5 Most Common Fungal Infections

1. 5 Most Common Fungal Infections Fungi are eukaryotic single cellular or multicellular microorganisms that exist in all habitats worldwide. Although there are about 1,44,000 known fungi species, only a few hundred are known to cause infections in humans. The infections caused by fungi are known as fungal infections. They can be contagious and commonly affect people with weak immune systems. To combat most fungal infections, the antifungal ointments containing topical antifungal agents are often used. What are the most common fungal infections, and how are they treated? Fungal infections, also known as mycosis, can be caused by different types of fungal species. The following are the most common types of fungal infections. 1.Ringworm on the scalp (Tinea corporis) and the body (Tinea capitis)

2. Tinea corporis is a highly contagious infection that commonly affects teenagers and sports persons since these fungal organisms thrive to grow in moist and wet (sweating), warm environments. Ringworm infection on the scalp can cause irritation, itching, red scaly patches, and bumps on the scalp and may often cause scarring or permanent hair balding. How is Tinea corporis treated? Over-the-counter (OTC) medication and best ointment for fungal infection containing clotrimazole or terbinafine, or itraconazole as active ingredients are most effective in treating mild cases of Tinea corporis. Ringworm on the body (Tinea capitis) is a fungal infection that causes skin rashes characterized by appearances of red-itchy patches on the skin. It is often highly contagious and spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with the infected person. How is Tinea capitis treated? Treatment of Tinea capitis usually depends on the severity and site of fungal infection. OTC medications, best antifungal lotion, and best ointments for fungal infection containing clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, and tolnaftate as active ingredients can be directly applied to the infected regions to prevent the spread of the infection. 2. Athlete's Foot (Tinea pedis) Athlete's Foot is a contagious fungal infection of the skin that affects the space between the toes or the sole. These dermatophytes are commonly contracted in a moist and closed environment such as swimming pools,

3. locker rooms, or in sweaty feet confined with tight shoes. Athlete's Foot usually causes blisters and itchy scale fissures in the space between the toes. How is Tinea pedis treated? Antifungal OTC medications, best antifungal ointments, antifungal powders, and best antifungal lotions containing clotrimazole, sulconazole, or miconazole are effective in treating mild cases of Tinea pedis. 3. Jock itch (Tinea cruris) Tinea cruris are dermatophytes meaning fungal skin infection primarily affecting the groin, buttock, and other moist areas of the body. Jock itch occurs most commonly in athletes, teenagers, and obese people. How is Tinea cruris treated? Fortunately, Tinea cruris does not cause any major concerns and often disappears within a week if appropriately treated using medications. However, for severe cases, dermatologists often suggest using the best ointments for fungal infection containing terbinafine, griseofulvin, or other topical agents as the active ingredient. 4. Pityriasis versicolor (Tinea versicolor) Tinea versicolor is a non-contiguous fungal skin infection characterized by discoloration or development of patches on the chest and back. It primarily affects young adults who perspire (sweats) heavily.

4. How is Tinea versicolor treated? Treatment of Tinea versicolor usually depends on the severity and site of fungal infection. Clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, and other active ingredients of best antifungal ointments effectively prevent the spread and reoccurrence of the Tinea versicolor. 5. Onychomycosis (Tinea unguium) Onychomycosis is non-dermatophytic (not affecting the skin) fungal infections that affect nails. It causes nails to thicken, discolor, become brittle, and crumble at the edges. Toenails are more susceptible than fingernails as they are frequently exposed to wet floors. How is Tinea unguium treated? Fungal toenail infections can be quite tricky to treat, as toenails are more frequently exposed to harsh wet and moist environments. Treatment for Tinea unguium involves the use of antifungal ointments, lotions, creams, nail polishes, and other topical agents to prevent the spread of infection from one finger to other neighboring fingers. What are the side effects of antifungal medications? Although antifungal creams, lotions, powder, and oral medications are widely used in the treatment of fungal infection, occasionally, it may cause few mild side effects. Some of the possible side effects of antifungal medications include: Adverse drug reaction Irritation and itchiness Burning sensation Skin rash

5. Abdominal pain Blistering of skin Source - Blogspot