Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet. It is medically referred to as tinea pedis, belonging to the same group of fungi, responsible for various other common fungal infections like jock itch or tinea cruris and ringworm or Tinea corporis. The fungus tends to thrive in warm and moist areas such as the region between the toes. Athlete?s foot is a fairly common condition that results in symptoms such as itching and flaking of the affected skin. The infection is more common in men.

Individuals with a compromised or weak immune system are more prone to the infection. Even children may be susceptible to athlete?s foot. The infection spreads easily through contact with an affected individual or from the sharing of personal items. Even walking barefoot on a contaminated surface can put you at risk of developing the infection. This is the reason why athlete's foot usually occurs in individuals who use common swimming pools or locker rooms. Athlete's foot also tends to recur and many individuals are likely to suffer from the infection again after a period of time.