Athlete’s foot refers to a skin eruption that is confined to the foot, in both athletes and non athletes. It has become more prevalent, in recent years, due to a number of reasons. Many people, who do sports for exercise, also tend to get the problem.It may have many causes and can occur anywhere on the foot, including the sole, toe webs, and back of the foot.Athlete’s foot is a commonly used popular term that can refer to any skin inflammation of the foot in an athlete. While this is commonly caused by fungal infections, the condition can be caused by other agents.Information available indicates that dermatitis affecting the foot can be caused by contact allergens, irritants, sweat and heat rash (intertrigo), poorly fitting shoes, psoariasis, hypersensitivity reactions, interdigital bacterial toe web infections and fungal infections.Fungi that may be yeasts or molds are one of common causes of athlete’s foot. Many people experience this condition at some stage of their lives. Symptoms of the athlete’s foot include dry skin, itching, burning, and redness of the feet. The symptoms are often apparent in the skin between the toes, where the infection usually starts. In most cases blistering, peeling, cracking of the skin, and bleeding of the affected foot may occur. Sometimes the affected skin can appear white and wet on the surface.The fungus that causes athlete’s foot can be found on floors and clothing, and the organisms require a warm, dark, and humid environment in order to grow. The infection spreads by direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. As the infection spreads, it may affect the soles of the feet and the toe nails. The affected skin is also more vulnerable to bacteria that cause skin infection known as cellulitis. This is particularly common in people with diabetes, the elderly and people with impaired function of the immune system.  Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot are normally treated with antibiotics. Both over the counter and antibiotic creams are usually available to treat athlete’s foot infection. For persistent infections, the health expert may prescribe oral antibiotics. It is important to continue treatment for the recommended time period even if the skin appears to have healed, since incomplete treatment frequently results in re-infection.There are many ways to prevent the athlete’s foot. Normally should often wash the feet with soap and water, be sure to dry them well after washing especially the area between the toes.A person should not wear other people’s shoes or slippers. Sandals and water shoes can provide protection when using public pools and spas. Always choose shoes that allow air circulation 1such as leather or canvas rather than vinyl or other materials that do not allow the feet to have aeration. It is important to change shoes so often; antifungal foot powders can be applied to the feet or put in the shoes to absorb moisture. Normally people should avoid walking barefoot especially in damp places.Once in public showers and locker rooms, it is always advisable to wear rubber sandals and water shoes. People should always keep their socks dry, and change them if they become wet. Wearing cotton socks that wick moisture away from the feet is also helpful. Antifungal foot powders can be applied to the feet or put in the shoes to absorb moisture. There are common medications normally prescribed for people with an athlete’s foot. In most cases the antifungal creams are sufficient for treating most cases of athlete’s foot. Normally they should be applied as directed to the toes and foot. Common brands include clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and tolnaftate (Tinactin).If the topical antifungal medications do not clear up the infection, the doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication. Application of one percent hydrocortisone cream offers a good therapeutic response.