Causes and Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections

Fungal infection is a common skin condition. Fungi lives of a protein called “keratin” which is a part of our skin, nails and hair. Mainly, fungal infections are caused by dermatophytes and yeasts. Usually fungi live on our skin and do no damage but when they grow excessively, they can become a problem.

Causes of Fungal Skin Infection

·         Pregnant women are often more susceptible to fungal infection. So, pregnancy is a period when women need to be extra careful to fungal infection.

·         People with weak immune system often suffer from this type of infection. People with HIV are always in risk.

·         Often this infection occurs after finishing a course of antibiotics.

·         Diabetic people with high blood sugar frequently suffer from yeast infection. The high percentage of sugar in blood attracts the yeast.

·         Overweight people are known to be more prone to fungal infection than people with normal weight.

·         This infection is contagious to some degree. If you get in direct contact to a person or animal who is suffering from this infection, it can spread to you too.

·         People who like to stay wet are often the victims. Dry yourself after bath and when you are sweaty to avoid this.

·         Tight clothing that traps the sweats inside can trigger fungal infection.

·         Walking barefoot in shower and pool areas can get you this infection.

Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infection

Symptoms depend on what type of fungus is responsible for the infection as well as the part of your body affected. Red patches are the most common symptom but the appearance might vary depending on the type of fungus involved. It can produce red itchy or scaly type skin or it can produce dry, fine scaly skin. It can affect a small part of your body or can spread in different parts. Often fungal infection is misunderstood as Psoriasis or eczema. If the infection appears on your scalp, it can lead to hair loss.

Usually doctors check the appearance of the skin and its position to identify the cause of the infection. Sometimes, a small part of the affected skin is taken and sent to the laboratory for further clarification.

Prevention is the best defense against diseases. Fungal infection is not a serious medical condition and knowing the causes and symptoms will help you figure out how you can avoid it. If the infection stays for too long and causes severe symptoms you should contact your doctor and take proper medication.