They can spread through direct contact with infected people or animals, as well as shared towels, clothing, shoes, gym floors, and public showers. Symptoms may include itching, scaling, circular rashes, cracking skin, or thick and discolored nails.
Many mild infections improve with over-the-counter antifungal creams such as clotrimazole or terbinafine when used as directed. Scalp infections, widespread rashes, or nail fungus often need medical assessment and sometimes prescription oral treatment.
Keeping skin clean and dry, avoiding shared personal items, and wearing footwear in public changing areas can help prevent infection. Avoid irritating home treatments on broken or sensitive skin, and see a clinician if symptoms spread, worsen, or do not improve.
