Skin

Athlete’s foot: virtual care options

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, often between the toes. It thrives in warm, damp places like sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and pool decks.

See virtual care for Athlete’s foot

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

Itching, stinging, or burning between the toes or on the soles
Peeling, cracking, or scaly skin
Redness or discoloration
Small blisters on the feet
Dry skin on the soles that extends up the sides

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks about your symptoms and what you have tried
Sharing photos of your feet, including between the toes
A provider may recommend treatment, including prescribing it if appropriate
Tips for keeping feet dry and avoiding reinfection

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

You have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet
Skin is badly cracked, open, or bleeding
Your toenails are thick, discolored, or crumbling
The rash has not improved after a few weeks of treatment

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Redness and swelling spreading up the foot or leg
Red streaks, fever, or chills
A foot sore that is draining pus or turning dark, especially if you have diabetes

Ready to explore a virtual visit for Athlete’s foot?

Check availability, pricing, and care details directly with the provider. You’ll leave ER.com when you continue.

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Common questions

Athlete’s foot, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

Can you get athlete’s foot treated online?

Yes, athlete’s foot is commonly evaluated in virtual visits using photos of your feet. A provider may recommend or prescribe treatment if appropriate.

Is athlete’s foot contagious?

Yes. It can spread through shared floors, towels, and shoes, and to other parts of your own body like the groin. Wearing sandals in shared showers and drying feet well can help.

Why does athlete’s foot keep coming back?

The fungus can linger in shoes and socks, and stopping treatment too early can let it return. A provider can help you build a plan if it keeps recurring.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.