Fungal Infections are a growing menace today, simple reason being hot and humid working environments and lack of awareness among people. These can can cause some embarrassing moments when amongst people. The itching can be frustrating at times and can hamper your work. They can , have implications on your looks
ETV Bharat Sukhibhava was in conversation with Dr. Uma S Kamat, Consultant dermatologist at Marmagao Port Trust (MPT) Hospital and SMRC Vasco.
Fungi can be found in soil, plants and even on your skin. Under normal circumstances, these fungi do not cause any problem but can give rise to infection if your immunity is lowered and these fungi multiply faster than normal.
Obese and people and people with diabetes are more susceptible to fungal infections. Fungal infections are highly contagious – One member of the family if, infected can transmit the infection to others by direct contact or by sharing of clothing. A prolonged course of antibiotics or immunosuppressant drugs predisposes to fungal infection.
Common types of fungal infections are:
Ringworm
Mostly seen as a scaly rash with raised borders that is itchy.
Athlete’s Foot
- Seen as a dry, scaly rash between the toes or soles
- Sometimes can present with redness and blistering.
- Prolonged use of closed footwear predisposes to this type of infection.
Jock Itch
- Fungal Infection in the groin
- Mostly common in men and adolescent boys
- Wearing tight-fitting clothes predisposes to Jock Itch.
Ringworm of the scalp
- Mostly seen in children
- Seen as scaly patches with loss of hair
- Associated with itching which can progress to pain
- Requires prolonged therapy with oral anti-fungals
Tinea Versicolor
- Caused by overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia, which is naturally present on the skin