Scratching athlete's foot is generally not recommended and can lead to further irritation and problems. Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that causes red, itchy skin on the feet and toes. It is usually very uncomfortable and can cause an intense urge to scratch. Though scratching may help to relieve the itch temporarily, it can also cause further irritation and damage to the skin, as well as spread the infection to other parts of the body.
Scratching athlete's foot can lead to broken skin, which can allow bacteria to enter and cause further infection. Additionally, the fungus that causes athlete's foot can spread to the fingernails and other parts of the body if the infected area is scratched.
It is important to avoid scratching athlete's foot as much as possible. Instead, it is recommended to use a topical antifungal cream to help relieve the itch and treat the infection. Additionally, keeping the feet clean and dry can help to prevent the infection from spreading or worsening.