Fungal Infections

Fungal infections are caused by fungi — microscopic organisms that include yeasts and moulds. Most fungal infections affect the skin, hair, or nails, and are mild but annoying. India's hot, humid climate — especially during and after the monsoon — makes fungal skin infections extremely common.

Common fungal infections

• Ringworm (tinea corporis) — itchy ring-shaped patches on the body
• Jock itch (tinea cruris) — in the groin; more common in men, especially in hot weather
• Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) — between the toes; itchy, flaky, sometimes painful
• Tinea capitis — scalp ringworm, causing patchy hair loss, mostly in children
• Pityriasis versicolor — discoloured patches on chest, back, shoulders
• Candidiasis (yeast infection) — diaper rash in babies, thrush in the mouth, vaginal yeast infections, and infections in skin folds
• Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) — thick, discoloured, brittle nails
• Deeper or invasive fungal infections — uncommon but serious, usually in people with weakened immunity

When to see a doctor

• The infection is spreading despite treatment
• Over-the-counter antifungal creams haven't helped after 2 weeks
• Infection on the scalp or nails
• You have diabetes, weakened immunity, or the infection is severe or painful
• Recurrent infections
• Any signs of deeper infection — fever, systemic illness

Treatment and prevention

• Topical antifungals for most skin infections — creams, powders, or shampoos used for weeks
• Oral antifungals — for scalp, nail, or stubborn infections
• Keep skin clean and dry — fungi thrive in moisture
• Change out of sweaty clothes promptly; dry well in skin folds
• Wear loose, cotton clothing in hot weather
• Don't share towels, clothing, or combs
• Treat athlete's foot to prevent nail and groin infections
• Manage diabetes well

In India, there is significant fungal drug resistance in some regions — a doctor's prescription and proper-duration treatment matter more than short courses of over-the-counter creams.