Fungal skin infections are typical skin conditions that anyone of any age and lifestyle can get. Although they generally are not dangerous, they might cause discomfort and self-consciousness and, if not treated, become more severe and spread. Heights Dermatology is devoted to educating patients of the cause of their skin issues and leading them toward healthier skin.
What Are Fungal Infections?
Fungal infections develop when there is overgrowth of the fungi that live naturally on the skin. Fungi thrive and develop when there is an excessive amount of moisture, heat, or if the body is immunocompromised. Fungal infections appear on the feet (athlete’s foot), the groin area (jock itch), the scalp, nails, and other skin areas.
Common Causes of Fungal Infections
Fungal infections tend to flourish in moist warm environments. Very common causes are:
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Sweaty and soggy garments used throughout the day
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Sharing of towels, shoes, or gym equipment
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Poor skin hygiene or impaired skin barrier
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Walking barefoot in shared facilities such as locker rooms or swimming pools
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Weakened immunity or pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes
Fungi like dermatophytes, yeasts (such as Candida), and molds are the primary cause of these infections. They multiply easily once they find the appropriate environment and become troublesome if not taken care of.
Identifying the Symptoms
Fungal infections commonly show as:
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Red, itchy, or scaly rashes
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Ring-shaped lesions (particularly with ringworm)
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Dry, splitting skin in between fingers and toes
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Discoloration or thickening of the nails
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Areas of hair loss on the scalp
The symptoms can become more severe over time and tend to develop in moist or frictional regions. They can cause physical as well as psychological discomfort that affects both your self-confidence and the quality of your life.
Do Not Overlook the Warning Signs
If you notice any signs of a fungal infection, do not ignore or assume it will dissolve on its own. Fungal infections tend to spread quickly and become increasingly harder to treat with each passing day.
At Heights Dermatology, we have the expertise you need to diagnose the cause of your condition and provide a tailored solution that brings you back to clear and healthy skin.
Contact our dermatologist in Houston today in order to schedule a consultation and make the first step towards relief from fungus infection.
