The name is misleading, and makes many think that this infection is something reserved for gym-hitting athletes. But tinea pedis, more commonly called athlete’s foot, is a common skin infection that can strike anyone. Because it is contagious, it is often spread via contaminated floors, towels and clothing.

Athlete’s foot is more common in men than in women because they are more likely to wear heavy shoes and socks, which provides a breeding ground for the fungus to develop. This fungal infection, which is closely related to other fungal infections like ringworm and jock itch, usually begins between the toes but can spread around the foot and even onto the hands.

What Are the Signs?

Athlete’s foot is easily identified by its most common symptom: cracked, peeling skin between the toes or on the side of the foot. This infection has a number of additional tell-tale signs, including:

●     Itching, stinging and burning between the toes, which is often most severe right after removing shoes and socks

●     Itching, stinging and burning that extends across the soles of the feet

●     Blisters or ulcers on the feet that itch, ooze or become crusty

●     Cracked, peeling skin on the feet that extends from the toes and sides of the feet onto the soles of the feet

●     Raw skin on the feet

●     Thick, discolored and crumbling toenails

●     Toenails that pull away from the nail bed