The main fungal infections

There are more than 200,000 types of mushrooms, of which only one hundred can infect. They are called mycosis and cover very different realities. Here is some general information and a focus on yeast and ringworm infections.

Fungal infections can be classified according to the organs affected. So when the skin and nails are affected, we speak of superficial yeast infections. And when the fungus is present in the blood and can affect every organ, we speak of deep yeast infections. These cases are much more annoying, especially for people whose natural defenses are weakened.

The most common and best known fungal infections are yeast and pinworm infections.

Yeast Infections

Candida mushrooms include more than 200 species, including 20 human pathogens. These yeasts are found both in the skin and in the mucous membranes and can affect healthy people. These infections benefit from an imbalance in the skin environment: microbial environment, acidity, concentration of nutrients. Mycosis of the skin mainly affects the areas of sweat: the armpits, the areas of the fingers, etc. The mucous and oral cavities as well as the vaginal mucosa and the esophagus can also be infected.

Fortunately, treating yeast infections is generally quick and effective. It is based on topical antifungals.

The same type of Candida can be involved in systemic fungal infections that spread throughout the body. They are often the result of nosocomial infections. In this case, however, the treatment is much heavier and the risk of complications is high.

Ringworm

The ringworm is caused by fungi called dermatophytes, including the three types Trichophyton, Microsporum and Epidermophyton. These fungi are transmitted by an infected person or animal. They need keratin to thrive and therefore they can be found on the skin, nails and hair. Symptoms can vary, but most often we find round and sharp hairs that are rarely accompanied by itching.

When they reach the scalp, these mushrooms are called ringworms. This infection mainly affects children and is very contagious.

The nails can also be infected, this is called onychomycosis. In this case, the nail has a yellow or brown color or a white spot, and it deteriorates and becomes thicker. Complications such as ingrown toenails and pain can occur. However, these symptoms are not enough to diagnose the infection, and only a doctor is authorized to diagnose it. In addition, laboratory analysis may confirm the origin of the disorder.

Treating these fungal infections like ringworm is generally simple, but time consuming. It is based on antifungals, the shape of which varies depending on the location of the infection. It can be cured with powder, shower gel, cream and sometimes oral treatment. Preventive measures can reduce the risk of recurrence.

Another disease that mainly affects children is head lice. These are not fungi, but parasites, tiny insects that spread through the hair upon contact with the hair and feed on our blood on the scalp. They need to be treated properly as, if not eliminated, they can cause various skin infections, including a bacterial infection called impetigo.

Treat nail fungal infections

Suffering from nail fungus is not only painful but also embarrassing. You will find it painful to wear narrow shoes and it is embarrassing to show your nails in public because they look unsightly. Although this isn't an alarming state of health, treating nail fungus is important to avoid embarrassment.

A fungal infection can infect other nails and tends to return. Dealing with nail fungus can be difficult if you don't know what to do. Here are some tips for treating nail fungus:

Prevent the fungus from spreading. When treating nail fungal infections, it is important to use personal care and good foot hygiene to prevent the infection from spreading and worsening. The warm, moist environment promotes the growth of mushrooms. Therefore, avoid shoes made of synthetic materials that promote sweating. Avoid tight-fitting shoes, but wear open shoes to ensure air circulation.

Drugs. There are antifungal creams and over-the-counter medications to treat fungal infections. Your doctor may recommend oral medications to stop the infection. When treating nail fungus, it is important that you take the medication under the supervision of your doctor, as oral antifungals can cause side effects such as liver problems and rashes.

Herbal treatment. Various natural oils are also important to stop nail fungus. Herbal or natural treatments have been around for ages because they are effective in treating various health problems without side effects. Herbal treatments are still used today.