Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a common infection caused by the tinea fungus. It is not serious. Symptoms include itching, burning and cracked, scaly skin between your toes. Tinea grows best in damp, dark and warm places, which is why it often develops between your toes. It can spread to your toenails, as well, making them thick and crumbly.

You can get athlete's foot from damp surfaces, such as locker room floors. To prevent it

• Wash your feet every day
  
• Dry your feet well, especially between your toes
  
• Wear clean socks
  
• Don't walk barefoot in public areas
  
• Wear flip-flops in locker room showers

Treatments include over-the-counter antifungal creams for most cases and prescription medicines for more serious infections.

The American Podiatric Medical Association offers this list of possible treatment regimens:

• Topical antifungal creams, sprays or ointments.
  
• Oral antifungal drugs.
  
• Fungicidal chemicals may work, but may not penetrate deeply enough into the skin.
  
• Powder inside shoes and socks.

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