• Signs and Symptoms
• Athlete’s foot
  • Facts and myths
  • What causes athlete’s foot?
  • Do I have athlete’s foot?
  • Treat athlete's foot
  • How can I prevent it?
  • Who’s at risk?
• Nail Fungus
• Body Fungus

What causes athlete's foot in the skin?

A fungus

The main cause of athlete's foot is a type of fungus called dermatophytes. If you come in contact with the fungus, and if the surface of your skin provides ideal conditions for growth, the fungus attaches itself and begins to spread - typically in the skin between your toes. As a reaction, your skin might become red or itchy, or you might have other symptoms. This signals to you that something is wrong and you need to seek treatment.

Where it grows

A moist environment alone does not cause athlete's foot - but warm moist conditions provide favourable conditions for the fungus to grow in. Places where athlete's foot feels at home include public swimming pools and baths and sports clubs - as well as warm, humid parts of the world that are popular holiday destinations.

How it spreads

The fungus that causes athlete's foot is easily transmitted. If the fungus' spores are on a surface and you come into contact with them, you could possibly develop athlete's foot. To minimize your risk, take good care of your feet and inform yourself about prevention.