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Help for the most common infection caused by fungus

	Even if you've had it for a long time, you should still be able to get rid of athlete's foot. However, early treatment works best. ConsumerReportsHealth.org can help you find treatments for athlete's foot that work well.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today and find out which medications rate best for treating athlete's foot.

If you or someone you know is diagnosed with athlete's foot, Consumer Reports Health can help with the best research and expert evidence and advice about treatment options.

Key points for people with athlete's foot

• Athlete's foot is a skin infection caused by a tiny fungus.
• You usually get it between your toes first.
• Lots of people get the ailment because it's easy to pick it up in places where there are shared changing rooms, such as in gyms.
• Usually, athlete's foot makes your skin itch and peel. But some people don't have any symptoms.
• You can treat athlete's foot yourself with medicine that you get from the pharmacy.
• You can keep from catching athlete's foot by washing your feet and wearing clean socks every day.
• If you have diabetes or a weak immune system because you have an HIV infection, have AIDS, or are taking certain medications (such as chemotherapy), and you think you have athlete's foot, see your doctor. Athlete's foot can cause more serious problems in people with these conditions.

About 1 in 10 adults in the United States have athlete's foot at any time. Athlete's foot is not serious, but it can make your feet sore. It's a good idea to start treatment as soon as you notice symptoms. Otherwise the infection can spread to your toenails, fingernails, and other parts of your feet and then it's harder to get rid of. There are good treatments for athlete's foot. Creams, gels and lotions can help clear it up.

We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your doctor to learn more about athlete's foot. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you’ll have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you’ll be more confident and knowledgeable about which treatments are best for you.