Fungus on Skin

Our skin can be extremely prone to fungal infections which are difficult to spot, until they start to itch and cause rashes. These microscopic organisms can only be seen through high magnification. Fungus on skin, makes it itchy, flaky, and white. Sometimes it makes the affected area red, making it look like a skin rash.

Most eczematous skin types are a result of fungi. Before we take a look at what fungus does to our skin, let's understand a few things about this organism.

Fungus belongs to the fungal kingdom, and not to the plant or animal kingdom. Fungi are referred to as types of germs. They are a problem if they cause any infection in the human body. Unfortunately, fungal infections are very common, and are a big cause of skin irritations.

Tinea is an infection caused on nails, hair and skin. The first sign of Tinea are reddish spots on the skin. Gradually, it transforms into rings, which is popularly known as ringworm. Tinea or ringworm get their names according to the places they affect.

For instance, scalp ringworm are the ones that affect the head or hair, while body ringworm infect the chest, arms, and legs. The nails can carry nail fungus, which can also result in this infection.

Athlete's Foot does not mean that the fungi will give your feet an athletic built. In fact this fungal infection on the skin makes the toes of your feet infected with fungus. The infection spreads on the sides of the feet, on the sole, and in toenails too. One should watch out for toenail fungus.

Candida is another type of fungal infection. It mostly infects the area around the nails or any other soft body openings. Babies develop diaper rash, which can lead to candidal infection. Older women or girls develop this infection around the vagina.

Jock's Itch is the fungal infection that affects the groin and the upper thighs. The name gives an impression that it is most common amongst men, but women are equally at its risk. It begins with a small rash and later turns out into pimple-like pustules.

The treatment has to be quick, because a lot of time is usually lost in discovering the infection. The moment a fungal infection is detected, begin using an antiseptic soap. This will remove all the dirt and germs from the skin. The everyday exposure to the pollution also adds to the grime and dirt, aggravating the infection.

Dry the body with a dry cloth or hair dryer, by holding it 12-15 inches away from the body. This way, the trapped water will get evaporated. Use topical applications as prescribed by a skin specialist will also help in curing fungal infections.

Those suffering from athlete's foot, should remove their footwear from time to time, as sweat between the toenails, dark, and moist conditions inside the shoe, are the breeding grounds for fungal infections. The same is applicable for any other type of fungal infections.

'Prevention is better than cure', and there is no denying that. Fungus breeds in damp and moist conditions. This does not mean that infections are rampant in monsoons. Even sweating leads fungal infections. Hence, to avoid fungus, it is essential to keep the body dry and clean at all times.

Removing dead skin regularly, especially near the nail areas, will help prevent fungal infections within the nails. Personal hygiene is an indispensable factor, when it comes averting fungal infections.

Applying baby powder on your feet, before wearing your shoes, helps you keep your feet dry all the time. There are many home remedies available, like using a vinegar cure for toenail fungus. Fungal infections are seldom contagious, and hence must be treated as quickly as possible to avoid further spreading.