Athlete’s Foot (or tinea pedis) is one of the most common foot infections that can affect your feet. It will usually affect the skin between your toes which may become red or look soggy and white and will be very itchy.

Your skin may also peel, flake and crack. The infection can also spread to other parts of your feet or body and can also cause a fungal infection of your nails.

Fungi thrive in moist environments such as inside your shoes and the floors around swimming pools, changing rooms and bathrooms. The fungal spores can also remain in a dormant state and then cause re-infection. Dry, split skin or damaged toenails reduces the barrier function of your skin and may make you more susceptible to infection.

Once you have been infected the fungus obtains nutrients from keratin – a protein found in your skin, hair and nails. The infection normally only affects the outermost layer of your skin.

If you are healthy you will have a naturally high immunity to infection, but genetic factors, age, nutrition and hormonal balance can make you less resistant. If you have diabetes you may be more prone to fungal infections.

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