Health Tip: Kick Athlete's Foot

(HealthDay News) -- Athlete's foot fungus makes the feet itchy, red, cracked and flaky. Fortunately, treatment usually is effective, although the infection is prone to returning.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine suggests these treatment options for athlete's foot:

• Use an over-the-counter antifungal cream or powder.
• Look for antifungals that include the ingredients tolnaftate, clotrimazole or miconazole.
• Keep using the antifungal medication for a week or two after symptoms subside.
• Thoroughly wash and dry your feet and toes.
• Wear clean cotton socks, and change them often.
• Keep feet dry at all times.
• See your doctor if symptoms don't improve within about four weeks.