Who Is At Risk For Developing A Fungal Rash
Anyone can develop a fungal rash. Superficial infections of the skin and nails are cited as the most common form of infection, affecting up to 20-25% of the worlds population at any given time. For example, athletes foot often affects otherwise healthy people. You may have a higher risk for developing a skin rash if you:
- Have a weakened immune system .
- Take long-term or high-dose antibiotics.
- Have excess weight.
- Are pregnant.
What Are The Most Common Fungal Skin Infections
Many common fungal infections can affect the skin. In addition to the skin, another common area for fungal infections is mucous membranes. Some examples of these are vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush.
Below, well explore some of the most common types of fungal infections that can impact the skin.
Home Remedies For Ringworm
used for ringwormGarlic:Garlic has anti-fungalSoap:Do use an antibacterial soap that will disinfect your body and kill the fungal infection in its early stages.Apple cider vinegar:apple cider vinegarAloe vera:Coconut oil:skin infectionscoconut oil kills fungal cellsTurmeric:Powdered licorice:Tea tree oil:treat fungal infectionscoconut oilOregano oil.Organic neem oil:Ayurveda for centuries
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Who Is At Risk Of A Skin Fungus?
You are more at risk of getting a skin fungus if you:
- are taking steroids
- have a weak immune system caused by HIV/AIDS or cancer
- have had a skin infection in the past
- suffer from high blood sugar levels or uncontrolled diabetes
Eat Yoghurt And Probiotics
Yoghurt and other probiotics have an ample amount of good bacteria that help stave off many fungal infections. These fight off microbes that cause these infections.
Fermented foods are another excellent source of probiotics. If these are not helping, you could use probiotic supplements that have more concentrated dosages of good bacteria. Read more on the health benefits of yoghurt.
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Effective Home Remedies For Skin Fungus That Will Surprise You
Do you know that there are millions of fungi on earth? You might find this fact troubling when you know that some fungi can cause deadly diseases. Fortunately for us, only about 300 can make you ill.
However, skin fungi infections are common, because the fungi live in the soil, on the trees/plants, and even on our skin. Yes, thats right. Tiny microorganisms are living on your skin, as you read this article, and its completely normal.
Nevertheless, these tiny microorganisms can cause a lot of troubles and discomfort when their numbers grow. Usually, doctors prescribe topical antifungal medication. But thats not your only option, because you can employ some tested home remedies for skin fungus that will take care of the problem as fast as prescribed lotions.
Whats more, they are easy to prepare, and you have most of the ingredients at home. So, if youre interested in learning five home remedies for skin fungi, dont hesitate to keep on reading.
Well start by explaining what the most common types of fungus are and what symptoms to look for if we suspect a fungus infection.
Depending on the type of fungus, we have different skin infections:
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Top 5 Treatments For Fungal Skin Infections
Fungal infections on the skin can cause itchy rashes, peeling skin, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Receiving a diagnosis from a dermatologist is the first step toward finding relief. Here are some of the most effective fungal infection treatments that your dermatologist may recommend.
Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Nail Fungus
Although some people may refer to these alternative treatments as quack science, there appears to be a little more to these homemade remedies since many individuals have used them to cure their conditions. However, more research still needs to be conducted on the success rate of home remedies for nail fungus.
Some common and supposedly effective alternative treatments include:
According to Dr. Josh Axe of the Exodus Health Center, apple cidar vinegar not only helps to soothe sunburns, balance pH in the body, manage blood sugar levels, and aid in weight loss, its also an ingredient that contains anti-fungal properties. As such, many sufferers of fungal nail infection have now turned to this healthy food to cure their conditions.
The acidic properties of apple cidar vinegar prevent nail fungus from spreading. At the same time, apple cidar vinegar helps to get rid of dead skin cells while killing bacteria and fungi.
Simply mix it with water in equal parts then soak the infected nails for up to 30 minutes in the solution. Repeat this process daily and pat dry the infected nails after soaking.
Another study conducted by Russian researchers showed that a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide had been instrumental in killing off fungus at the radioactive Chernobyl site.
For this remedy, one should simply apply lemon juice on the infected nail for about 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
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Causes Of Fungal Skin Infections
Many different fungi and yeasts can cause infections of your skin, hair and nails. These may be spread:
- from person to person
- from animals to people
- more rarely, to a person from the soil
Some fungal skin infections for example, candida usually come from an overgrowth of your own previously harmless fungi.
