If you are unsure if you have athlete's foot or dry skin, there are a few different ways to determine the correct diagnosis.
The first step is to take a look at the affected area of the skin. With athlete’s foot, there will typically be scaly, flaky, or cracked skin that is red and sometimes itchy. It can also be painful and may even have a foul odor. The area may also be blistered or scabbed. With dry skin, the skin may appear scaly, rough, and red but it will not usually be painful or itchy and will not typically have a foul odor.
The next step is to consider where the affected skin is located. Athlete’s foot often occurs on the feet and between the toes. It can also occur on other areas of the body, such as the hands, but this is more rare. Dry skin, on the other hand, can occur anywhere on the body but is often seen on the hands, arms, legs, and face.
It is also important to consider any other symptoms you may be experiencing. Athlete’s foot may cause burning, stinging, and itching sensations, as well as a feeling of tenderness or pain in the affected area. Dry skin may cause a sensation of tightness, but it will not usually cause any pain or itching.
If you are still unsure if you have athlete’s foot or dry skin, it is best to consult with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. They can examine the affected area and may also want to take a sample of the skin to be tested. Your doctor can also provide treatment options to help alleviate the symptoms of either condition.