Skin Fungal Infection
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Fungal infections of the skin is a common problem includes athlete foot, ring worm infections, toe nail fungus. These can be treated with proper care.
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Athlete's foot (Tinea pedis) and ringworm of the body (Tinea corporis) are examples of skin conditions caused by a group of fungus like organisms. Tinea infections are highly contagious and can be acquired from people, animals, soil, wet places (such as showers and swimming pools) and household objects. They usually don't clear up without treatment.
Certain types of tinea, the fungus responsible for athlete's foot and ringworm of the body or scalp, thrive in warm, moist area, such as the skin between the toes, beneath the breast and in the groin area (Tinea cruris, or 'jock itch'). Symptoms include a red, itchy rash. The affected skin then peels and may become very sore. The fungal spores are spread through contact with infected animals and humans.
Ringworm is associated with circular patches of white, itchy skin with a well defined red margin hence its name. (Contrary to popular belief, it is not caused by worms). It most often affects the trunk and scalp. Ringworm of the scalp (Tinea capitis) occurs mainly in children and cause round, itchy, bald patches. Candida albicans, yeast like fungus, can also affected the skin and is associated with the flaking of the scalp known as dandruff.
Prevention:
Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist conditions, so dry your skin properly after washing, especially in hot weather. To prevent athlete's foot or ringworm from spreading, have family members use individual, frequently laundered towels and face washes, and make sure that those with an infection wash their hands after touching affected areas.
For athlete's foot:
- Change your shoes and socks daily. Give your footwear time to air out thoroughly between each wearing.
- Use foot powder to help keep sweaty feet dry.
- Wear socks made of natural fibers that absorb moisture or those designed to draw moisture away from the foot. Allow your feet to 'breathe' by choosing shoes , made of leather or another natural material, or with ventilation holes if the material, are synthetic.
- Always wear footwear around swimming pools, in public changing rooms or in any other place where people who might have athlete's foot walk barefoot.
For ringworm:
Vacuum carpets and upholstery frequently if you have pets. This will help to minimize the risk of catching a ringworm infection from infected animals.
Fungus skin Treatment:
Herbal remedies for fungal infections:
- Apply burdock or marigold (calendula) tea or diluted chamomile tincture to the affected areas twice a day.
Apply diluted tincture of myrrh (avoid if you are pregnant) or Echinacea three times a day.
- Drink a cup of tea made with a mixture of Echinacea, nettles, dandelion root, burdock and peppermint once or twice a day. This boosts immunity and helps counter infection.
Home remedies for fungal infections:
- Soak a piece of cotton in honey and secure with a bandage to the sore area. Leave on overnight. This soothes the skin and speeds the healing process.
- Use apple cider vinegar in the same way. (It stings when first applied).
- Rub crushed garlic over the sore area each day to help combat the infection.
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