You can pick up fungi which might cause infection if you come into contact with an infected person or animal. Thats why people who play close contact sports such as wrestling are more likely to get fungal skin infections. You can also pick up fungi by sharing contaminated items such as clothes, towels, hairbrushes or bedclothes. Walking barefoot in shared showers and pool areas may mean you pick up fungi on your feet.
Fungi like warmth and moisture so youre more likely to get an infection if you:
- wear tight clothing, or shoes that dont let your feet breathe in a warm, humid environment
- are overweight and so have skin folds which rub against each other
Youre also more likely to have a fungal skin infection if you:
- have a weakened immune system through illness such as HIV or use of medication such as corticosteroids
- are pregnant
Causes And Risk Factors Of Tinea Versicolor
Its not clear why some people get tinea versicolor more than others, says Dr. Harth. One theory is that it depends on the composition of the sebum or skin oils in those people. An increase of sebum likely creates an environment for Malassezia to thrive.
Other conditions may also contribute to tinea versicolor, explains Ife Rodney, MD, founding director of Eternal Dermatology and Aesthetics in Fulton, Maryland. When the skin is sweaty, warm, or moist, the yeast can overgrow, resulting in slightly scaly light or dark oval patches usually on the back, neck, or chest.
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Tinea Versicolor Home Remedies
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Prevention Of Tinea Versicolor
Tinea versicolor can return after treatment. To reduce the chances of a recurrence, your doctor may recommend using a topical or oral treatment once a month or more often.
Some doctors also suggest using a medicated cleanser once or twice a month especially if you live in a warm, humid location to prevent the yeast from growing excessively again.
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When Should Someone Seek Medical Care For Athletes Foot
If you notice any redness, increased swelling, bleeding, or if your infection is not clearing up, see your health care professional. If a bacterial infection is also occurring, an antibiotic pill may be necessary. If you have fungal nail involvement, are diabetic, or have a compromised immune system, you should also see your physician for treatment.
- Body skin fungus
- Secondary bacterial infections
This type of fungus generally likes to live in the skin, hair, and nails. It does not invade deep, go into body organs, or go into the blood system.
Fungal infections of the nails are called tinea unguium or onychomycosis. Nail fungus may be very difficult to treat. Antifungal pills may be required in cases of more advanced toenail fungal infections.
People with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other immune problems may be more prone to all kinds of infections, including fungus. In patients with diabetes, fungal infections may lead to potentially dangerous foot ulcerations.
When the skin is injured or damaged, the natural protective skin barrier is broken. Bacteria and yeasts can then invade the broken skin. Bacteria can cause a bad smell. Bacterial infection of the skin and resulting inflammation is known as cellulitis. This is especially likely to occur in individuals with diabetes, chronic leg swelling, who have had veins removed , or in the elderly. Bacterial skin infections also occur more frequently in patients with impaired immune systems.
Treatment Of Fungal Skin Infections
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Antifungal drugs
-
Measures to prevent moisture
Fungal infections are typically treated with antifungal drugs, usually with antifungal drugs that are applied directly to the affected area . Topical drugs may include creams, gels, lotions, solutions, or shampoos. Antifungal drugs may also be taken by mouth.
In addition to drugs, people may use measures to keep the affected areas dry, such as applying powders or wearing open-toed shoes.
Corticosteroids can help relieve inflammation and itching caused by some infections, but these should be used only when prescribed by a doctor.
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What Types Of Skin Fungus Are There
There are several different kinds of skin fungi, each with its own symptoms, mode of transmission, and treatments. A dermatologist can determine the nature of a patients fungal skin infection through a physical exam, which may involve gently scraping off samples of affected skin. Here are 5 common types of skin fungus:
When Should I See My Doctor About A Rash
Most rashes are not serious. But its always a good idea to see your healthcare provider if you have skin changes. Your provider can recommend a course of treatment to help you feel better and diagnose any underlying conditions.
- Is all over your body.
- Starts suddenly and spreads quickly.
- Is painful, blistered or infected.
- Happens along with a fever.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Fungal skin rashes can be uncomfortable and itchy, but they are treatable. See your healthcare provider if you notice any rashes or changes in your skin. Typically, a course of antifungal creams will clear up the rash and relieve the itchiness. Your healthcare provider can also discuss preventive steps to keep the rash from coming back.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/25/2020.
References
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What Does Ringworm Look Like
Ringworm is another fungal infection, but its tricky. It easily confused with other skin problems like eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. But if you look closely, youll notice this particular infection starts from a circular patch on the skin and travels outward.
