The name can be very misleading. Athletes are not the only ones who can be affected with an itchy condition called Athlete's Foot. Athlete's foot or tinea pedis is one of the most common fungal infection. It can be easily spread in public showers, locker rooms, and fitness centers. The toes are usually the first target of this kind of infection but it can spread to the toenails, sides, and soles of the feet. In general, many cases of athlete's foot can be treated with over-the-counter and prescription drugs in more severe cases.

The signs and symptoms of athlete's foot may include the following:

Itching, stinging and burning between your toes, especially the last two toes

Itching, stinging and burning on the soles of your feet

Itchy blisters

Cracking and peeling skin, especially between your toes and on the soles of your feet

Excessive dryness of the skin on the bottoms or sides of the feet

Nails that are thick, crumbly, ragged, discolored or pulling away from the nail bed

Bumps on the feet

Redness and scaling on the soles of the feet

Skin between the toes may look "cheesy" and have an unpleasant odor

Athlete's foot infection can be acquired through direct contact with the fungus, once contacted it may grow on the skin. Fungi commonly grow on or in the top layer of human skin and may or may not cause infections. The areas between the toes are the primary breeding ground of fungi that causes athlete's foot because it is warm and moist, conditions that appropriate for fungal growth. Though contagious, some individuals are more susceptible to the infection than others. Susceptibility may increase with age. Health and fitness specialists don't know why some people are more likely to get it. Individuals who come in contact with athlete's foot fungi can spread it to other whether they get infected or not.

Doctors may usually prescribe over-the-counter antifungal topical ointment, lotion, powder, or spray. Many infections usually respond well to these topical medications. Severe cases may not respond well to topical medicine and may require oral prescription drugs and antibiotics if the infection is accompanied by bacterial infection. These drugs should be taken as prescribed by doctors to prevent the development of side effects and other unwanted conditions. Improper use of antibiotics for example may lead to the development of antibiotic resistance or microorganisms' ability to withstand the effects of even the most potent antibiotic.

Maintaining proper hygiene may help prevent the development of athlete's foot. Other guidelines in preventing the development of this condition may include the following:

Keep the feet dry, especially between the toes. Go barefoot to let the feet air out as much as possible when home.

Use natural materials. Wear socks that are made of natural material, such as cotton or wool, or a synthetic fiber designed to draw moisture away from the feet.

Change socks regularly. If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks twice a day.

Wear light, well-ventilated shoes. Avoid shoes made of synthetic material, such as vinyl or rubber.

Alternate pairs of shoes. This allows time for your shoes to dry.

Protect your feet in public places. Wear waterproof sandals or shower shoes in communal showers, pools, fitness centers and other public areas.

Athlete's foot can be treated or prevented with the right anti-fungal products and preventive care.