Even a simple fungal infection like athlete's foot can become "super-infected" with bacteria. If this occurs, you may notice that the rash becomes increasingly painful and red. Swelling of your foot, the development of blisters, and open sores in the infected area can also occur. These are signs that you may require oral antibiotics, and you should contact your doctor.
While it's unlikely that athlete's foot would necessitate a visit to a hospital's emergency department, individuals with conditions like diabetes or other illnesses that weaken the body's ability to fight infections should be cautious. For them, athlete's foot can potentially become an emergency.
If you experience severe pain, redness, swelling, notice pus-like drainage, large blisters, ulcers on your foot, or develop a fever, you should seek prompt medical attention from your doctor, who may direct you to an emergency department.
Taking simple precautions can be quite effective in preventing athlete's foot.