Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a very common fungal infection of the feet. It thrives in warm, damp conditions — between the toes, inside shoes, in public showers, pool areas, and gyms. India's hot, humid climate makes it extremely common, especially in monsoon months.

Symptoms

• Itching, burning, or stinging — especially between the toes
• Cracked, flaky, or peeling skin
• Redness, blistering, or small cuts
• Dry, scaly soles
• In chronic cases — thickened skin or discoloured nails (fungal nail infection often accompanies athlete's foot)
• Unpleasant foot odour

Causes and spread

• Fungi thrive in moisture — sweaty socks, non-breathable shoes, damp bathrooms
• Walking barefoot in communal wet areas — gym showers, hostel bathrooms, swimming pools, religious bathing areas
• Sharing towels, socks, shoes
• Weakened immunity increases susceptibility

Treatment

• Topical antifungal creams, sprays, or powders — used for 2-4 weeks; continue for 1-2 weeks after symptoms clear to prevent recurrence
• Oral antifungals — for severe, extensive, or treatment-resistant cases
• Keep feet scrupulously dry — dry between toes after bathing
• Change socks daily (more if sweaty)
• Wear breathable footwear; alternate shoes so they can dry between uses
• Treat any coexisting fungal nail infection — otherwise the infection often returns
• Don't share towels, socks, or shoes

Avoid combination creams that contain strong steroids (sold freely in many Indian pharmacies) — they worsen fungal infections long-term and drive resistant disease. Use a pure antifungal.

Prevention

• Wear flip-flops or slippers in public showers and changing rooms
• Dry feet thoroughly after bathing
• Cotton socks, changed daily
• Allow shoes to dry out — rotate pairs
• Antifungal powder in shoes during humid months
• Treat other family members if they have similar symptoms
• Treat jock itch / tinea cruris if present — same fungus, easily spreads from feet