So, what is a fungal infection? It is a disease caused by fungi, the number of which is very numerous in nature. Today there are more than 200 different species of mushrooms. Where do fungi live and how does a person become infected?
Fungi are widespread in the environment. They live in the soil, on plants, live on animals, and there is even a species of saprophytic fungus that happily coexists with us, that is, lives on human skin. Human pathogenic fungi that affect the skin are called dermatophytes, and the diseases are called dermatomycosis.
Infection can occur in 2 ways: direct infection through contact with soil, plants, a sick animal or a sick person; indirect - in contact with various things and objects used by patients, also through animal care items.
Why does a fungal infection occur?
Susceptibility to fungal infections is determined by many factors: weather conditions (hot season), the state of the immune system, the condition of the skin and the presence of concomitant diseases. Age, gender and professional factors also matter. Most often, of course, the manifestation of the disease occurs in the warm season, after returning from the seas, where a hot and humid climate reigns, accompanied by increased sweating.
These factors are particularly favorable to the introduction of pathogenic fungi and the passage of saprophytes into pathogenic flora.
What are the types of fungal infections?
There are mainly 4 groups of fungal diseases:
They are quite superficial, because they affect the stratum corneum and the cuticles of the hair, without causing inflammatory reactions and do not affect the appendages (hair, nails). The most common disease in this group is tinea versicolor or pityriasis versicolor. It manifests itself by the appearance of café-au-lait spots, mainly on the chest, back and shoulder girdle.
This is a large group of fungal diseases that affect the skin, hair and nails. The most common disease in this group is athlete's foot or foot fungus. The disease is very common among the adult population - approximately 80% of them have it.
Treatment of shoes, treatment of manicure and pedicure scissors with special antifungal agents, in the form of solutions and sprays, play an important role in the prevention of fungal diseases.
It is also important to combat excessive sweating of the skin of the feet, if necessary. For treatment, depending on severity.
The course and extent of the process require local and systemic antifungal treatment.
In recent years, a modern method has been successfully used in the treatment of fungal nail diseases (onychomycosis): laser treatment of onychomycosis.
Prevention of fungal diseases
Fungal diseases, also called mycoses, are infectious diseases caused by pathogenic fungi.
Fungal infections can affect a wide variety of organs. In this case, the symptoms can be very different depending on the affected organ and the type of fungus. There are many types of fungal infections, but forms that affect the skin and nails are the most common. Mycoses are contagious diseases and are transmitted from person to person.
Fungal diseases can appear on any part of the human body: on the torso, on the limbs, on the scalp, on the palms of the hands, on the soles of the feet, between the fingers, in the groin and evenon facing it.
If a fungal disease is detected in a family member, all family members should be carefully checked, and if it is a child, also those who care for the sick child. It is also necessary to carefully check children entering orphanages, nurseries, schools and similar institutions for the presence of fungal diseases.
It is especially important to examine schoolchildren before leaving and after arriving from summer camps.
If you suspect the presence of yeast infections, you should consult a dermatologist and get tested for fungus. Before the consultation, it is best to cut your hair short, this makes it much easier to recognize fungal infections.
At the slightest suspicion of a fungal disease in a child, he should be prohibited from attending school or kindergarten. Immediately after confirmation of the diagnosis, treatment should be initiated; under no circumstances should the patient come into contact with healthy children.
Any object touched by the patient may be contaminated and pose a risk of transmission of infection or reinfection to the patient themselves. Each of these items must be disinfected or destroyed. Clothes are disinfected in a steam-formaldehyde or steam-air chamber. Bed linen is disinfected by boiling for 20 minutes.
Prevention of fungal diseases in hairdressing salons, baths and showers should be carried out regularly, at intervals of no more than 3 months. Metal objects should be carefully disinfected with dry heat, other objects in steam chambers and formalin.
Prevention of mycoses in animals is of great importance, since humans are very often infected with trichophytosis and microsporia from animals.
It is necessary to create hygienic livestock yards and veterinary inspection services on collective farms.
People who have been in contact with sick animals are advised to follow hygiene rules and monitor the condition of their skin, as they can become a source of spread of infection, both among humans and amonganimals.
