Fungal spores can be found everywhere thanks to their small size and lightweight structure. When they land on an ideal place for germination, they grow into a fungi body and obtain nutrients from the substrate. These fungal bodies infest the area until they complete their life cycle and produce another batch of spores.
The majority of fungi species are generally harmless, but there are a few that can cause infections or diseases. This type of fungi is referred to as phytopathogenic, and it may cause acute conditions or even deadly allergic reactions. Below are some of the most prevalent fungal diseases and possible treatment options.
Fungal Nail Infection
Moulds or yeast trigger onychomycosis or fungal infection on the nail. It’s quite common among folks who have poor hygiene. Fungal spores from the soil or mouldy socks may enter cracks on your nail or skin and grow into full-blown fungal bodies if you fail to keep your hands or feet clean and dry.
This type of infection causes nail discolouration and cracking. If not treated quickly, it may cause painful lesions. Thankfully, you can easily purchase treatment for fungal nail infection from drugstores.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a type of fungal infection that affects the skin. The distinct ring-like shape rash on the skin is the tell-tale sign that you have a ringworm infection. Treatment for ringworm is available over the counter mainly if the rashes are limited to certain parts of the body such as the limbs, back, chest or face. If the rashes are on the scalp, your physician will prescribe antifungal medication like fluconazole, terbinafine and itraconazole.
Vaginal Candidiasis
Candida infection of the vagina is mostly referred to as vaginal yeast infection. Abnormal increase of candida population on the vagina causes itchiness, painful urination and sexual intercourse and increase of vaginal discharge.
Pregnant women, as well as those who have diabetes and use birth control pills, are prone to this type of fungal infection. Fluconazole is usually used to treat such kinds of infection.
You can also improve your condition by wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight legwear. Also, see to it that you take the prescription according to your doctor’s instructions; otherwise, the infection might progress and cause further problems.
Mouth, Throat, or Oesophagus Candidiasis
Candida is usually present inside the digestive tract. However, if its population exceed the normal range, it can result in health problems. Look out for symptoms such as white patches on the tongue and cheek, difficulty in perceiving tastes, painful swallowing, and cracking at the corners of your mouth.
Fungal infections range from mild to severe, depending on how early you treat them. The common diseases enumerated above, such as fungal nail infection, vaginal candidiasis, ringworm and mouth, throat or oesophagus candidiasis can be managed and treated with antifungal treatment.
If you suspect an infection, get in touch with your primary health care provider and have yourself checked. This way, you can determine the progress of the infection as well as the best course of action you should take.
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