Fungal infections of the skin and its Treatment

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Various germs such as fungi and bacteria live harmlessly on the skin and inside the body. However certain types of fungus, or overgrowths of normally harmless types can cause the symptoms of a fungal infection of the skin.

Most fungal skin conditions are not serious and are usually not easily spread from person to person. Infections deeper in the body can be more serious.

Recently taken a course of antibioticsAn immune system weakened by cancer or HIV infectionBeen taking oral steroidsDiabetes

The symptoms and appearances of a fungal skin infection depend on the type of fungus causing it and the part of the body affected.

The rash may have a variety of appearances. Some are red, scaly and itchy, whereas others can produce a fine scale similar to dry skin. The site of infection may be just one area of the body, or there may be several infected areas.

Fungal infections of the scalp or beard can lead to hair loss. Fungal rashes can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema

Taking these steps may help to reduce the risk of getting a fungal infection:

Dry the skin carefully after bathingWear loose fitting clothes and underwearAvoid sharing towels, hair brushes, and combs, which could contain skin fragments that harbour fungal coloniesChange socks or tights dailyChoose fabrics that allow the skin to "breathe" - natural fibres such as cotton are better than nylon or polyester for underwearFor sportspeople, synthetic fibres that "wick" the sweat away from the body, helping to keep the skin dry, may be preferablePeople with diabetes need to keep good control of their blood sugar

You can buy an antifungal cream from pharmacies, or get one on prescription. There are varioustypes and brands. For example; terbinafine, clotrimazole, econazole, ketoconazole, miconazole,and sulconazole. These modern creams are good at clearing fungal skin infections.

Apply the cream to the surrounding 4-6 cm of normal skin in addition to the rash.Apply for as long as advised. This varies between the different creams, so read the instructions carefully. Although the rash may seem to go quite quickly, you still need to apply the cream for 1-2 weeks after the rash has gone. This is to completely clear the fungi from the skin which will prevent the rash from returning.

An antifungal medicine taken by mouth is sometimes prescribed if the infection is widespread or severe. You do not need to stay off work or school once treatment has started.

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