Athlete's Foot (cont.)
Medical Author:
D Troy Levitt, MD
Coauthor:
James Levitt, DPM
Medical Editor:
Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Anthony Anker, MD, FAAEM
IN THIS ARTICLE
When to Seek Medical CareA simple fungal infection such as athlete's foot can become "super-infected" with bacteria. If this should happen, the rash will become increasingly painful and red. Your foot may become swollen, and you may develop blisters and even open sores in the infected area. These are indications that you may need oral antibiotics and will need to call your doctor. It is unlikely that athlete's foot would ever become severe enough that a trip to a hospital's emergency department is required. However, if you have diabetes or any other type of illness that will make it hard for your body to fight off an infection, athlete's foot may become an emergency. If you develop severe pain, redness, or swelling, notice a puslike drainage, see large blisters or ulcers on your foot, or if you develop a fever, you should be seen as soon as possible by your doctor, who may direct you to an emergency department. Viewer Comments & ReviewsAthlete's Foot - SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:How long did the symptoms of your athlete's foot last? Was there anything that helped with symptom relief? Athlete's Foot - TreatmentThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What treatment has been effective for your Athlete's Foot? |
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