Athlete's Foot:  is caused by an organism that lives on the skin and breeds best under warm, moist conditions.  If left untreated it can lead to cracks in the skin and invite a bacterial infection. Mildly contagious.

Cause:  Caused by a fungal infection same as jock itch - called dermatophytes.  This type of organism thrives and feeds on keratin a protein found in hair, nails and skin.

Risk factors:  walking barefooted in public bathrooms, showers, gym. Not changing your socks often, letting your feet stay sweaty.

Symptoms:

Itchy, scaly, rash (red) around toes and may be all over foot

Dry, flaking skin

Food odor

May have blister

Treatment:

Antifungal medication ( containing either miconazole nitrate & tolnaftrate ) such as Micatin products, or fatty acids such as Desenex.

Keep feet dry  (change your socks often)

For diabetic patients:  IMPORTANT see your doctor or podiatrist promptly. Do not attempt to treat any foot problem by yourself.

Home Remedies:

Rest your feet, and keep uncovered

Use Domeboro powder or 2 tablespoons Burrow's solution in 1 pint of cold water.  Soak an untreated, white cotton cloth in the liquid and apply 3 or 4 times daily for 15 to 20 minutes.

Soak foot in a mixture of 2 teaspoon salt per pint of warm water, 5 to 10 minutes before putting antifungal medication.

Try baking soda paste between affect toes.  Take 1 table of baking soda and add warm water to make a paste.  Rinse and dry and apply a dusting of cornstarch or powder.

Air your shoes, try not to use the same shoe the next day. Changing allows time for the shoe to dry.