Common skin conditions that range in severity from minor irritations to serious infections include fungus infections. The top multispecialty hospital in Siliguri, Star Hospital Siliguri, has dermatologist Dr. Anisha Najeeb, MD, who provides insightful information on the types, causes, treatments, and prevention of these illnesses. This site offers guidance from the best dermatologist in Siliguri on how to comprehend and treat fungal infections.
Why Do Fungal Infections Occur?
When fungi such as moulds, yeasts, or dermatophytes multiply on the skin, nails, or mucous membranes then it causes fungal diseases. Warm, humid conditions encourage their growth, so infections are common in areas like the feet, groin, and skin folds.
Common causes and risk factors include:
Climate: The humid climate in places like Siliguri fosters fungal growth, especially in skin folds and moist areas.
Hygiene Habits: Wearing damp clothing, sharing personal items, and improper hygiene can increase the risk of infection and causes fungal infections.
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with diabetes, cancer, or HIV/AIDS are more susceptible to fungal infections.
Medications: Prolonged antibiotics or steroid use can alter the body’s defenses, allowing fungi to grow.
Fungal Infection Types
Depending on the type of fungus and the affected location, different fungal diseases might present differently. Dr. Anisha Najeeb, a leading dermatologist in Siliguri, treats these infections.
The most prevalent kinds are as follows:
Athlete's foot or Tinea pedis
People who wear tight shoes or take public showers are more likely to get this fungal infection, which affects the feet, particularly in the space between the toes. Cracks in the skin, burning sensation in the affected area, and itching are some of the common symptoms of this infection.
Ringworm or Tinea corporis
The symptoms of ringworm includes severe skin itching and red, round lesions. Any portion of the body may be impacted, and it spreads by direct contact. Maintaining Proper hygiene is essential to prevent this infection.
Jock itching or Tinea cruris
The groin region is affected by jock itch, which results in red, irritating areas. Sweating, tight clothes, and moisture retention are the main causes of this prevalent condition in athletes.
Nail fungus or Onychomycosis
Finger and toe nails that have nail fungus become brittle, thick, and discoloured. Although nail fungus can be very challenging to treat and frequently takes time, it is unquestionably curable with the right diagnosis and care under the right dermatologist.
Candida Yeast Infections
Candida infections can affect, the mouth, vaginal area and other body parts. People who take particular drugs or have compromised immune systems are more vulnerable to such types of infections.
Options for Treating Fungal Infections
Treatments differ according on the nature and severity of the illness, Dr. Najeeb said. For individuals looking for a skin expert in Siliguri, Star Hospital Siliguri is a great option because it offers personalised treatments.
The main types of treatment include:
Topical Antifungals
Mild infections can be treated with creams, powders, or sprays containing clotrimazole, terbinafine, or miconazole, which are applied directly to the affected area.
Oral Antifungal Medications
For severe or widespread infections, especially nail infections, oral medications like itraconazole and fluconazole target internal infections. It is a very effective treatment method, but may have various side effects when used for a long period of time.
Anti-fungal Washes and Shampoos
Medicated anti-fungal shampoos help control fungal growth on the scalp and prevent infections from returning back again which is mostly recommended by doctors.
Lifestyle Modifications and Home Remedies
Dr. Najeeb advises using anti fungal powders, avoiding tight clothing, and keeping the affected areas as dry and possible. Changing one's lifestyle to include better hygiene and persistent use of antifungal treatments is crucial for infection control.
How to Avoid Fungal Infections
Prevention is always preferable to treatment, particularly when it comes to recurring fungal diseases.
Here are some preventative suggestions from Dr. Najeeb:
Keeping Yourself Clean
Fungal infections can be avoided by taking a bath on daily basis and making sure the skin is completely dry, especially in the wrinkles areas and between the toes.
Change Clothes everyday
Wearing clean clothes every day is important for maintaining good hygiene, especially for socks and underwear.
Put on Breathable Clothing
To prevent perspiration accumulation, always opt for loose-fitting, breathable materials like cotton. Materials that absorb moisture are particularly useful in humid settings.
Making use of anti-fungal powders.
Additional protection can be obtained by applying anti-fungal powders to infectious regions such as the groin and feet.
Exercise Caution in Public Areas
In communal areas like gyms and locker rooms, fungal infections are prevalent. When taking a shower in public, always wear flip-flops to prevent direct contact with possibly contaminated surfaces.
When to See a Dermatologist
Some fungal infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but persistent or recurring infections require medical attention. If home remedies don't improve symptoms, or if there’s an underlying condition like diabetes. When it comes to fungal diseases, Dr. Anisha Najeeb suggests consulting a dermatologist.
Dispelling a Few Frequently Held Myths Regarding Fungal Infections:
Dr. Najeeb dispels a few myths regarding fungal infections that people frequently hold:
Myth: Fungal infections only affect people who don't take care of themselves.
Truth: Anyone can get a fungal infection, especially in humid places like Siliguri, regardless of their hygiene.
Myth: It's easy for fungal infections to spread even if proper hygiene is maintained by a person.
Truth: While some fungal infections can spread, others cannot. In both the situations, maintaining proper hygiene is beneficial.
Myth: Infections caused by fungi resolve themselves.
Truth: Most infections need treatment; without it, they can worsen and become more challenging to manage.
Nutritional Advice for Treating Fungal Infections
To help lower the incidence of recurring fungal infections
Dr. Anisha Najeeb recommends the following dietary adjustments that can prove to be very helpful:
Limiting Sugar Intake: Since fungi love to prosper in sugary environment, cutting back on sugar may help avoid infections.
Eat Probiotics: Probiotics can stop fungal overgrowth by preserving the balance of bacteria.
Add turmeric and garlic, which are well-known for their inherent antifungal qualities and can strengthen immunity and ward against infections.
Why Pick Star Hospital Siliguri?
Star Hospital Siliguri provides latest dermatology care and is regarded as the top multispecialty hospital in Siliguri. One of Siliguri's leading dermatologists, Dr. Anisha Najeeb, offers her skilled diagnosis and treatment for fungal infections.
Conclusion
Fungal infections are common, but they can be prevented, treated, and detected early. Early treatment is crucial whether you have ringworm, athlete's foot, or a nail infection. For chronic complaints or recurring infections, Dr. Anisha Najeeb of Star Hospital Siliguri suggests seeing a Siliguri skin specialist. You may have healthy, infection-free skin with professional care and doable preventative measures.