How Does Athlete's Foot Cause Damage?

Symptoms

Athlete's foot can affect one or both feet. Common signs and symptoms are:

• Scaly, peeling or cracked skin between the toes
• Itchiness, especially right after taking off shoes and socks
• Inflamed skin that might appear reddish, purplish or grayish, depending on your skin color
• Burning or stinging
• Blisters
• Dry, scaly skin on the bottom of the foot that extends up the side

When to see a doctor

If you have a rash on your foot that doesn't improve within two weeks of beginning self-treatment with an over-the-counter antifungal product, see your doctor.

If you have diabetes, see your doctor if you suspect that you have athlete's foot. Also see your doctor if you have signs of an infection — swelling of the affected area, pus, fever.