What is Fungal Infections?
A fungal infection, often known as mycosis, is a skin ailment caused by fungi. Fungal infections may afflict anyone and develop in various parts of the body. Such infections can be caused by a variety of fungi.
Fungi that aren't normally present on or inside the body can start colonising and cause illnesses in some situations. Fungi that are often present on or within the body can also proliferate out of control and cause an infection in certain cases. Fungal diseases can spread from person to person. In rare circumstances, the disease-causing fungus can be acquired via diseased animals or contaminated soil or surfaces.
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Types of Fungal Infections
Tinea is the medical term for fungal skin illness. Fungal infections are classified into several types:
Symptoms of Fungal Infections
The symptoms of a fungal infection vary based on the area of the infection. For example:
- Itching and foul discharge from the vagina are common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection
- Skin fungal infections can cause redness, itching, peeling, and swelling
- Coughing, fever, chest discomfort, and muscular pains are all symptoms of a fungal infection in the lungs
When to see a doctor?
Those who have a fungal infection and a low immune system or issues such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or are undergoing chemotherapy, or are on steroids, must seek immediate medical attention.
Get the best treatment for Fungal Infection from our Dermatologists at Medicover Hospitals.
Causes
When the skin comes in contact with a dangerous fungus, the infection might result in the appearance of a rash. For instance, if someone borrowed a pair of shoes from someone who had an athlete's foot, the fungus may contact the foot and infect them as well. Rashes are frequently transmitted from human to human or from animals to humans through direct touch.
Risk Factors
If treated promptly and effectively, fungal infections are typically not life-threatening. Those who are at a higher risk of contracting a fungal infection are listed below:
- People with weakened immune systems, such as children, elderly, and those suffering from AIDS, cancer, or diabetes
- People who are predisposed to fungal infections
- People who sweat a lot, since sweaty clothes and shoes might increase fungus development on the skin
- People who come in contact with a person who has a fungal illness
- People who frequently go to damp communal facilities, such as locker rooms and showers, since fungus require moisture to thrive and reproduce
- Obese people with excessive skin folds
Complications
Fungal infections can have catastrophic consequences for people with weaker immune systems, such as those with AIDS or those using steroids or undergoing chemotherapy. These fungal infections are Superficial. This will not spread to the brain and heart.
Prevention
Maintaining good hygiene is essential for avoiding any type of fungal infection. Following tips may help you stay away from any such infections:
- Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in the creases
- Wash your hands frequently (particularly after contacting animals or other people)
- Don't use other people's towels and personal care items
- Clean up gym equipment before and after use
Diagnosis
Fungal infections can be diagnosed by using Skin Scrapings, Nail Clippings and Vaginal swabs, these are done to investigate superficial fungal skin and nail infections.
Treatment
These are the treatment options for fungal infection.
- Athlete's Foot: It is treated with a topical antifungal ointment, and if the condition worsens, the doctor may prescribe further drugs.
- Yeast Infection: Yeast infection treatment differs according to the severity of the disease. Treatment options include lotions, pills, and suppositories.
- Jock Itch: The right treatment includes topical treatments and proper hygiene. Over-the-counter drugs are also available from doctors, and some may require a prescription.
- Ringworm: It can be treated with doctor-prescribed lotions, ointments, and drugs.
Lifestyle Changes and Self Care
- Shower frequently and properly
- Tight clothing, such as jeans, leggings, and jeggings, should be avoided. Wear comfortable cotton clothes.
- Don't share sheets, towels, or clothing.
- Dust, wet mop, or vacuum the house, and clean with soap and detergent to minimise fungal spore load in the immediate area.
- Remove any waistbands, wristbands, etc.
- If possible, use non-occlusive (open-loose) footwear such as sandals.
- Hair on the genitalia should be removed on a regular basis
- Maintain a clean scalp and do not share combs, hairbrushes, caps, or helmets.
- Surfaces that may be washed should be thoroughly cleaned with detergent soap and hot water.This should be done at least once a day for 4-6 weeks, or until the fungal infection is gone from all affected people.
Dos and Don'ts
Fungal infections can cause a lot of itching and sleepless nights. It can spread from person to person, but it can be prevented with proper knowledge and understanding. Though it can occur at any age or season, it is more frequent in summers and monsoon. It is commonly seen in skin folds with moisture, humidity, and sweating, such as below the breast, underarms, thighs, and other intimate parts. The secret to effective treatment is to start as soon as possible.Following these dos and don'ts can help in the management of this condition.
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Fungal Infection Care at Medicover Hospitals
At Medicover, we have the best team of Dermatologists and skin specialists who work together to provide Fungal Infection treatment with utmost precision. Our highly skilled team utilises the latest medical equipment, diagnostic procedures and technologies to treat various types of dermatological conditions and ailments. For Fungal infections, our doctors work closely with patients to monitor their condition and treatment progress for faster and sustained recovery.
