The skin of our body is the largest area that is exposed to the outside environment. In fact, this is the largest organ of the body. The primary function of the skin is to protect the body from invasion of any harmful substances like bacteria, virus, or any debris which may damage the internal organs of the body. However, at times the skin itself gets infected. It can be caused by a variety of germs present in enormity in the outside environment.
The symptoms of these infections are variable and range from mild to moderate. The mild symptoms can be treated with home remedies and do not require any specific medical intervention. However, when the infection is severe physician consultation is required for prompt treatment of the infection.
Infections that develop in the moist areas of the body such as the armpits or the genital areas are normally caused due to fungus. These are termed as Fungal Infections. These infections even though highly contagious are usually harmless. Some of the different types of fungal skin infections include Athlete’s foot, yeast infection, ringworm, oral thrush, and diaper rash.
Causes
As stated, Fungal Infections are caused due to exposure of the skin to fungus. This occurs in the moist areas of the body. Lifestyle plays a major role in increasing the risk of Fungal Infection. As an example, an individual with a history of athlete’s foot may have frequent recurrences if he or she is a professional runner and has a problem of excessive sweating. Additionally, wearing sweaty and wet clothes also increases the risk for developing Fungal Infections.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a Fungal Infection are variable and depend on the severity of the infection. The primary symptom includes dry erythematous skin along with pain, itching, and tenderness around the affected area. In severe cases, there may be raised skin lesions that are filled with pus that may ooze wen scratched.
In cases of severe fungal infection, the symptoms are
Pus
Blisters
Angioedema of eyelids and lips
Skin breakdown
Skin discoloration with dry necrotic skin
How is Hair Loss Diagnosed?
For a definitive diagnosis of the cause of the Hair Loss, the physician will first take a detailed history of the patient, including personal and family history. Once history taking is done then certain investigative tests will be ordered to come to the bottom of the cause of the Hair Loss. These tests include: Pull Test: This test involves pulling of a few strands of hair forcefully to check whether any hairs come out of their groove. This gives the physician an idea of whether the quality of hair of the patient is healthy and strong. Skin Lesion KOH Test: This test involves scraping some samples from the scalp of the patient to observe the hair roots. This gives the physician an idea as to whether there is an infection responsible for Hair Loss. Blood Test: These are done to identify any underlying medical condition like a thyroid disorder that may be responsible for Hair Loss in the patient. Microscopy: This is done to observe the hair shaft and see whether there is any abnormality there that may be causing the Hair Loss.
Treatment
The most preferred method of treating Fungal Infections are antifungal creams and sprays to get rid of the fungus, as prescribed by the physician . If this proves to be ineffective, then it becomes mandatory to consult with a dermatologist, to devise a treatment plan for the Fungal Infection. Aside from prescribing a stronger antifungal medication, NSAIDs may also be prescribed to calm down the inflammation.
Can Hair Loss be Prevented?
Hair Loss caused due to the normal process of aging cannot be prevented. However, steps can be taken to prevent loss and damage by avoiding chemical use in the hair like hair color and hair dyes. It is also recommended not to use hair dryers for long periods of time as it literally pulls the hair out from their shafts thereby damaging it. This makes the hair weak and brittle.
For healthy hair, it is always best to practice good hair hygiene by shampooing it regularly. Additionally, eating a diet rich in proteins, vitamin B, and iron is also quite effective in preventing hair loss. Keeping the thyroid levels under control and seeking immediate levels if diagnosed with an underactive or overactive thyroid is also recommended to prevent Hair Loss.
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Home >> Skin Care >> Clinical Dermatology >> Fungal Infections
Fungal Infections
Introduction
The skin of our body is the largest area that is exposed to the outside environment. In fact, this is the largest organ of the body. The primary function of the skin is to protect the body from invasion of any harmful substances like bacteria, virus, or any debris which may damage the internal organs of the body. However, at times the skin itself gets infected. It can be caused by a variety of germs present in enormity in the outside environment.
The symptoms of these infections are variable and range from mild to moderate. The mild symptoms can be treated with home remedies and do not require any specific medical intervention. However, when the infection is severe physician consultation is required for prompt treatment of the infection.
Infections that develop in the moist areas of the body such as the armpits or the genital areas are normally caused due to fungus. These are termed as Fungal Infections. These infections even though highly contagious are usually harmless. Some of the different types of fungal skin infections include Athlete’s foot, yeast infection, ringworm, oral thrush, and diaper rash.
Causes
As stated, Fungal Infections are caused due to exposure of the skin to fungus. This occurs in the moist areas of the body. Lifestyle plays a major role in increasing the risk of Fungal Infection. As an example, an individual with a history of athlete’s foot may have frequent recurrences if he or she is a professional runner and has a problem of excessive sweating. Additionally, wearing sweaty and wet clothes also increases the risk for developing Fungal Infections.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a Fungal Infection are variable and depend on the severity of the infection. The primary symptom includes dry erythematous skin along with pain, itching, and tenderness around the affected area. In severe cases, there may be raised skin lesions that are filled with pus that may ooze wen scratched.
In cases of severe fungal infection, the symptoms are
Pus
Blisters
Angioedema of eyelids and lips
Skin breakdown
Skin discoloration with dry necrotic skin
Treatment
The most preferred method of treating Fungal Infections are antifungal creams and sprays to get rid of the fungus, as prescribed by the physician . If this proves to be ineffective, then it becomes mandatory to consult with a dermatologist, to devise a treatment plan for the Fungal Infection. Aside from prescribing a stronger antifungal medication, NSAIDs may also be prescribed to calm down the inflammation.
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