A fungus, such as mold and mildew, is a microscopic organism. Fungi can be found in the air, water, and on people’s bodies. Approximately 50% of all fungus are dangerous. A fungal infection might occur if one of the hazardous fungus settles on your skin. It’s possible that you’ll get a rash or become itchy.
Mycosis is the name for a fungal infection.There are millions of different species of fungi. They can be found in the filthy areas, on plants, on surfaces all around the house, and on your skin.
Causes of fungal infection
There are numerous causes which can trigger and sustain the growth and infection of fungus inside human body.
- Common causes include occlusion in certain areas (tight garments), fungal infection of the feet in athletes or people who regularly run (due to excessive sweating and humid conditions produced in the foot wear).
- Excessive oil application may predispose one to developing fungal infections especially tinea versicolor.
- Certain conditions such as diabetes and immunosuppressive conditions may predispose one to develop fungal infections.
- Infections in household contacts.
- Prolonged antibiotic usage may predispose an individual to develop candidal infections.
The above mentioned causes are amongst some of the common causes and there are definitely various other triggers that can lead to fungal infections.
Types of Fungal Infections:
a) Yeast Infections
Cutaneous candidiasis is the name given to the yeast infection of the skin. When candida, a form of fungus, grows too much, it causes various ailments. However, yeast infections are non-spreadable.
Warm, moist, wrinkled parts of your body, such as your armpits and genital, are the most prevalent sites for infections. Obese or diabetic people are more likely to experience them. Antibiotic users are also at a higher risk of getting fungal infections.
In newborns, Candida can cause diaper rash. It can even make your nails, vaginal area, or mouth infected.
Symptoms of a yeast infection
The following are symptoms of a yeast infection on the skin:
- Rash
- Patches of clear liquid oozing
- lumps that look like pimples
- Itching\Burning
The following are symptoms of a yeast infection in your nail beds:
- Swelling\Pain\Pus
- A nail that is white or yellow in colour and separates from the nail bed.
The following are symptoms of thrush (a mouth yeast infection):
- The formation of white patches on your tongue and inside your cheeks.
- Pain
The following are symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection:
- Your vaginal discharge may be white or yellow.
- Itching, redness, and burning in the exterior portion of your vagina
b) Ringworm
Ringworm, commonly known as tinea corporis, is a fungal skin ailment, not a worm. It gets its name from a ring-shaped rash with a worm-like border.
One should be very cautious if someone gets this infection becuase direct contact with the infected individuals or animals can transmit a ringworm very easily. It’s also possible to get it via clothing or other day to day objects. Heat and humidity can aid in the transmission of the disease.
Symptoms of ringworm
- Ringworm causes a red, round, flat sore on the skin that might be followed by scaly skin.
- The skin on the outside of the sore may be elevated, while the skin on the inside appears normal. It’s possible that patches or red rings will overlap.
Treatment for ringworm
- Antifungal drugs applied to the skin are the most common form of treatment.
c) Itch of a Jock:
- Jock itch is caused by a fungus called tinea. Tinea cruris is another name for the infection.
- Tinea like regions that are warm and moist, such as your genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks.
- Infections are more likely to occur during the summer or in warm, humid environments.
- Jock itch is a rash that is usually ring-shaped and is red and itchy.
- It can be spread directly from person to person or indirectly through objects that have the fungus on them. However, it is not highly contagious
The signs and symptoms of jock itch:
- On your groin or thighs, it can cause itching, chafing, or burning.
- A red rash, which is round, and has thickened edges.
- Groin or thigh redness.
- Skin flaking, peeling, or breaking
Treatment for jock itch
- Maintain a clean and dry environment around the affected region.
- The majority of cases can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications. Not to forget, these medications should be taken after consulting skin specialist.
d) Athlete’s Foot
- Tinea pedis, popularly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection of the foot.
- Warm, damp environments, such as shoes, socks, swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers, are ideal for the fungi to thrive.
- In the summer and in hot, humid settings, they’re common.
- People who wear tight shoes, don’t change their sweaty socks, and use public baths and pools are more likely to develop this infection.
- Athlete’s foot is caused by fungus that feed on the dead tissue in your hair, toenails, and outer skin layers.
- Athlete’s foot symptoms differ from person to person.
The most common symptoms are:
- Feet that are scaly, peeling, and cracking
- Blisters
- Reddened, softened, or broken-down skin
- Itching
- Burning
Treatment for athlete’s foot
- Your doctor may prescribe antifungal medication. In severe cases oral medicines might also be given. One must keep their feet clean and dry to avoid this infection.
The skin specialists at Radha Swami Clinic treat fungal diseases in a precise and effective manner. Topical antifungal creams, as well as several other approaches, may be used in the treatment of fungal infections depending upon the severity.
Fungal infections are totally treatable, but you should see a dermatologist as soon as possible in order to receive a more effective treatment and to prevent the illness from spreading.