1. Identify the Itch
Fungal infections can affect many parts of the body, including the hair, nails and skin. The most important step in identifying a fungus is to determine the source of the itch. Knowing how to identify your fungal infection can prevent it from reoccurring and prevent a more serious infection from developing inside your body.
Athlete's foot is the most common fungal infection, and it is usually identified by skin around the foot that has become red and swollen or puffy. Moistness in between the toes or around the soles of the feet are also classic signs of athlete's foot. These symptoms usually areaccompanied by burning or itching. Athlete's foot can often be cured by over-the-counter (OTC) remedies. In case of an infection that doesn't respond after a week of using the OTC remedy, you should visit a podiatrist.
Jock itch is another common fungal infection. It often strikes the groin area, the armpits and underneath the breasts. This infection can be caused from an accumulation of moisture on hot days or as the result of stenuous activities, such as swimming or working out at the gym. If you have excessive folds or creases on your body, an effective treatment would be cornstarch powder, which helps to prevent the infection while it keeps you cool and dry.
Ringworm is a common fungal infection in children and is contracted through direct contact with a infected person or an animal. The classic sign of the infection is a circular pattern on the surface of the skin. This infection starts as a reddened bump and grows into a reddened circular skin patch. It continues to enlarge as it grows. Ringworm can be treated by OTC topical anti-fungal creams, and you should apply them for an additional 2 weeks after the rash has gone. If the infection is extensive, such as an infection on your scalp, oral anti-fungal drugs may be required.
2. Observe Your Nails
Fungal infections that strike the nails are common in adults but rare in children. In this infection, the nail thickens at the fingertip and around the sides of the nail. The nail bed eventually will become invaded, and you'll see an overall thickening of the nail. The nail will turn opaque, yellow or a creamy color. Eventually, small streaks and patches will develop, and the color of the nail will darken over time.
Patients who have diabetes or peripheral vascular disease may be at increased risk of developing secondary bacterial skin infections if they suffer from persistent nail or skin fungal infections. Oral treatments are the best remedies for nail fungus. For the most commonly prescribed oral treatment, a minimum of 3 months treatment is required for the toenails and as many as 6 weeks may be necessary to treat fingernails.
3. Paging the Doctor
The best way to know if you have a fungal infection is to consult with your doctor. Many other skin issues can also look like fungal infections, and therefore knowing your best possible treatment options is important. In the case of a rash on your skin, your doctor may scrape a small amount of the irritated skin, and then observe it under the microscope. He then can determine if the skin problem is caused by a fungus.
