A fungus causes fungal infections. A fungus is a microscopic plant that thrives on both animals and plants. This infection can be prevented by practising daily hygiene routines such as bathing. Fungus thrives in the warm moist area. Some of the common symptoms of fungal infections include skin rashes, discoloured and disfigured toe/fingernails.
Parts of the body susceptible to infections
The most susceptible areas include the toe spaces, toenails, groin, fingernails, and scalp. Other parts like the upper torso can also be affected. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection that affects the toe spaces.
Occurrence of fungal infections
The increased rate of fungal infection is mainly attributed to poor nutrition and hygiene both of which lowers the body’s immunity. Other predisposing factors include overcrowding, low social standards, inadequate medical facilities and humid and hot environment.
How is fungal infection spread?
This infection is highly contagious. You can contract it directly if you happen to touch an infected person. It is also spread indirectly by coming into contact with the shoes, clothing, comb, and towel of an infected person. It spread very easily from an infected person to another or from one part to another once it finds a base. For instance, it can spread to the other parts of your body like the scalp if you happen to scratch your head. It can be controlled by maintaining rigorous hygiene.
Difference between psoriasis and fungal infection
Psoriasis is one of the genetic disorders that are non-contagious and non-infective. The distinguishing feature between the two is that there is no itching in psoriasis. This condition is mainly characterized by pitting of nails or formation of ridges on the skin causing the surrounding areas to become dry, scaly and red. It mainly affects the soles, palms, knees, scalp, and elbows. On the other hand, a fungal infection leads to decolourisation of the nails, the formation of white spots on the nails. A powdery substance might also be formed on the lower side of the nails leading to thickening or lifting of the nails.
How do you treat fungal infections?
Both local and oral medications are used in treating ringworms. Surgery might also be advised in some cases. Most of the prescribed tablets used in treating fungal infections contain ketoconazole or griseofulvin. These tablets are taken with milk to enhance the absorption of fats. Toe-nail infections are treated by taking oral medications for one year or until the nails are fully grown.