Did you know dandruff, diaper rash, and athlete’s foot are types of fungal infections? According to numerous studies published in the Journal “The Lancet”, fungal skin infections affect more than a billion people worldwide. In some cases they can result in life-threatening infections, however, they often remain the most neglected infection in the general population.
Fungal skin infections as the name suggests are caused by fungus. These mostly affect the damp areas of the body and skin folds such as between the toes, in the genital area, in the armpits, under the breasts, and in the groin area. These infections are mostly caused by yeast and dermatophytes (a type of fungi that causes superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails). Poor personal hygiene and living in a hot, humid and crowded environment increases your risk of contracting the infection.
Most of these infections aren’t life-threatening but they can be contagious depending on the type of fungal infection. However, if left ignored, in certain cases they can lead to severe complications. Treatment typically consists of topical therapy like use of antifungal gels, ointments, and sprays or oral medication. Apart from medications, maintaining personal hygiene like keeping your skin/feet dry, wearing well-fitting shoes, etc can help to avoid fungal infections.
Overview
Key Facts
Causes
Risk factors
Diagnosis
Prevention
Specialist to visit
Treatment
Home-care
Complications
Alternatives therapies
Living with
FAQs
References
Frequently Asked Questions
You can identify a fungal infection just by looking at it. A fungal skin infection appears to be bright red or scaly and can spread across a large area of your body. A fungal skin rash can also have symptoms such as itching, soreness, and color change that is more prominent at the edges.
There are several causes of fungal infections. However, the most common cause is moist or damp surfaces on the skin. Fungi usually grow well in moist areas of the body where skin surfaces meet. These could include areas between the toes, under the breasts, and in the groin region. Common fungal skin infections are caused by certain species of yeasts such as Candida or Malassezia furfur or dermatophytes, such as Microsporum, Epidermophyton, and Trichophyton.
Superficial fungal infections or infections that are present on your face may take anywhere from a few days to a few months to heal, whereas fungal infections that are present in deep tissues can take up to two years to treat. If a person has weakened immune systems, the treatment and management of fungal infection can take very long to clear up completely.
There are specific foods that could aggravate fungal infections. Some of these foods include added sugars such as cane sugar, processed fruit juices, refined starches such as white bread, pasta, and starchy vegetables like potatoes, beans, and carrots.
There are certain species of fungi such as Candida albicans which lead to fungal skin infections on the face. Some people are more likely to develop an infection on their face if they have low immunity or are suffering from diseases such as diabetes, an injury, or intertrigo. Yeast infections on the face may lead to burning, itching, and redness.
No. Most oral antifungal drugs should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor to advise you in this regard.
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Fungal skin infections are caused by a variety of fungi and yeasts. Some of the common fungal skin infection-causing microbes are Candida or Malassezia furfur and dermatophytes such as Microsporum, Epidermophyton, and Trichophyton. These fungi tend to live only in the topmost layer of the epidermis (stratum corneum) and do not enter the deeper tissues or bloodstream.
Only some fungi cause infections by attacking a healthy host. Most of these disease-causing fungi are harmless unless they encounter an immunocompromised person. In such a case, these otherwise harmless fungi can invade the defense system of the patient increasing the chance of infection. Common fungal skin infections include:
1. Athlete’s foot
Known as tinea pedis, it is a common fungal infection caused by fungi that live on dead tissue of toe nails, space between toes, sole of the feet. The fungus grows preferably in warm and moist environments. Hence, it mostly occurs in people who wear tight shoes, stay in sweaty socks, sports equipment, or by walking barefoot on damp, contaminated floors of common bathing, locker rooms or swimming areas.
The symptoms of an athlete's foot may vary from patient to patient. Common symptoms include:
Redness, itching, stinging, or burning sensations in the infected area especially between the toes or on the soles of the feet
Cracked or blistered skin
Skin may become dry, flaky and scale or peel away
Infected skin may become soft and start to break down
2. Yeast infection
They are commonly caused by yeast-like fungi Candida. It usually lives inside the digestive system or genitals without causing any harm. But in warm, moist, creased areas of the body such as the groin and armpits, or people suffering from diabetes, obesity or taking some antibiotics, candida can multiply and start to cause symptoms. However, these infections are not contagious. It can present as skin rash like diaper rash (in kids), oral thrush or candidiasis (infection of the mouth), nail fungus, and vaginal yeast infections. The signs and symptoms of various yeast infections are as follows:
3. Cutaneous or skin yeast infection
Burning and itching in infected area
Rashes
Bumps or patches that contain clear fluid
4. Nail yeast infection
Toenail fungal infection is very common although fingernails can also get affected.
