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4 Fungal Infections That Can Affect Your Skin
Fungal infections can be itchy, uncomfortable, and embarrassing — especially when they affect your skin. Your fungal infection may ooze, appear red and inflamed, or resemble acne.
An accurate diagnosis is essential to properly treat your fungal infection and clear your skin. At Hines Dermatology Associates in Attleboro, Massachusetts, Yvonne Hines, MD, and our expert team provide exceptional care for fungal infections.
Here are four common fungal infections that can affect your skin and how we might treat them:
1. Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot)
Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, typically affects the skin between your toes. This infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making sweaty feet in tight shoes an ideal breeding ground.
How athlete’s foot affects your skin
Athlete’s foot can cause dry, flaky skin, itching, and a burning sensation. Your skin may crack, peel, or even develop blisters. In advanced cases, the infection can spread to your toenails, causing them to thicken and discolor.
How we treat it
Treating athlete’s foot usually starts with antifungal topicals to eliminate the fungus. Keeping your feet dry and clean is also crucial. In more persistent cases, we may prescribe oral antifungal medications to ensure the infection fully clears. Wearing breathable shoes and cotton socks can help prevent a recurrence.
2. Tinea corporis (body ringworm)
Tinea corporis, or body ringworm, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your trunk, neck, arms, and other areas of your body. It’s named for the circular, ringlike rash it usually creates.
How ringworm affects the skin on your body
Body ringworm appears as a red, scaly, and often itchy rash. The edges of the rash may be slightly raised, while the center appears clearer. The infection can spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated objects like towels or clothing.
How we treat it
Topical antifungal creams are usually effective for treating body ringworm. Applying the cream as directed is essential for clearing the infection. For more extensive infections, we may recommend oral antifungal medications. Keeping your skin clean and dry can help prevent the spread and recurrence of the infection.
3. Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)
Tinea capitis, or scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection that affects your scalp and hair shafts. This type of fungal infection is more common in children but can affect people of all ages.
How it affects your skin
Scalp ringworm often starts as a small, itchy patch on your scalp. As it progresses, it can cause hair loss in the affected area, leaving behind bald spots. Your scalp may become red, inflamed, and scaly. In some cases, pus-filled sores can develop.
How we treat it
Treating scalp ringworm typically requires prescription oral antifungal medication because topical treatments alone may not penetrate the hair follicles. We may also recommend antifungal shampoos to reduce the spread of the fungus to others. Early treatment is key to preventing permanent hair loss and scarring.
4. Tinea cruris (jock itch)
Commonly known as jock itch, tinea cruris is a fungal infection that affects the groin area. Similar to athlete’s foot, it thrives in warm, moist environments, making it common in athletes and individuals who sweat a lot.
How it affects your skin
Jock itch appears as a red, itchy rash in your groin area, including your inner thighs and buttocks. The rash may be ring-shaped, with raised edges and a darker color. It can cause significant discomfort, especially during physical activity.
How we treat it
Treatment for jock itch usually involves applying topical antifungal creams or powders to the affected area. Keeping the area clean and dry is essential to speed up healing and prevent reinfection. We may also recommend wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding tight, restrictive garments that can trap moisture.
Fungal infections can be difficult to get rid of on your own. At Hines Dermatology Associates, we’re dedicated to helping you find lasting relief from these uncomfortable conditions. Call our office in Attleboro, Massachusetts, or use online booking to request an appointment today.
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