Introduction
A simple fungal infection, like athlete's foot, can become "super-infected" with bacteria.
If this happens, the rash will become more severe and red. In the infected area, your foot may swell, and you may develop blisters and even open sores.
These are signs that you may require oral antibiotics and should contact your doctor.
It is unlikely that athlete's foot would ever become severe enough that a trip to a hospital's emergency department is required.
However, if you have diabetes or any other type of illness that will make it hard for your body to fight off an infection, athlete's foot may become an emergency.
If you develop severe pain, redness, or swelling,
notice a puslike drainage, see large blisters or ulcers on your foot, or if
you develop a fever, you should be seen as soon as possible by your doctor, who may direct you to an emergency department.