Here Are the Top 3 Treatment Options for Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can be physically painful as well as painful to look at. As signs of fungal infection appear, it is important to have them looked at by a dermatologist so proper treatment can begin before the infection gets worse. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help diagnose the fungal infection you have and provide one of these three treatment options.
Fungal Infections and Their Treatment Options
Fungal infections are caused by fungi that eventually lead to a variety of skin problems. The fungus can be picked up from almost anywhere. Fungi is not dangerous and is a common skin issue many will experience at least once. The most common fungal infections are athlete’s foot, jock itch and ringworm.
As its name implies, athlete’s foot occurs on the foot. Fungi live in warm areas such as sweaty socks, locker room floors, and other moist areas. Once the fungi is on your foot, it lives on the dead tissue of hair or toenails. It eventually results in skin problems on the feet such as itching, burning, blisters, peeling and cracking. After athlete’s foot has been diagnosed, dermatologists will recommend an antifungal oral medication or topical treatment. To prevent athlete’s foot from occurring again, keep your feet dry and clean and always wear shoes in public, but make sure your feet can breathe.
Jock itch is another type of fungal infection. Jock itch typically occurs in the summer when the groin area is warmer and more moist. Signs of jock itch include a red, itchy rash in the shape of a ring. You may also notice itching or chafing in the groin area, redness in the groin area and flaking or peeling in the groin area. Jock itch can be contagious if directly contacted. Once a dermatologist determines you have jock itch, treatment options include antifungal medication or a prescription cream. In addition to the medication or cream, remember to change your underwear every day and wash and dry the infected area.
Another type of fungal infection is ringworm. It appears in the form of a ring with a worm-like edge around it. The outer part of the infection may be raised, and multiple rings may be noticeable. Like jock itch, it can be contagious through direct contact. Ringworm can be picked up from clothing or furniture in addition to warm, moist places. After your ringworm has been seen by a dermatologist, she will recommend an antifungal medication to be used.
The best way to prevent a fungal infection is to practice good hygiene, do not share personal hygiene items such as towels or water shoes, wear shoes instead of walking barefoot and wear breathable clothing. If you think you have a fungal infection, we recommend seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible. This allows enough time to find the proper treatment and avoid the infection from getting worse. The infection typically will not go away on its own and some type of treatment will always be needed.
If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or surrounding areas and think you may have a fungal infection, complete this form. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are here to help.