Summer is a great time for outdoor activities, but it’s also the season when fungal infections thrive. These mild to severe infections can affect various parts of the body and cause discomfort, itching, and pain.

Knowing the symptoms and treatment options for these infections can help you prevent complications and enjoy a healthy, active summer.

What are fungal infections?

Fungal infections are caused by fungi, which are microorganisms that thrive in warm and moist environments. Fungi can be found in soil, water, and infected plants and animals.

When they come into contact with human skin, nails, or hair, they can cause infections that range from mild to severe.

Fungal infections are common in summer because of the warm and humid conditions that promote their growth. Some of the most common types of fungal infections that people experience during the summer include:.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet and toes. It can cause redness, itching, scaling, and blisters. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can spread through close contact with infected people or contaminated surfaces.

Wearing tight or damp shoes, walking barefoot in shared areas like pools and locker rooms, and having sweaty feet can increase the risk of developing athlete’s foot.

Ringworm

Ringworm is not caused by a worm, but by a fungus that can infect the skin, scalp, and nails. It can cause a circular rash with red or silver scales and a clear center.

Ringworm is contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected people, animals, or objects like combs, brushes, and clothes. Sweating, not changing clothes or towels regularly, and having weakened immunity can increase the risk of developing ringworm.

Jock itch

Jock itch is a fungal infection that affects the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks. It can cause a red, itchy rash with scaling and blisters.

Jock itch is more common in men than women and can spread through sexual activity, sharing contaminated towels or clothes, or using public showers or saunas. Wearing tight or wet clothing, having diabetes or obesity, and certain medications can increase the risk of developing jock itch.

Nail fungus

Nail fungus is a fungal infection that affects the nails of the hands and feet. It can cause thickening, discoloration, and crumbling of the nails, as well as pain and foul odor.

Nail fungus is common in people who have wet or sweaty feet, walk barefoot in public areas, or wear tight-fitting shoes. It can also be a complication of a previous injury or infection.

Yeast infection

Yeast infection is caused by a fungus called Candida that normally lives in the body. However, when its growth is not controlled, it can cause infections in various areas, such as the mouth, throat, skin, and genital area.

Yeast infection can cause itching, burning, and discharge, and can affect both men and women. Sweating, tight or damp clothing, weakened immunity, and certain medications can increase the risk of developing yeast infection.

How are fungal infections diagnosed?

If you suspect that you have a fungal infection, it’s important to see a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. The doctor may examine the affected area, take a sample of skin, hair, or nail, and send it to a lab for analysis.

Based on the results, the doctor can determine the type of fungus causing the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

How are fungal infections treated?

The treatment for fungal infections depends on the type and severity of the infection. In some cases, over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, or powders may be sufficient to relieve the symptoms and clear the infection.

However, for more severe or recurring infections, prescription-strength antifungal medications may be needed. These may come in the form of pills, topical creams, or injectables.

In addition to medication, there are several self-care measures that can help prevent and treat fungal infections, such as:.

Keeping the affected area clean and dry
Avoiding tight or wet clothing and sharing personal items
Wearing protective footwear in public areas
Using antifungal powder or spray in shoes and socks
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly to boost immunity
Taking probiotics or yogurt to restore the balance of gut flora

When to see a doctor?

If you have a fungal infection that persists or gets worse despite self-care measures, or if you develop new symptoms, such as fever, swelling, or draining wounds, you should see a doctor immediately.

These may be signs of a more serious infection that requires prompt medical attention, such as cellulitis, a bacterial infection that can spread quickly and cause tissue damage.

Preventing fungal infections

Prevention is key when it comes to fungal infections. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of developing a fungal infection:.

Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating, such as the feet, groin, and armpits.
Wear loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, and avoid wearing tight or synthetic clothing, which can trap moisture.
Avoid walking barefoot in public areas, such as pools, gyms, and locker rooms, and wear protective sandals or shoes.
Don’t share personal items, such as towels, combs, and clothes, with others, especially if they have a fungal infection.
Use antifungal powder or spray in your shoes and socks, and change them regularly.
Eat a healthy diet that includes probiotics, such as yogurt and kefir, to boost your immunity and prevent yeast overgrowth.
If you have diabetes or other medical conditions that weaken your immunity, follow your doctor’s recommendations for preventing infections.

Conclusion

Fungal infections can be a nuisance, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, they can be cured or prevented.

By recognizing the symptoms and risk factors of fungal infections, and taking care of your skin and hygiene, you can enjoy a healthy and active summer without worries.