fbpx

Paynow

Patient Portal

Medical Records

Not Sure What’s On Your Skin? It Could Be a Fungal Infection

Did you look into the mirror to see a strange cluster of bumps and wondered if it was acne? Sometimes those strange bumps or rashes could actually be a fungal infection. Don’t worry, it sounds worse than what it is. Fungal infections are actually quite common. We’ll help you sort it all out with a fungal infection checklist and give you an idea on how to treat it.

 

What to Know About Fungal Infections

What Is a Fungal Infection?

Mycosis is an infection rather than a condition and it doesn’t come about internally. Fungal infections are created when a species of fungi from an outside source (i.e, soil, surface germs, contracting from another person) hitches a ride on your skin and spreads.

Different types of fungal infections are well known like athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, even yeast infection. These types of fungal infections are usually formed with the right conditions and passed from person to person. Athlete’s foot and jock itch, for example, are contracted when sweaty clothes like socks and underwear are damp for too long, allowing organisms (fungi) to grow in them. If another person happens to come in contact with these materials (i.e., they wear them), the fungus is likely to attach itself to that person and spread. Such is the case with yeast infections and ringworms. Yeast infections usually only appear on the genitals. Ringworms, however, appear on the skin and scalp and can be contracted from infected animals and passed back and forth.

Being sure that you’re dealing with a fungal infection is paramount. Only then can you determine where you got it and if anyone else you know has been infected.

Signs of Fungal Infection Checklist

Determining if you have a funnel infection is crucial. The sooner you recognize the cause of your symptoms, the sooner you can begin treatment. View the checklist below to see if your symptoms match that of mycosis.

  • Skin redness
  • Irritation and discomfort
  • Scaly or cracking skin
  • Blisters and bumps (these bumps are often red and filled with pus)
  • Severe itchiness
  • Burning sensation
  • Skin peeling
  • Discoloration (darkening)

Despite the numerous home remedies that don’t really treat the issue, keep in mind that fungal infections don’t usually go away on their own or lessen in severity over time. It needs to be properly treated or else the infection may worsen and spread.

Though the above symptoms are just a few that individuals with fungal infections have experienced, your experiences may be different. Be sure to discuss your symptoms with a licensed dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.

How To Treat a Fungal Infection

Most fungal infections are easily treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream. This medicated cream can be applied topically to the infected area. Depending on the type and severity of the infection, your doctor may suggest a different type of treatment. Either way, it is recommended that you seek a dermatologist’s advice when dealing with a fungal infection.

If you’re in Cincinnati, Ohio, then our experts at The Dermatology Group are here to help you explore treatment options, give you advice, resources, and more. Give us a call today!

Was this helpful?

We would love to meet you and get started on a solution!