Athlete’s foot and eczema may cause similar symptoms on the feet, such as dry, scaly, cracking, inflamed, and peeling skin. But they’re two different conditions that require different treatments.
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that
Eczema refers to a group of chronic inflammatory conditions that can cause dry, itchy, and inflamed skin patches.
Although eczema and athlete’s foot can share similar symptoms, they are two distinct conditions.
This article distinguishes between athlete’s foot and eczema and provides you with tips to prevent and manage each condition.
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal skin infection that can occur on your feet. It affects up to
The infection usually affects the areas between your toes, but it could also spread to the sole, heel, and under the toenails.
It’s also contagious, so it can be
That’s why this infection commonly occurs on feet. For example, people commonly contract the infection through standing in communal showers.
Eczema, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is associated with an
It’s usually diagnosed in children ages 2 months to 5 years and goes away by adolescence, although it’s possible to experience eczema at any age.
Eczema likely results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Unlike athlete’s foot, eczema is not contagious.
Athlete’s foot and foot eczema may appear similarly, but there are some key differences.
For instance, athlete’s foot most commonly affects the area between and under the toes, while eczema affects the
Athlete’s foot and eczema have many similarities. For instance, both skin conditions can cause:
- erythema (redness or other discoloration)
- dryness
- itchiness
- cracking
- thickening
- inflammation
- white, flaky scales
However, it’s important to note that athlete’s foot usually only affects the feet, especially the area between the toes.
Eczema symptoms usually appear on the arms, legs, chest, back, scalp, and folds of the skin. Symptoms that affect your feet will
Eczema that affects the feet is usually associated with dyshidrotic eczema, which may also cause eczema on your hands.
Can complications look the same?
Some complications from athlete’s foot and eczema may also look similar.
A
Similarly, eczema that is infected
Athlete’s foot and eczema are often diagnosed by a physical examination. However, some healthcare professionals may also conduct a skin sample test to rule out other conditions.
For athlete’s foot, this involves scraping a small amount of skin and examining it to identify fungal spores.
For eczema, they may perform a skin patch test to look for common triggers, such as allergies and irritants. In rare cases, they may perform a skin biopsy.
Some medical treatments are available to help treat athlete’s foot and eczema on the feet.
If you have athlete’s foot, a healthcare professional
For eczema, there’s currently no cure.
However, the
- topical steroid or immunomodulator medications
- light therapy (phototherapy)
- injectable biologic medications
- oral antihistamines
Avoiding eczema triggers and regularly moisturizing your skin with fragrance-free products are also key aspects of managing the condition.
If you have athlete’s foot or eczema, it’s important to wash your feet regularly with mild soap and warm water.
Additionally, you can help
- drying your feet with a clean towel after taking a shower or bath or swimming
- wearing flip-flops or slippers around public swimming pools, changing rooms, and showers
- avoiding very tight-fitting shoes
- taking your shoes off as often as possible
- alternating your shoes every day
- wearing natural fabrics or fabrics that dry quickly
- washing your socks, bedding, and towels regularly at 140°F (60?C) or more
If you’re living with eczema, the following natural remedies and strategies may help minimize flare-ups:
- identifying and avoiding allergens and triggers
- moisturizing your skin daily, especially after bathing
- wearing cotton clothing and avoiding tight-fitting clothes
- drinking plenty of water
- managing stress
- using a humidifier if you live in a dry place
- washing your laundry with unscented detergent
- avoiding hot baths and showers
- avoiding sudden changes in temperature
Yes, eczema can be mistaken for athlete’s foot since the symptoms can be similar.
If you suspect you have either condition, make careful note of your symptoms, lifestyle, and environment to discuss with a healthcare professional such as a podiatrist or dermatologist.
No, eczema cream will not be effective in treating the fungal infection that causes athlete’s foot. You will likely need an OTC or prescription antifungal medication to treat athlete’s foot.
A fungal infection on the feet usually affects the areas between the toes and causes itching, cracking, well-defined discoloration, and silvery scales. It could also affect the toenails.
Eczema usually affects the soles of the feet or the ankles and the tops.
No. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition, while athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin.
Although athlete’s foot and eczema can both affect the skin of the feet, they are two different conditions.
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that can be transmitted through direct skin contact or contact with skin flakes, often in public pools and changing rooms.
Eczema is not contagious and is the result of genetic and environmental factors.
Both conditions can cause skin discoloration, cracks, lightening, and thickening, as well as itchiness and blisters that may weep.
Regardless of your condition, it’s important to practice proper hygiene. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, wear natural or quick-drying fabrics, and do laundry regularly. Consider wearing flip-flops in public spaces such as changing rooms.