Red flags & when to go in person for Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Athlete’s Foot, also called Tinea Pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It often causes itching, redness, and peeling, especially between the toes. In children, it can be uncomfortable but usually can be managed at home with good foot hygiene and antifungal treatments. However, some signs mean it’s important to see a healthcare provider in person. These include severe pain, spreading redness, swelling, or signs of infection like pus or fever. Telemedicine can help guide families on care and when to seek in-person evaluation. This guide explains when telemedicine is helpful and when urgent in-person care is needed for children with Athlete’s Foot.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around the foot — see a healthcare provider in person promptly.
• Pus, oozing, or crusting on the skin — possible bacterial infection requiring in-person evaluation.
• Fever or severe pain making it hard for the child to walk — urgent in-person care needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild symptoms and guidance on home care.
• Advice on antifungal treatments and foot hygiene.
• Follow-up questions about symptom changes or treatment effects.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe symptoms such as spreading redness or swelling.
• Signs of bacterial infection like pus or fever.
• Severe pain or difficulty walking requiring physical examination.

What is Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)?

Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It is common in children and can cause itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blisters. The fungus thrives in warm, moist places like sweaty socks and shoes. It can spread by touching contaminated surfaces or sharing towels and footwear.

Common Symptoms in Children

Children with Athlete’s Foot often have itchy, red, or scaly skin on their feet. The skin between the toes may peel or crack. Sometimes blisters or sores can form. These symptoms can cause discomfort, especially during walking or playing.

When to Use Telemedicine for Athlete’s Foot

Telemedicine can help families get advice on managing mild Athlete’s Foot at home. A healthcare provider can suggest antifungal creams, proper foot care, and ways to prevent spread. Telemedicine is useful for follow-up questions or if symptoms are mild and stable.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Some signs mean your child needs to see a healthcare provider in person right away:

These signs may mean the infection is spreading or there is a more serious problem.

Preventing Athlete’s Foot in Children

To reduce the chance of Athlete’s Foot:

Treating Athlete’s Foot at Home

Mild Athlete’s Foot often improves with:

If symptoms worsen or do not improve, seek medical advice.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a good light source and a quiet place for the tele-visit.
• Prepare to show clear images or live video of the affected foot area.
• List all symptoms your child is experiencing, including any changes.
• Note any treatments already tried and their effects.
• Have a list of your child’s allergies and current medications ready.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on antifungal treatments.
• Keep the child’s feet clean and dry as instructed.
• Monitor symptoms daily for improvement or worsening.
• Schedule an in-person visit if red flags develop or symptoms do not improve.
• Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes to prevent spread.

FAQs

Can Athlete’s Foot spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, the fungus that causes Athlete’s Foot can sometimes spread to other areas like the hands or groin if touched. It is important to wash hands after touching the infected area and avoid scratching.

How long does it take for Athlete’s Foot to heal in children?

With proper treatment, mild Athlete’s Foot often improves within 1 to 2 weeks. However, it may take longer to fully clear, and treatment should continue as advised to prevent recurrence.

Are antifungal creams safe for children?

Most over-the-counter antifungal creams are safe for children when used as directed. It is best to consult a healthcare provider before starting treatment, especially for young children.

Can Athlete’s Foot be prevented?

Yes, keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks daily, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places can help prevent Athlete’s Foot.

When should I seek emergency care for my child’s Athlete’s Foot?

Seek emergency care if your child has severe pain, spreading redness or swelling, pus or oozing wounds, or a fever. These signs may indicate a serious infection requiring urgent treatment.

Sources

1. Athlete's Foot — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Athlete's Foot: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot) Treatment — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance cannot replace an in-person examination when needed. If your child shows any red flags or worsening symptoms, seek prompt in-person medical attention.