Myths about Athlete's Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common condition that causes red, itchy feet. Here are a few myths about athlete’s foot:

1 - Only athletes get athlete’s foot.

Anyone exposed to the fungus that causes athlete’s foot can get infected. The condition got its name because this particular fungus is common in areas where athletes hang out, such as showers and locker rooms.

2 - Only people with poor hygiene get athlete’s foot

You can get athlete’s foot even if you wash your feet constantly and washing them will not clear up the fungus.

3 - You can only get athlete’s foot by walking barefoot in areas where fungus is present.

Walking in an area where the fungus lives is only one way to get athlete’s foot. You can get infected by sharing a towel, socks, shoes or bed sheets with someone who has athlete’s foot.

4 - If the skin between your toes is not peeling, you do not have athlete’s foot.

There are many different symptoms of athlete’s foot. You can get peeling between the toes, but you may just have redness or dryness on the bottom of the feet.

5 - You cannot get athlete’s foot if your feet are covered in shoes and socks.

Fungus thrives in dark, damp places. If your shoes or socks are wet, it is possible to get athlete’s foot.

6 - Once athlete’s foot is treated, it won’t return.

Athlete’s foot can reappear if you do not take steps to prevent it.

Image by Teresa Trimm. Athlete's Foot03. (2012). Flickr.