Fungal Infections Treatments in Katraj | Dr. Sandhya Hippargekar

What is a Fungal Infection?

Common Causes of Fungal Infections

• Warm and Humid Conditions: Fungi thrive in sweaty and damp areas, making people more susceptible to infections during hot and humid weather.
• Poor Hygiene: Lack of proper personal hygiene, such as not drying the skin properly after bathing, can create a breeding ground for fungal growth.
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immunity due to conditions like diabetes, HIV, or prolonged use of antibiotics or steroids are more prone to fungal infections.
• Direct Contact: Fungal infections are contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, sharing personal items (like towels, socks, or shoes), or coming into contact with contaminated surfaces.
• Excessive Sweating: Athletes and people with excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) are at a higher risk of developing fungal infections, especially in the feet and groin area.

Types of Common Fungal Infections

• Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection that causes red, circular, scaly patches on the skin.
• It can affect different areas, including the scalp (tinea capitis), body (tinea corporis), groin (tinea cruris or jock itch), and feet (tinea pedis or athlete’s foot).

• This fungal infection affects the feet, causing itching, redness, peeling, and blisters, particularly between the toes.
• It commonly occurs in people who wear tight shoes or walk barefoot in public showers and swimming pools.

• Affects the toenails or fingernails, making them thick, brittle, discolored, and prone to breakage.
• It can spread from untreated athlete’s foot or due to prolonged exposure to damp environments.

• Affects the groin area, inner thighs, and buttocks, leading to red, itchy, and flaky rashes.
• It is more common in men and athletes due to excessive sweating and friction in the affected area.

• Caused by Candida, a type of yeast that naturally exists in the body but can overgrow under certain conditions.
• It affects the skin folds, mouth (oral thrush), genitals (vaginal yeast infection), and nails.

Symptoms of Fungal Infections

• Redness and inflammation
• Itching and irritation
• Scaly, dry, or peeling skin
• Blisters or pustules in severe cases
• Thickened, discolored, and brittle nails (for nail infections)
• White patches inside the mouth (for oral thrush)
• Treatment Options for Fungal Infections

• Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription antifungal creams, lotions, powders, or sprays can effectively treat mild infections.
• Common active ingredients include clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, and ketoconazole.

• For stubborn or severe infections, dermatologists may prescribe oral antifungal drugs like fluconazole, itraconazole, or terbinafine.
• These medications work from within to eliminate fungal growth.

• Special antifungal shampoos containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide can help treat scalp ringworm (tinea capitis).

• Maintain Proper Hygiene: Keep skin dry and clean, especially in moisture-prone areas like feet, groin, and underarms.
• Wear Breathable Fabrics: Opt for cotton clothes and moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweating.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, shoes, socks, or razors with others.
• Use Antifungal Powders: Applying antifungal powder can help absorb moisture and prevent recurrence.

Preventing Fungal Infections

•  Keep your skin dry, especially in skin folds.
•  Change damp clothes and socks promptly.
•  Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like swimming pools and gyms.
•  Trim your nails regularly and avoid using shared nail clippers.
•  Strengthen your immune system with a healthy diet and adequate hydration.

When to See a Dermatologist?

• The infection persists despite home treatment.
• It spreads to multiple areas of the body.
• You experience severe itching, pain, or secondary bacterial infections.
• You have a weakened immune system and are more prone to infections.