What it is
It spreads easily through shared towels, floors and socks. Keeping feet clean and dry and changing socks daily helps stop it coming back.
If untreated it can spread to the toenails or hands. People with diabetes should get foot infections checked, as the skin heals more slowly.
Common signs
- Itchy white patches between the toes
- Red, sore, flaky or cracked skin
- Small blisters
- Dry skin on the soles
How it is usually diagnosed
- Usually recognised by how it looks
- A skin scraping sent to a lab if it does not clear
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Any skin scraping results
- Notes on treatments tried and how long they took to work
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which treatment should I use, and for how long?
- Has it spread to my nails?
- How do I stop it coming back?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A hot, swollen, painful foot with fever, especially if you have diabetes
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.