nails, keep returning, or do not improve with correct treatment. People with diabetes, poor circulation, reduced immunity, or open cracks should seek advice early.

Does this look like [Athlete's Foot](/conditions/athletes-foot/) or another rash? Is the nail involved? Which treatment is suitable with my medicines, and how can I prevent reinfection?