Introduction:
Fungal infection is also known as mycosis, which is caused by microorganism fungi. Fungi are everywhere in the air, water, and human body. Some of the fungi are harmful and can cause rashes or itch. Fungal infections spread fast and can spread from skin-to-skin contact with infected clothes, sharing combs and bedsheets, and poor hygiene.
What Is a Fungal Skin Infection?
These organisms can penetrate the skin through a cut or lesion, as fungi are everywhere. They are found in warm and moist environments and areas that are more sweaty and do not get much airflow, such as feet, groin, and skin folds. The fungal infections often appear as a scaly rash or discoloration of the skin, which is usually itchy. Fungal infections of the skin are widespread and are not very serious, and can be controlled easily if the patient takes proper treatment at the beginning with adequate hygiene.
Who Are at Risk of Developing Fungal Infections?
Anyone can get a fungal infection. Superficial infections of the skin and nails are considered the most common type of fungal infection. A person might have a higher chance of getting a fungal infection if the individual has one or more of the following mentioned below.
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A weak immune system.
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Taking high-dose antibiotics for a longer duration.
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Systemic conditions, such as diabetes.
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Sweating profusely.
What Are the Types of Fungal Skin Infections?
The fungal infections are termed tinea. The different names of fungal skin infections are mentioned below as per the location.
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Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch) - This fungal infection of the genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks. It affects more men than women.
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Tinea Corporis (Ringworm of The Body) - It is a superficial fungal infection that does not fit into any other category, and the rash often appears as a ring shape.
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Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot) - The most common fungal infection occurs when a person walks barefoot in public restrooms or locker rooms. The area infected is the skin between the toes which turns white and starts to peel off. In some cases, the bottom of the feet can also get infected.
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Tinea Capitis (Ringworm of The Scalp) - This infection is commonly seen in children and areas such as the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.
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Tinea Unguium (Onychomycosis) - This is a common infection of toenails that causes the change of color of nails to yellow and makes them thick and can break easily.
What Are the Causes of Fungal Skin Infections?
Fungus is the cause of all varieties of infections, as mentioned earlier. A tiny fungus is known as a dermatophyte. They live on superficial skin, and when the situation is favorable, they cause rashes. The rashes often pass from one person to another or from animal to person by direct contact. Sometimes it can also happen because of the following reasons.
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Wearing tight clothes with improper aeration.
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Too much sweat can make the body part humid and moist, which is ideal for fungal growth.
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Living in a crowded area results in increased humidity.
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Contact sports like wrestling, rugby, and soccer.
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Low immunity.
What Does a Fungal Rash Look Like?
A fungal skin infection looks like a bright red patch that can spread across a large area. It can also have some of the following characteristics, such as;
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The color can be more intense at the border.
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More defined lesions or pustules at the edge of the rash.
What Are the Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections?
The symptoms of fungal skin infections are:
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Tinea Unguium (Onychomycosis) - In this, nails become yellowish, thick, brittle, and sometimes red with swelling and pain, and they can break easily.
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Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot) - It has a scaly rash with burning, stinging, and itching. The skin appears red, scaly, dry, flaky, cracked, or blistered. It is contagious. It can spread by contaminated floors, towels, bedsheets, and clothes. The infection can sometimes spread to other body areas, such as nails, groin, or hands (tinea manuum).
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Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch) - The primary symptom of a jock itch is an itchy red rash that usually starts in the groin area. The rash can worsen after exercising or other physical activity and spread to the buttocks and abdomen.
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Tinea Capitis - In this infection, the hair becomes brittle with a painful scalp, low-grade fever, and crusty swelling, which can lead to pus formation in severe cases. It is more common in young children and can be treated with an antifungal shampoo.
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Tinea Corporis or Ringworm - The most common sign is raised red rash on any body part. Margins are elevated, and the central part is mostly clear. It usually occurs on the arms and legs but can occur on any body part. Sometimes the rash can be dry and scaly.
How Are Fungal Skin Infections Diagnosed?
A fungal rash can be easily diagnosed by just looking at it. A healthcare provider might take the scrapings of the skin and observe them under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a fungal culture test can identify a specific fungus to help determine the best treatment. In severe infection, a blood test may also be required.
What Is the Treatment for Fungal Infections?
Fungal infections can be efficiently managed by taking antifungal medications. These medicines can kill the disease-causing organism (fungi) or prevent them from growing and thriving. Antifungal drugs are readily available in the market and come in various forms, such as:
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Creams or ointments.
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Pills.
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Powders or lotions.
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Sprays or gels.
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Shampoos.
Oral medications, along with topical medicines, work best in case of severe infections.
How Can Fungal Skin Infections Be Prevented?
Fungal skin infections can be prevented by following the below-mentioned tips:
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Wear loose clothes with proper aeration.
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Wash hands after handling animals, soil, and plants.
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Keep good hygiene while playing sports.
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The fungus prefers a warm, moist environment, so keep the skin dry.
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Take a bath properly and dry the body entirely with a neat and clean towel.
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Avoid contact with the person infected with the fungal infection.
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Do not share bed linen, hairbrush, underwear, or combs with an affected person.
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Wash the clothes of the affected person separately.
Conclusion:
Fungal skin infections are common and can be uncomfortable but are easily treated. These are not severe conditions, but a person should consult a healthcare provider whenever they experience any symptoms. Without proper treatment, they may spread and become severely irritated.
