Fungal Rash
What are Fungal Rashes?
Before we define fungal rash, let us first define “rash.” Rash is a term which is given to describe the incidence of skin eruption. Some experts would define it as any kind of inflammatory disorder that affects the skin, which is the largest organ of the human body. Fungal rash is a type of skin infection that is caused by profusion of germs, particularly those which belong to the fungi family. It can be contagious, but is noninfectious and most often not too severe. However, if deep infections caused by fungal rashes are acquired, then the rash will have a higher chance of becoming very grave in the long run. Fungal rash is common in humid areas because fungi adapts well to this kind of environment. According to studies, fungal rash is a commonly reported infection which anybody can experience.
Picture 1 – Fungal diaper rash
Image source: healthergy.net
Fungal Rash Symptoms
If a person experiences fungal rash, then he or she will manifest all or some of the following symptoms:
- Itchiness
- Redness
- Scaly patches
- Hair loss
- Absence of distinct borders
- Appearance in one part of the body and ability to spread to other areas
This commonly reported rash can be difficult to diagnose.
Fungal Rash Pictures
Picture 2 – Fungal rash on the face
Picture 3 – Fungal rash on the back
Fungal Rash Causes
People who are likely to experience fungal rash include the following who:
- have a weak immune system
- are diabetic
- are undergoing cancer therapy
- has AIDS or HIV
- take antibiotics and/or steroids on a day-to-day basis
- are obese
- have experienced a previous fungal infection
- have moist, warm, and airless areas of skin
- have recently acquired trauma or cut in the skin
The people who are at risk of acquiring fungal infections are those who display the following:
- Mobility loss
- Incontinence
- Profuse sweating
- Skin aggravation due to the use of various kinds of skin care products
Fungal Rashes on Various Places
Legs
Fungal rash on the legs indicates a serious problem that must be treated and diagnosed as early as possible even when the condition is still benign. In the case of women who have this kind of fungal rash on their legs, they can develop a low self-esteem since the rash is so visible. It is very tempting and easy to scratch the fungal rash on the legs, but it is advisable not to scratch it as this will worsen the condition.
Skin
There are different kinds of fungal skin rashes which can be classified as ringworm, athlete’s foot, tinea cruris, tinea versicolo,r and fungal scalp infection. We will define each one thoroughly.
- Ringworm – It is commonly reported in children. It is characterized by a red, ring-like circular eruption which can be treated effectively with over-the-counter antifungal creams.
- Athlete’s foot– This kind of fungal skin rash is present on the toes and in between the web spaces. It manifest itself as an itchy red rash. It is possible that this kind of fungal skin rash can recur, so it is important to keep the affected area and its surrounding area kept dry and clean to prevent it from recurring. Furthermore, it can effectively be treated with over-the-counter creams.
Picture 4 – Athlete’s foot image
- Tinea cruris– It is also known as jock itch which results in inflamed, itchy, red rash on the buttock crease or groin area. The treatment for this kind of disease condition requires over-the-counter antifungal cream.
Picture 5 – Fungal rash on the groin caused by tinea cruris
- Tinea versicolor – This is a kind of fungal skin rash that affects the trunk and other exposed areas. It is characterized by flat, brownish, scaly rash which results in depigmentation in people who have a dark skin complexion. Well-known treatments include the application of a special shampoo.
- Fungal scalp infection – This kind of fungal skin rash is the most difficult to eradicate and will heavily require prescriptions of antifungal medications.
Face
It is also known as tinea barbae, tinea face, fungal face infection, face fungus, face ringworm, or fungal infection of the face. It is brought about by a superficial kind of infection which is caused by dermatophytes or perhaps kertinophilic fungi. It is commonly reported by people who live in warm climates.
Back
Commonly termed as tinea versicolor, the rash is characterized by skin discoloration on the back. Solar lentigos or sun spots may appear, due to over exposure to the sun. An individual with these spots will be at a high risk for developing skin cancer.
Groin
It is medically termed as tinea cruris, which appears only in the groin area. Anti-fungal creams which can be bought over the counter are used to treat the condition.
Fungal Rash Treatment
The common and effective treatments of fungal rash are as follows:
- Antifungal creams
- Antihistamine
- Moisturizing lotion
- Anti-itch creams
Most of the medications that are used are topical types which are the safest kind. Although oral medications are sometimes employed, it is advisable to consult a doctor first before getting this kind of medication.
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