What Causes Fungal Infection on the Skin?

Fungal skin infections can be uncomfortable and unsightly. They are very common and can be spread between people and from animals, the soil, contaminated items or floors. The causes of fungal skin infections are varied. Sometimes people have a certain body chemistry that makes them more at risk for a fungal infection. Fungal skin infections appear in the folds of the skin because these areas are warm and moist, which can encourage the growth of yeast. Fungal infections of the skin are known as ‘Ringworm’, but don’t be fooled as it’s not a worm. As with all fungal infections, ringworm can be spread by touch. Fungal infections in the groin area are often called ‘jock itch’ and in between toes - ‘athlete’s foot’.

 

What types of fungal skin infections are there?

 

A fungal infection of the feet, or Athlete’s foot, most commonly appears between the folds of the toes. If you have sore, red skin that may be itching or burning or even be starting to flake and peel between your toes, you may have an athlete’s foot infection.

 

To prevent athlete’s feet you want to avoid tight shoes, sweaty socks and if you are wearing closed shoes for long periods of time or get wet feet, you should change your socks. You should avoid walking on public floors such as gym and leisure centre showers without footwear. You should wear flip-flops and not walk barefoot to decrease your risks.

 

You would notice the same symptoms – itching, burning, flaking and peeling skin – with a fungal infection in the groin as well. You should avoid tight fitting undergarments and keep the area clean and dry as a preventative measure.

 

How Do I Treat a Fungal Skin Infection?

 

The most common skin fungus treatment is an over the counter antifungal cream. For athlete’s foot, there are specific fungal creams for the feet, but you must also keep your feet clean and dry in order for the creams to be effective. To prevent repeated fungal infections, take self-help measures such as:
- Ensuring the areas are clean and kept dry

- Affected areas are not constricted by clothing or shoes

-The areas are dressed only in laundered items.

 

Pearl Chemist stocks a varied range of fungal infection cream for feet and general skin fungus treatments. Please visit the website for more information and advice. Www.pearlchemist.co.uk