The Basics of Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection; you don't have to be an athlete to get it.
This annoying ailment occurs in boys, girls, men, and women of all ages.
Find out more about athlete's foot:
Basics
Symptoms
Treatment
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The majority of athlete’s foot cases are caused by a variety of fungi all belonging to a group called dermatophytes, which also causes jock itch and ringworm. The fungi thrive in closed, warm, moist environments and feed on keratin, a protein found in hair, nails, and skin. Rarely, athlete’s foot can be caused by non-dermatophytes, like yeast (candida).
Athlete's foot is mildly contagious. It can be spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels, shoes, or floors.
Walking barefoot may increase your chance of contracting athlete's foot. The risk of developing athlete's foot can also depend on your susceptibility. For example, people who have impaired immune systems or diabetes are at greater risk.
What Is Athlete's Foot?
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection; you don't have to be an athlete to get it.
This annoying ailment occurs in boys, girls, men, and women of all ages.
Understanding Athlete's Foot
Find out more about athlete's foot:
Basics
Symptoms
Treatment
Â
What Causes Athlete's Foot?
The majority of athlete’s foot cases are caused by a variety of fungi all belonging to a group called dermatophytes, which also causes jock itch and ringworm. The fungi thrive in closed, warm, moist environments and feed on keratin, a protein found in hair, nails, and skin. Rarely, athlete’s foot can be caused by non-dermatophytes, like yeast (candida).
Athlete's foot is mildly contagious. It can be spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels, shoes, or floors.
Walking barefoot may increase your chance of contracting athlete's foot. The risk of developing athlete's foot can also depend on your susceptibility. For example, people who have impaired immune systems or diabetes are at greater risk.
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