SKIN DISORDERS: FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Fungal infections are very common types of skin infections. there are several types of fungal infections hence their symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.

SYMPTOMS
They vary depending on the type of infection but the most common ones include:

Skin changes- you can have a red and cracked dry skin

An itchy, stinging or burning sensation in the affected area

TYPES OF FUNGAL INFECTIONS

ATHLETE’S FOOT
Also referred to as Tinea Pedis

It is the most common type of fungal infection that affects the feet.

The term Athletes Foot originates in the fact that this fungal infection is usually associated with athletes and sportsmen and women whose feet provide a perfect avenue for fungi which thrive in warm, moist environment, sporting gear and locker rooms.

However, athlete’s foot is not only tied to sportsmen and women or athletes, but it can also affect anyone so long as the conditions are right for the fungus to thrive.

SYMPTOMS OF ATHLETE’S FOOT
Blisters on the affected area

Too soft skin or skin layers that easily break off
Scaly skin that peels away

An itchy, stinging sensation in the area that is affected

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
Worth noting is not all itchy feet are associated with athlete’s foot.

This disease usually diagnosed by a nurse or doctor by scrapping the scaly skin off and inspecting it under a microscope for any fungus.

It is treated using topical antifungal creams which are easily available for purchase.

These antifungal ointments can be bought over-the-counter or through online means.

Some chronic conditions may require oral medications such as tablets.

The feet should also be kept dry at all times to avoid re-infection and kill the fungus.

PREVENTION
Several preventive measures can be put into practice to control this disease.
Some of these measures include:

Airing your feet more often

Wearing dry shoes

Wearing sandals in public showers or locker rooms

Keeping your feet dry

YEAST INFECTION
Vaginal yeast infections are common among women, caused by Candida Albicans.

They are a form of candida overgrowth in a woman’s private area.

Candida overgrowths alter the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in a woman’s vagina.

This change may be as a result of using antibiotics, stress, poor diet etc.

SYMPTOMS
Pain when passing urine or during a sexual intercourse

Swelling and itching around the vaginal area

Sores or redness in the vagina

Abnormal vaginal discharge which may be characterized by grey clumps that look like cottage cheese. The discharge can also be watery.

A rash, in some cases

Vaginal yeast infections can be treated but they may become worse if medical attention is not sought early enough.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
They are easy to detect since the nurse or doctor needs to go through the patient’s medical history to determine whether s/he has ever had previous yeast infections or STIs.

The doctor may also need to find out whether the patient had recently used antibiotics.

S/he will also conduct a vaginal examination, the walls and cervix, for any infection.

If need be, the medic can also extract some cells from the vagina for proper diagnosis.

Treatment depends on how severe the condition is. Standard treatments include the use of tablets or creams which can be prescribed or obtained from over-the-counter.

PREVENTION
Yeast infections can be prevented by eating a balanced diet, maintaining hygiene, wearing comfortable clothing (not too tight) made of natural fibre, regular change of feminine products etc.