Skin Fungus

Skin fungus can be uncomfortable and embarrassing

Skin fungus is an infection that is the result of a fungal organism living off a protein found in the skin, called keratin. Fungal infections are common and are broadly split into two groups -- dermatophyte infections and yeast infections. Dermatophytes cause skin fungus.

Dermatophyte Infections

These infections are very common and affect up to two in every 10 people at some point in their lives. Dermatophyte is the name given to the three types of fungus that cause athlete's foot, ringworm and nail and hair infections. Most of these infections are due to a combination of the fungus and bacteria that can breed in sweat on clothes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of skin fungus vary between infections but will normally involve itchy skin. Most will cause a rash, which can be red in appearance or may look like dry skin. Hair infections may cause rash on the scalp, resulting in hair loss.

Prevention of Skin Fungus

Skin fungi are caught by having contact with someone or something that is already infected, so avoid sharing towels, and always wear sandals by the side of pools. Wear loose fitting clothes made of natural fibres to allow skin to breath. Regularly alternate pairs of shoes so they have time to dry out.

Treatment

Treating skin fungus is straightforward. It normally involves antifungal treatments that are applied directly to the infected skin. They are normally in a cream or lotion form. In most instances a consultation with a doctor is not needed, and the remedies can be purchased over the counter. If over-the-counter remedies are insufficient, a doctor can prescribe tablets to clear the infection.

References

• Bupa: Fungal skin infections
• Quickcare: Fungus Infections