Superficial fungal infection of the skin, commonly known as ringworms, is a contagious skin infection caused by various species of fungus.
The name “ringworm” probably comes from the rash that many people see. On the skin, the rash often has a ring-shaped pattern and a raised, scaly border that snakes its way around the edge like a worm.
Fungal infection is a common illness and occurs in the following forms –
Ringworm can appear on any part of your body, including soles, palms, scalp, groin, and nails.
Certain types of fungi are known to cause ringworm. These fungi thrive in warm and humid conditions. They are more prevalent in tropical areas and during hot, humid summers, especially in warm, moist locker rooms and indoor pools.
You can also get ringworm when the weather is cool because ringworm is extremely contagious.
The spores of fungi that cause ringworm can be present on any infected object, including clothing, brushes, and sports equipment for a long time.
It’s possible to get ringworm from:
Fungal infections affect different parts on the body, that show various symptoms:
Skin
Feet with ringworm infection (athlete’s foot).
Hand with ringworm infection
Nails with ringworm infection
Beard area with ringworm infection
Fungal Infection of the skin is a bothersome disease that can fester if left untreated. While making it difficult for the infected person to perform daily tasks, fungal infection also has an impact on the person’s self-esteem in the long run.
At DermaSure, we generally treat fungal infection with antifungal medicine in the form of creams, ointments, and pills. What you use will depend on the area of the body that needs treatment:
An antifungal ointment or cream often clears ringworm on the skin. Most of these medicines you apply twice a day for two to four weeks. If the ringworm covers a large area of skin, you may need to take a prescription antifungal medicine.
An antifungal cream or spray that you buy without a prescription may clear an athlete's foot. A mild case usually clears in two weeks. If the athlete’s foot is more severe or fails to clear in two weeks, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medicine.
Usually, antifungal cream, spray, or powder are useful in the treatment without a prescription. You typically apply the antifungal twice a day for 10 to 14 days. In chronic cases, consulting the dermatologist becomes necessary.
On the scalp, fungal infection requires prescription medicine.
In this case, stronger antifungal medicine like terbinafine or itraconazole is necessary. If the ringworm has spread to a fingernail, you will need to take antifungal medicine for a longer time to get rid of the infection.
Because nails grow slowly, the fungal infection of nails takes slightly longer time to clear. You may also need to follow preventive measures to avoid reinfection.
Ringworm in the beard area requires antifungal medicine and a tailor-made treatment plan. Your dermatologist may need to remove unhealthy tissue to help the area heal. You’ll also need to shave the infected hair.
Yes, fungal infections in humans can be contagious and easily transmitted from person to person or through contact with contaminated surfaces. It’s important to take precautions to prevent spreading the infection to others or acquiring it from an infected individual.
Anyone can develop a fungal infection, but certain factors can increase the risk. These include having a weakened immune system, prolonged moisture or sweat on the skin, living in crowded or humid environments, wearing tight or non-breathable shoes, having close contact with infected individuals or animals, and using public facilities like gyms or swimming pools.
While most fungal infections on skin primarily affect the nails, or mucous membranes, certain types of fungi can cause systemic infections that affect internal organs. These systemic fungal infections are more common in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or receiving organ transplants.
Some natural remedies and home treatments may offer relief and support the healing process for mild cases of fungal infections. These can include using over-the-counter antifungal creams, applying tea tree oil, using vinegar or baking soda soaks, maintaining good hygiene practices, and keeping the affected area clean and dry. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and to ensure appropriate treatment, especially for more severe or persistent infections.
Parasitic diseases are caused by hundreds of organisms that exist in our regular environment. Most individuals can be uncovered to organisms frequently without an unfavourable response, but certain conditions can cause the organisms to overgrow and cause side effects.
Leave Them To #1 Skin & Hair Specialist In Delhi