Thick, yellowish or brittle nail that separates from the nail bed
Pain and swelling accompanied by pus discharge
5. Oral thrush
White or yellow patches involving the tongue, inside your cheeks, tonsils, gums or lips
Pain, soreness and burning sensation in the mouth
6. Vaginal yeast infection
Redness and soreness on and surrounding the vagina
Itching and swelling around the vagina
Unusual discharge resembling cottage cheese or a very watery discharge from vagina
Burning sensation during urination or coitus
How is vaginal yeast infection caused?
Normally, overgrowth of yeast in the vagina is kept in check by a bacterium called lactobacillus, which maintains an acidic environment in the vagina. Conditions that upset this balance such as prolonged antibiotic therapy, pregnancy, diabetes or HIV infection can lead to vaginal candidiasis. Consult a doctor to get treated.
7. Ringworm infection
Ringworm infection is not caused by a worm (as most commonly misunderstood). Instead, it is caused by a fungus. Known as tinea corporis, it is usually not a serious condition but can be highly contagious. It can spread by coming in direct contact with an infected person, pet, sharing clothes or contaminated items that carry the organism. Heat and humidity also aid in spreading the infection. Ringworm infection can present like:
Ringworm on body: Ringworm is usually very easy to recognise because of its shape. It presents as a ring-shaped rash where the border of the ring is red and slightly raised, while the inside of the ring looks clear or scaly. It may even spread out into several rings. The rash is often bothersome and itchy. It is commonly seen on parts of your body that are exposed, such as your arms, legs or trunk.
Ringworm on scalp: This fungal infection affects the scalp and the hair shafts. One can get this at any age, but it is mostly seen in children. It is usually transmitted by sharing a hairbrush or clothing contaminated with the fungus. It presents as localized bald, scaly and itchy patches on the scalp. Sometimes, the patches become inflamed and have pus-filled spots. One may also develop a pus-filled area known as a kerion.
Did you know? Ringworm can also affect your pet and you can get infected by handling your pet animal.
Jock itch: Also known as tinea cruris, jock itch is a fungal infection that presents as an red, itchy and raised rash on the genitals, groin, inner thighs and buttocks. It is more common in men and teenage boys. The fungus favours warm and humid conditions and usually exercising in workout clothes makes it flourish. It is mildly contagious and can spread through close contact with the infected person.
Risk Factors For Fungal Skin Infections
Some of the common factors that increase your risk of contracting fungal skin infections:
Living in warm or wet areas
Profuse sweating
Sharing personal items like clothing, towels, shoes or combs
Poor personal hygiene like not keeping body clean and dry
Immunocompromised individuals suffering from HIV, cancer or undergoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy
Diagnosis Of Fungal Skin Infections
To diagnose a fungal skin infection, your doctor will physically examine the area and look out for rashes, red, flaky and inflamed skin. To find out the specific fungi causing your skin condition, the doctor will scrape off a little amount of skin. This skin is then examined under a microscope or placed in a culture medium where the specific fungus is grown and identified.
Prevention Of Fungal Skin Infections
Though fungal skin infections are very common and may even occur in healthy individuals, there are certain preventive measures that can help in avoiding the risk of contraction:
It is advised to keep your feet and skin dry if you are prone to fungal infections.
You must shampoo regularly and keep your scalp clean.
It is best to avoid sharing personal belongings such as towels, clothes, combs, or other personal care items. If you still use shared items, it is advised to clean and dry them thoroughly before use.
Keep your feet covered and wear closed shoes at public places like gyms, public pools and locker rooms.
Do not wear tight footwear. Go easy on your feet and wear breathable shoes or open-toed shoes.
Use an antifungal powder in your shoes if you tend to sweat a lot.
Don’t wear synthetic socks and change your socks often.
Keep your toenails short and clean.
Pay extra attention to the skin around your genital region, and keep it dry. Prefer wearing loose-fitting, cotton underwear.
Specialist To Visit
Consult a doctor and avoid relying on over-the-counter medication if your infection does not improve. It is also important to seek medical help if you are an immunocompromised individual as in those cases a simple skin infection can enter deeper tissues and bloodstream and lead to complications.
Doctors who can help in the diagnosis and treatment of fungal skin infections are:
General physician
Dermatologist
Treatment Of Fungal Skin Infections
The treatment of fungal infections usually comprises topical or oral preparations. Localized fungal infections are usually treated with topical treatment that needs to be typically applied once or twice a day for usually for two to three weeks. Symptom resolution is the end goal of antifungal therapy. Following are the topical treatments for fungal skin infections:
Treatment with oral therapy is important for more widespread infections or cases that show no improvement with topical treatment. Oral antifungals are expected to clear the condition in about 2 to 3 weeks.
