Fungal infections are common. They come in several different forms and can attack people of all ages. Here’s how they do it. Fungi are transferred by close contact, so from body to body or from an infected surface such as a garment of clothing or a wet floor.
All parts of the body can be infected, but it’s usually moist, warm areas, that provide the ideal conditions for fungi to thrive, where infections are most common.
Athlete’s foot and jock itch are types of ‘tinea’, a fungal infection of the hair, skin, or nails. Tinea typically include various degrees of itching and burning. The skin may frequently peel, and in particularly severe cases, there may be some cracking, pain, and bleeding as well. Some people have no symptoms at all and do not know they have an infection. When it comes into contact with the skin, tinea usually begins as a small red area the size of a pea. As it grows, it spreads out in a circle or ring. It’s often referred to as ringworm due to its circular appearance, but there is actually no link any kind of worm.
Nappy rash is caused by candida, which is a yeast (similar to a fungus). It most often affects the skin around the nails or the soft, moist areas around body openings. Babies are particularly affected because it’s difficult to maintain a clean, dry environment around their nappies.
Fungal infections are usually not serious and, treated properly and efficiently, are relatively easy to clear up. Often, it is best to prevent the spread of infection before treatment is necessary. If you’re unsure about an infection, it’s always best to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Dual action
Hydrozole
1. eases the inflammation
Hydrocortisone acts to relieve the inflammation caused by a fungal infection, to reduce the redness, ease the irritation and stop that maddening itch.
2. tackles the infection
Clotrimazole is the antifungal ingredient that fights the infection itself by getting rid of the fungi and stopping it spreading any further.
What does
it all mean?
Is tinea the same as athlete’s foot? Is jock itch a form of ringworm, or is that something else? Our Glossary clears up the confusion...
