Skin Fungal Infection: Risk Factors and Remedies

Skin fungal infection is caused by a type of fungus called Dermatophyte. Fungal skin infections are of several types namely ringworm, athlete’s foot, and Cutaneous Candidiasis. Severe fungal infections when left untreated can also spread to the blood or the internal organs by attacking the skin layers.

Risk Factors for Fungal Infections

The risk factors for skin fungal infections are many. Use of antibiotics can treat several infections they by reducing the helpful bacterial thriving inside the body. This in turn can further induce fungal growth. Though corticosteroids are prescribed to lessen inflammation of skin and other types of disorders, these can also impact our immune response by inducing favorable conditions for fungal growth. People suffering from conditions such as leukemia or diabetes can also be prone to this problem. Aids and chemotherapy can also impact the immune system and encourage the growth of fungi. Moist areas of the body such as mouth and vagina are mainly affected by fungi growth. Also shoes and sweaty feet can promote the growth of fungal infections. Also heredity plays a role in developing this problem.

Symptoms

You can develop a rash before developing fungal skin infections. The symptom of a ringworm infection is a ring-shaped, itchy patch with a conspicuous center. In the case of Athlete’s foot patients develop a rash between the toes. Other symptoms of this condition are cracking and irritation of skin. Susceptibility to bacterial infection and skin soreness may also occur. Scalp ringworm impacts scalp and nail infection affects nails and both can be contagious in children.

Fungal culture method and potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation are the two methods used to determine the existence of this condition among patients.

Treatment

Use of antibiotics, a depressed immune system or use of corticosteroids can lead to fungal infections. The problem will be automatically resolved by treating the weak immune system. Medications and fungal creams may also be effective. Keeping the affected area dry and use of a hydrocortisone cream can relieve you from itching.