Following are the suggested oral medications (one or more) to be used in the treatment of fungal skin infections:
You can follow some of these simple tips at home to get faster results and relief from fungal skin infections:
If you are on an anti-fungal treatment, do not stop the treatment in between. Treat the affected area for as long as it is recommended by your dermatologist. With proper care and treatment, you will start noticing the results within a few days. This will help in ensuring that the ringworm does not reappear after you have stopped continuing the treatment
If you happen to touch the infected area, wash your hands before touching another area of your body. Touching or scratching the infected area and then touching another area can spread the infection. Washing your hands is the best way to prevent this.
Keep the infected area clean and dry at all times. The fungus thrives to grow in a warm, and moist environment, so it is advised to keep the area clean and dry.
Avoid wearing clothes, socks, and shoes that make you sweat a lot.
It is advised to use a different towel to dry off uninfected areas.
Treat all fungal infections at the same time. If you treat only one area at a time, you can still have an infection, which can quickly spread to other areas.
It is advised to change your clothes, underwear, gym wear and socks, every day. Wash the clothes before using them again.
It is advised to shower after working out.
Avoid sharing towels and other items of personal use. Fungal infections can easily spread to others by sharing towels, combs, and other personal items.
Infected items should be either disinfected or thrown. This includes your clothes, shoes, and other personal items.
If your treatment isn’t working, it is best to tell your dermatologist and keep regular follow-up.
The chances of fungal infections increase during the summer season, owing to hot and humid weather conditions and excessive sweating. Here are a few ways to help you deal with fungal infections during the summer season.
Complications Of Fungal Skin Infections
It is rare to see complications in fungal skin infections. One such complication includes Majocchi granuloma. It is a rare skin condition in which the fungi invade your skin via a follicle and go deeper into the dermis or subcutaneous tissues of the skin. Shaving or minor cuts on your skin can predispose patients to Majocchi granuloma. Lesions arising due to Majocchi granuloma involve the hair follicles and the lesions appear as erythematous nodules or papules. These skin lesions can even turn to abscesses in severe cases.
Alternative Therapies Of Fungal Skin Infections
Home remedies for fungal skin infections
1. Plumbago zeylanica (doctor bush)
The whole plant is crushed with an added pinch of salt and the paste is applied externally in case of ringworm infection.
2. Cannabis sativus (ganja)
Ganja or cannabis sativa is externally applied to give relief from itchy skin conditions. Hemp seed oil strengthens your skin and can resist fungal infections.
Aloe vera is known to be beneficial in various skin diseases. It is often consumed as a health drink. Aloe vera gel is effective in healing wounds and improving blood circulation in the area. Aloe vera gel also has certain properties that are harmful for certain types of fungi. It is thus effective against fungal skin infections.
Tea tree oil can be applied topically twice a day for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections.
5. Thyme oil
Thyme oil is extracted from the herb thyme. It can be used topically as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. You can apply it over the affected area for faster relief.
Living With Fungal Skin Infections
Some of the common tips and tricks for people living with fungal skin infections (especially those at high risks like diabetics and obese people) are:
1. Steer clear of high-risk activities
Fungi are widespread but are more prevalent in damp places such as soil and near water bodies. If you are prone to fungal infections, it is advised to either avoid activities like gardening and swimming. Or, pay close attention to hygiene after finishing these activities.
2. Do not self medicate
It has been reported that people who take antibiotics can develop fungal infections such as vaginal candidiasis. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor if you are prone to fungal infections and avoid taking antibiotics on your own.
3. Pay attention to personal hygiene
Hygiene plays an important role in preventing fungal skin infections. It is advised to avoid sharing personal items. Keep your feet clean and dry. Consult your dermatologist if you see a new rash.
4. Avoid getting fungal infections from pets
Some people may get fungal infections from their pets. If you notice any new circular or irregular patches on your pet, it is best to take them to a veterinarian. This will reduce your chances of contracting the infection.
5. Take care of your overall health
If you are immunocompromised or have conditions that lower your immunity, then you are at higher risk of fungal infections. Your doctor will prescribe you certain antifungal ointments and powders that will reduce your chances of getting a fungal infection.
How is vaginal yeast infection caused?
Normally, overgrowth of yeast in the vagina is kept in check by a bacterium called lactobacillus, which maintains an acidic environment in the vagina. Conditions that upset this balance such as prolonged antibiotic therapy, pregnancy, diabetes or HIV infection can lead to vaginal candidiasis. Consult a doctor to get treated.
Do you know?
Fungal infections are opportunistic, meaning they infect people whose immune system is severely compromised. Such infections can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Fungal infections due to COVID-19 infection are more common in people with severe COVID-19 or those admitted to ICU. The most common fungal infections in patients with COVID-19 include aspergillosis or invasive candidiasis.
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