The culprit is a group of fungi
Athlete's foot between the toes is caused by a group of
fungi (FUN-guy) called dermatophytes (dur-MAT-oh-fights).
These fungi like to grow in warm, damp places, and feet
often provide the perfect place where they can thrive.1
There are many ways to get the fungi2
You can get athlete's foot between the toes by walking
barefoot (especially in public places) and by wearing tight
shoes that don't allow your feet to "breathe" or socks made
from synthetic materials (like polyester) that encourage
dampness.1
Athlete's foot between the toes plays favorites
Sorry guys, but more men than women are likely to get athlete's foot
between the toes.1 It also tends to run in families, but the genetic reasons
are not completely clear.3 Plus, people with a weakened immune system
are at greater risk.1
Itching and burning are just two of the clues
Symptoms may include itching and discomfort. Some other symptoms you may
experience in between the toes are1,2:
- Stinging
- Burning
- Cracking or peeling skin
Since other skin conditions can sometimes look like athlete's foot between the toes,
it's important to have a skin or foot specialist — such as a dermatologist or a
podiatrist — properly diagnose and treat the condition.
If you self-treat with a nonprescription (called over-the-counter or OTC) antifungal
medicine without a correct diagnosis of athlete's foot between the toes, it may
cause you to spend money on inappropriate treatment and lead to further serious
skin conditions.2