FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Overview

Skin infections can be caused due to microbial action. A prominent example for microbe is the fungus. These micro-organisms are found almost in every place and may affect various persons based on their individual body constitutions. There are several forms of fungal infections. Some of the common forms of fungal infections are ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, yeast infections etc.

• Ringworm: Also known as dermatophytosis, this is an infection affecting the keratinized tissues like nails, skin and hair. The main fungi responsible for this condition are trichophyton, microsporum, epidermophyton etc.
• Athlete's foot: This is the ringworm affecting the foot. It commonly affects the foot sole and portions in between toes.
• Jock itch: The condition is also known as tineacruris. It mostly occurs in upper thighs & groins. It can be cured by using suitable medications.
• Yeast infections: yeast like fungi like candida causes various infections in the skin. Although they are not contagious, it can cause moderate to severe irritation in the affected persons.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms of fungal infections vary with the type of infections. The symptoms of individual fungal infections are as follows:

• Itchy sensation of the feet.
• Yellowish nature of toenails that almost detach from nail beds.
• Flaky and scaly appearance of feet.

• Scaly and red rashes in areas like scalp.
• Itchy sensation in the regions like groins.

• Hair-fall in the concerned area.
• Itchy areas in the scalp, mostly ring-shaped.

Although these are the symptoms of the most common fungal infections, they can vary depending upon the area affected.

Causes

Fungal infections are caused by different fungi. Infections like jock itch, ringworm, athlete's foot etc are caused due to tinea, a special type of fungus. Yeast infections like oral & vaginal thrush etc are caused due to Candida albicans.

Risk factors

Certain aspects can increase the chances of affecting fungal infections. Some of the main reasons are described below:

• High blood sugar levels.
• Excessive sweating
• Intake of antibiotics.
• Environmental conditions like excessive humidity.
• Inadequate cleansing

Treatments

• Oral and application antifungal medications.
• Maintaining proper hygiene.
• Diagnosing and treating the underlying metabolic diseases like diabetes.
• Remedies like application of antiseptic mouth washes for oral thrush.
• Intake of yogurt and supplements that can helps to maintain the balance of micro-organisms in the digestive tract and mouth.

Prevention

Maintenance of skin hygiene is a critical factor in the prevention of fungal infections. Avoid excessive sweating. Take bath twice a day. Keep your body dry and clean.Take special care of the folds specially in hot and humid weather.