There are three main types of athlete's foot. Each type affects different parts of the foot, looks different, and may be treated differently. While some people who have athlete's foot do not notice it, others develop severe symptoms.

Athlete's foot is easily spread (contagious)-you can get it by touching the affected area of a person who has it. More commonly, you pick up the fungi by going barefoot in shared areas, such as swimming pools or locker rooms. The fungi then grow in the warm and moist environment of your footwear, especially if it is tight so that little air can move around your feet.

Some people are more likely to develop athlete's foot (susceptible) than others. Experts don't know why this is. Once you have had athlete's foot, you are more likely to get it again.

If you come in contact with the fungi that cause athlete's foot, you can spread the fungi to others, whether you develop the infection or not.

Toe web infection (interdigital) usually occurs between the fourth and fifth toes. The skin becomes scaly, peels, and cracks. If the infection becomes severe, bacteria are usually present, which cause further skin breakdown (maceration).

Moccasin-type infection may begin with minor irritation and then progresses to thickened, cracked skin on the sole or heel. In severe cases, the toenails become infected and can thicken, crumble, and even fall out.

Vesicular infection (blisters) usually begins with a sudden outbreak of large fluid-filled areas under the skin. The blisters most often develop on the skin of the instep but may also develop between the toes, on the heel, or on the sole or top of the foot. This type may also be accompanied by a bacterial infection.