The treatment of athlete’s foot will depend on the severity of your case. If you have a minor case of athlete’s foot, you can typically treat it at home with over-the-counter antifungal medication. If you have a more serious outbreak of athlete’s foot, your doctor may prescribe a prescription in the form of an antifungal cream or an oral medication. The best way to beat athlete’s foot is to not get it in the first place. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that is easily transmitted from damp, contaminated surfaces, so it is important to: Avoid direct contact with possible contaminated areas (like community showers in a gym). Change sweaty socks. Thoroughly dry your feet.