Fungal Infections Risk Factors Prevention | Femina.in - Femina

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Fungal skin diseases are brought about by various sorts of fungi and are the main reasons behind an irritated skin. Fungi attack and develop in dead keratin, a protein that makes up your skin, hair and nails. The various sorts of fungal diseases are caused by various groups of fungi. Some common fungal skin infections include ringworm, intertrigo, nail infections, Athlete's foot, etc. Dermatologist Dr Jagatjit Singh Kohli tells us more about this ailment, and the risks involved, as well as preventive measures.

Fungal rashes can at times be mistaken for other skin conditions, for example, psoriasis and eczema. Fungal skin diseases can bring about a number of skin rashes; some of them being red, textured and itchy. The organism can influence only one region or a few zones of your body. In the event that you get a fungal disease of your scalp, you might lose some hair.

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Risks Of Fungal Infection

The likelihood of fungal infections increase in the following cases:

• If you are overweight.
• Not drying your skin completely after a shower or wash.
• Walking barefoot in shower and wet locations.
• In case of a pregnancy.
• If you have a weak immune system.
• If you suffer from diabetes.
• If you are exposed to a person or animal with fungal infections.
• Due to a recent course of antibiotics.

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Preventing Fungal Infection

There are steps which can be taken in order to protect yourself from getting parasitic skin contamination:

• Dry your skin properly after a shower.
• Try not to share hairbrushes, towels or combs since they might be carrying fungi.
• In case a family member has been infected with scalp ringworm, hats, pillows, combs or scissors should be soaked using water and bleach.
• Allow your shoes sufficient time to dry out by alternating them every two or three days.
• In order to keep moisture away from the skin, wear loose clothes that are made of cotton or other breathable materials.
• Socks, bed linen and clothes should be washed regularly to prevent the growth of any fungi.
• In communal and wet areas like saunas, swimming pools, showers, etc., wear clean plastic shoes or flip-flops.
• If you have diabetes, try to keep your blood sugar under control.

Also Read: 7 Best Home Remedies & Treatment For Fungal Infection

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