Ringworm results in red, itchy, and scaly skin. Most people are familiar with ringworm but dont know exactly how it looks. With ringworm, always look for a circular center.
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How To Kill Fungus Medically
Many fungal skin infections are topical, occurring on the skin surface. For this reason, these infections can be treated with topical medical preparations in the forms of lotions, creams, medicated powders and sprays. Many of these are available from pharmacists without prescription, and the pharmacist will give you advice accordingly. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or when the infection remains even after using over-the-counter remedies.
In the case of widespread skin infections, or infection of nails or scalp, it is recommended that you consult your doctor who will examine and prescribe more potent medication, usually in form of tablets. Due to the recurrent nature of fungal skin infections, you might be advised to take the medication for two weeks or more after the physical signs of the infection disappear.
Prescribed medication will usually clear the infection, although some of it may have some side effects such as skin irritation for topical preparations and upset stomach for oral medications.
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Alternative And Complementary Therapies
Applying over-the-counter dandruff shampoos to the skin for about 10 minutes a day while in the shower can be a useful home remedy. Ask your doctor if this might help you.
Other home remedies sometimes suggested include honey, olive oil, and beeswax. Ask your doctor or dermatologist before trying any of them.
In one small study, an application of equal parts honey, olive oil, and beeswax helped a majority of patients. They applied the mixture three times a day for about a month.
Are There Home Remedies For Tinea Versicolor
A variety of home remedies are recommended for tinea versicolor. These are, for the most part, the ones that are recommended for other skin diseases such as eczema and acne. Many home remedies have some mild antibiotic and antifungal properties that might help, but in many cases, they may cause problems of their own.
Tea tree oil, aloe vera, and garlic are all potential skin allergens and their application may cause an itchy, blistering reaction. Garlic is also a skin irritant as can be turmeric and apple cider vinegar when used excessively.
Some home remedies such as coconut oil, oregano oil, and Indian lilac have the potential to encourage growth of the yeast, especially when they use an olive oil base. Yogurt has been recommended to be ingested and applied topically for the probiotic effect.
While most home remedies are harmless, there are no studies to suggest that any of them, or diet manipulation, will be helpful in most patients.
None of these have been studied in pregnancy and all herbal and “natural” treatments should be approached carefully in the pregnant patient.
Talk to your doctor before starting any home remedy as some may interact with medications you are prescribed.
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Wash With Soap And Water
Clean the affected area with soap and water twice daily before you apply any home remedies or any other medication. This will control the spread of infection. While soap and water may not always be able to eliminate a fungal infection entirely, it helps to keep the spread down and lower the intensity of the infection.
What Are Symptoms Of A Fungal Infection
Fungal infection often appears as a rough, cracking and sometimes bleeding skin area. A fungal infection might appear as a circular patch of different sizes. Nonetheless, fungal infections might not always cause round lesions but will lead to darkening or redness of the skin with white peeling flakes and specks. Oftentimes, the affected area is itchy, and sometimes be moist with the musty odor.
For people with a prolonged fungal infection, it will cause a dark discoloration of the skin and usually spreads to the surrounding skin area when the time passes. If you scratch the area, it could result in cross infections of other unaffected body areas.
There is no science-based evidence for the following homemade recipes. The recipes we’ve focused on are traditional home remedies, so always consult your doctor and check out your health condition regularly.
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What Is A Skin Fungus
Skin fungus is a highly contagious infection which could be transmitted to another individual on contact. It is crucial to treat the affected area because it might spread on the whole body and leads to other complications. There are different types of skin fungus or skin infections like ringworm, athletes foot, jock itch, and others. A skin fungus is an infection of the human skin by a fungus, which is a microorganism often consuming dead material. In humans, the outer layer of skin is made up of dead skin cells that build a barrier to the outside environment. That barrier may maintain its health, but if damaged, it could be prone to some types of infections. There are some kinds of fungi dermatophytes and yeasts, which could rapidly invade or build itself on the surface of the skin.
What Are Causes Of A Skin Fungus?
Skin fungus loves warm and moist environments. For athletes foot, the fungus causing this condition could develop in socks and shoes that are not clean a common habit of many athletes. Their shoes end up collecting sweat, dirt, and bacteria, thereby causing an infection. Fungal infections could also be caused by microscopic fungi living on the dead tissues of the skin, hair, and toenails. The public areas such as a locker room at gyms, public showers or swimming pools are a common breeding ground for skin fungus.
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