What is a significant symptom of athlete's foot?

A significant symptom of athlete's foot is characterized by itching and peeling of the skin. This condition is a fungal infection that typically affects the spaces between the toes, as well as the soles of the feet. The presence of itching is a common response to the irritation caused by the fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes or locker rooms. Peeling occurs because the infection leads to the breakdown of skin cells, which can result in discomfort.

The specific combination of itching and peeling not only helps in identifying the condition but also indicates its progression. As the infection worsens, these symptoms can worsen, leading to more severe skin damage and potential complications. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely treatment and management, thus preventing the spread of the infection or secondary infections from occurring.

Other symptoms that may occur, such as blistering skin, red patches, or skin discoloration, can happen but are not as consistently associated with athlete's foot. Instead, they may indicate different skin conditions or stages of the athlete's foot but aren’t the hallmark symptoms that help in the initial identification of the condition.