Summer is the season for sandals, swimming pools, vacations, and outdoor activities. However, it’s also one of the busiest times of year for athlete’s foot. If you’ve noticed itchy, peeling skin between your toes after a day at the pool or gym, you’re not alone. Warm temperatures, sweaty feet, and shared public spaces create the perfect environment for fungal infections to thrive.

At Syracuse Podiatry, our experienced team helps patients identify, treat, and prevent athlete’s foot so they can enjoy the summer without uncomfortable foot problems.

Why Does Athlete’s Foot Increase During Summer?

Warm weather and sweaty feet create ideal conditions for athlete’s foot. The fungus can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces in places like pools, locker rooms, and public showers.

Common Signs of Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms often begin between the toes but can spread to other parts of the foot if left untreated. Watch for:

• Itching or burning between the toes
• Red, scaly, or peeling skin
• Dry, cracked skin
• Blisters
• An unpleasant odor
• Thickened or discolored toenails if the infection spreads

Since athlete’s foot can resemble other skin conditions, it’s important to receive an accurate diagnosis if symptoms persist.

How to Help Prevent Athlete’s Foot

A few simple habits can greatly reduce your risk of developing a fungal infection this summer:

• Wear sandals or flip-flops in public showers and pool areas.
• Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes.
• Change socks if they become damp from sweat.
• Wear breathable shoes whenever possible.
• Avoid sharing towels, socks, or footwear.

These preventive steps can help reduce moisture and limit exposure to the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.

When to See a Podiatrist

If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, your symptoms continue to worsen, or the infection spreads to your toenails, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Delaying treatment can allow the infection to become more difficult to eliminate.

At Syracuse Podiatry, we provide personalized treatment for athlete’s foot and other common foot conditions. Whether you’re dealing with a persistent fungal infection or want to keep your feet healthy this summer, our team can help you get back to enjoying the season with confidence. Contact us today so Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and Dr. Colin Kalabanka can elevate your foot health and help your feet feel their best.