Here Are the Most Common Types of Fungal Infections
Are you suffering from a skin condition and unsure whether it’s a rash or a fungal infection? Here are a few of the most common fungal infections and what you need to know about them.
What are the Most Common Types of Fungal Infections
Ringworm
Ringworm doesn’t exactly sound like it’s a fungal infection, but fortunately this condition has nothing to do with actual worms. The truth is that it’s named for the shape of the rash, which looks like a ring with a raised, worm-like border. The most telling symptom of this fungal skin infection, as you might have already guessed, is its unique rash pattern. Unfortunately, ringworm is a relatively contagious fungal infection, as well. This condition is most commonly spread via direct contact with infected people or animals, so if you suspect you have ringworm it’s important to contact anyone you’ve recently been in contact with so you can all get proper treatment. In addition, you should avoid contact with others after you’ve been diagnosed. For fungal infection treatment, you’ll typically use topical antifungal products. Over-the-counter options are available for ringworm treatment, but it’s always safest to consult with your doctor and follow their recommended treatment program for best results.
Athlete’s Foot
As the name suggests, this is a fungal foot infection. The type of fungi that cause this condition live on dead tissue. Some common places you’ll find them is on the hair, toenails, and outermost layers of your skin. This fungus also grows best in warm, moist environments like socks and showers. And while fungal infection symptoms for athlete’s food tend to vary from person to person, some of the most common include blisters, itching or burning sensations, peeling and scaly skin on the feet, and skin that’s broken down. This fungal skin infection most commonly occurs for people who wear tight shoes, people who don’t change out of dirty or sweaty socks, and people who make frequent use of public baths and pools. Athlete’s foot may also develop in a few different ways. Interdigital athlete’s foot is the most common and occurs between the toes. Moccasin and vesicular athlete’s foot are a bit less common and both typically start on the soles of your feet.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections can occur in a number of different locations on your body, but yeast infections on the skin are quite common. This type of fungal skin infection is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called candida. Fortunately, yeast infections are not contagious. Like athlete’s foot, this fungal infection most commonly occurs in warm, moist areas. As we mentioned earlier, yeast infections can form in a number of places! Some of the most common areas where yeast infections occur include your underarms and groin. The most common fungal infection symptoms for this condition when it occurs on your skin include patches that ooze clear liquid, itching and burning sensations, and pimple-like bumps. Like ringworm, topical antifungal treatments are necessary to rid yourself of this fungal infection. In more severe cases, you may need to take oral antifungal medication to aid in your fungal infection treatment plan.
Fungal infections are fairly common, and there are plenty of treatment options available. If you suspect you’re suffering from a fungal infection, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a member of our team at North Pacific Dermatology today.