What is athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot (the medical term is tinea pedis) is not something that only athletes can get. It is, in fact, a very common fungal infection which generally occurs between your toes and is extremely contagious. You can get athlete's foot just by using a communal changing room or even sharing a towel. If left untreated the condition can spread to the soles and sides of the foot and to the toenails. Athlete's foot may be further complicated by a bacterial infection, accompanied by an unpleasant smell.