Monsoons, with their refreshing showers, often bring along unwelcome visitors — fungal infections. The combination of high humidity and damp conditions makes it an ideal breeding ground for fungi, affecting various parts of our body. Let’s delve deeper into the most common fungal infections and ways to combat them.
Understanding the Ringworm Infection
Contrary to its name, the Ringworm infection, technically called ‘Tinea,' isn’t caused by worms. It manifests as a glaring red rash forming a circular pattern around normal-looking skin, causing intense itching and discomfort.
Tinea Corporis: Typically initiating in areas like underarms, breasts, and buttocks, this skin infection can easily spread across the body.
Tinea Capitis: An ailment primarily affecting children, this targets the scalp. It’s marked by itchy, red patches, potentially causing bald spots.
Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): As the name suggests, it affects the feet. Symptoms include itching, burning, and cracking of the skin, especially between toes.
Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): This targets the groin area, leading to itching and burning rashes.
Besides these, a notable mention is Onychomycosis. It’s a fungal infection that preys on nails, especially toenails, turning them brittle, discoloured, and prone to cracking.
Pinpointing the Causes
So, what makes us susceptible to these fungal invasions during the monsoon?
Humidity: Fungi love warm and moist environments. The heightened humidity during monsoons promotes fungal growth, especially in damp areas such as underarms, groins, and buttocks.
Contact: Physical contact with an infected person or pet, or using contaminated items like towels, bedding, or footwear, can increase the risk of infection.
Weakened Immunity: Those with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable to fungal infections.
Effective Treatment and Management
Managing and treating fungal infections necessitates a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions.
Appropriate Clothing: Opt for loose, breathable cotton clothes. This reduces sweating and minimizes moisture retention on the skin.
Hygiene: Shower immediately after any activity leading to excessive sweating. This helps keep the skin clean and reduces the chances of fungal growth.
Dusting Powder: Use a quality dusting powder to keep areas like underarms and groins dry.
Prompt Medical Attention: Start anti-fungal treatment as soon as symptoms appear. This can be in the form of creams or oral medications. Ensure to complete the prescribed duration to avoid a relapse.
Family Treatment: Treating all family members, even if they aren’t showing symptoms, is crucial to prevent the recurrence of the condition.
Daily Changes: Make it a practice to change underwear and socks daily. It’s essential to maintain personal hygiene during monsoons.
Footwear Care: Regularly wash and sun dry your shoes. When indoors, prefer going barefoot or wearing open sandals to allow your feet to breathe.
Beware of OTC Products: Refrain from using over-the-counter creams or those suggested by non-medical individuals. These could potentially worsen the condition.
To conclude, while monsoons offer a refreshing respite from the summer heat, they also bring along challenges. Armed with the right knowledge and being vigilant about one’s hygiene can ensure you enjoy the rains without the menace of fungal infections. Always remember, when in doubt, seek medical advice. Don’t let fungi dampen your monsoon spirit!
(Dr Vandana Punjabi, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital)