Cats and dogs can carry fluffy microsporum, which causes the disease microsporia. Animals suspected of carrying a fungal infection should be transferred to special veterinary facilities, but they should never simply be kicked out as they will spread the infection. But there are also known cases where the carriers were rats and mice.
Preventive measures are necessary to reduce the risk of infection of healthy people, so as not to turn them into carriers of a fungal infection. Systematic disinfection of premises is one of the most important points of the prevention approach. It is carried out with a five percent chloramine solution, then everything is washed with a five percent soap solution.
Fungal skin lesions
Fungal skin infections are quite common diseases. Can affect any part of the body. To avoid illness, sanitary and hygienic rules must be followed. Treatment of fungus is a complex process, so do not delay your visit to the doctor.
Preparations for the prevention of foot fungus
Foot fungus is an infectious disease that is accompanied by the appearance of blisters, peeling, itching, cracks, etc. To prevent the disease, you should maintain good foot hygiene and use antifungal medications.
Treatment of skin fungus
Skin fungi, or yeast infections, often occur in people with weakened immune systems. Affecting the skin, the disease often becomes chronic, reducing the body's resistance capacity. There are different types of mycoses, treatment must be carried out individually.
Fungal diseases of the male genitals
A separate type of male diseases are fungal diseases of the male genital organs, characterized by specific transmission - exclusively through sexual contact. It is therefore extremely important to pay attention to your health and practice prevention.
Prevention of fungal diseases. Methods for primary prevention of mycoses
In order to prevent infection with a pathogenic fungus, you must follow several rules:
- Maintain personal hygiene. All contact in public places must end with hand disinfection. To do this, simply wash your hands well or apply an antiseptic solution.
- Public places should be visited with caution. Saunas, toilets, showers and baths are a "fertile ground" for the proliferation of pathogenic microflora. Avoid contact with surfaces located in such areas.
- Avoid contact with infected people or animals. This also applies to objects used by patients.
The first sensations of discomfort on the skin or its appendages should not be ignored. It is best to consult a specialist who will determine the cause and can prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Causes of the development of foot fungus
Foot fungus is a skin lesion caused by parasitic fungi. A very common disease among the population. The surface of the foot and its back, the interdigital space and the nails are affected.
The causative agent is the Trichophyton fungus, which exists in two varieties. The first is a red trichophyton, the second is interdigital. The latter type is the most common. According to the WHO, up to 30% of people in developed countries suffer from dermatomycosis of the skin of the feet. This is associated with the constant wearing of shoes, which creates the most favorable conditions for the development of foot fungus.
Causes of mycosis
The infection is transmitted mainly by contact - through personal belongings and household items. Horny particles of skin, contaminated with spores of pathogenic strains of fungi, are a direct source of infection for others.
Microorganisms multiply more intensively in a humid environment. Walking barefoot in public places - baths, saunas, showers - creates preconditions for infection with mycosis.
Penetrating into microcracks, abrasions and diaper rash of human skin, spores develop in the threadlike body of the fungus - mycelium. It penetrates deep into the epidermis, creating lesions.
The causes of the development of mycoses are:
- reduced immunity due to chronic diseases;
- diabetes;
- varicose veins, thrombophlebitis;
- age over 60 years.
These factors reduce the protective functions of the skin, thus paving the way for the penetration of pathogens. At risk are metalworkers, miners, military personnel and athletes – all those who, due to their duty or working conditions, are obliged to wear waterproof and vapor-resistant footwear at all times.
Intrafamilial fungal infections of the feet are common. Proximity to an infected family member is the shortest route of transmission of a harmful fungal disease.
Symptoms of a fungal infection
Fungal foot diseases are manifested by various signs of skin destruction. Depending on the nature of the skin lesions, we distinguish the forms of mycosis:
- Cleared. The surface of the foot peels, diaper rash appears between the toes. The itching is minor. Often, patients do not attach any importance to it, considering the symptoms of the fungus as irritation or use ineffective home treatment methods.
- Squamous-hyperkeratic. This shape is also called "moccasin foot" because of the rough and thick leather of the sole, covered with cracks. The damage to the skin is significant - it peels off in large scales, its color is gray-yellow. There is pain when walking, unpleasant smell. The disease most often affects older people.
- