Fungal skin infection
What is a Fungal Skin Infection?
Fungal skin infections are an infection caused by a fungus. Fungi can live on the skin and cause an infection. The most common type of infection is athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), followed by jock itch (tinea cruris), ringworm (tinea corporis), and yeast infections (cutaneous candidiasis). Fungal skin infections are usually found in warm, moist areas of the body like the groin, feet, and fingernails. They can also be spread from person to person.
Signs and Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections
The signs and symptoms of fungal skin infections can vary depending on the type of infection. These symptoms may include:
- Itching, burning, and redness
- Scaly, flaky skin
- A rash with raised or flat bumps
- Sharp, cutting pain
- Dry, cracked skin
- A foul odor coming from the skin
Treating Fungal Skin Infections
Treatment for fungal skin infections depends on the type of infection. The most common treatments include topical antifungal creams or ointments, antifungal pills, and home remedies.
Topical antifungal creams or ointments are applied directly to the infected area. These medications work by killing the fungus that is causing the infection.
Antifungal pills are taken orally. These medications may be prescribed for infections that are more severe or if the topical medications are not working.
Home remedies can be used to help treat fungal skin infections. Examples of home remedies include soaking the infected area in apple cider vinegar, applying tea tree oil to the affected areas, and using an over-the-counter antifungal powder.
Complications of Fungal Skin Infections
Fungal skin infections have the potential to cause serious complications if not treated early and appropriately. These complications can include:
- Cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection)
- Skin infections caused by bacteria or viruses
- Skin discoloration
- Scarring
- Damage to the nails
- Systemic infection (affecting the entire body)