the majority of athlete’s foot cases are caused by a variety of fungi all belonging to a group called dermatophytes which also cause jock itch. the fungi thrive in closed warm moist environments and feed on keratin a protein found in hair nails and skin. rarely athlete’s foot can be caused by non-dermatophytes like yeast (candida). athlete's foot is mildly contagious. it can be spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels shoes floors of shower stalls and around swimming pools and even pedicure shops. walking barefoot in the shower at the gym or around the pool may increase your chance of contracting athlete's foot. the risk of developing athlete's foot can also depend on your susceptibility. for example people who have diabetes are at greater risk.
what causes athlete's foot?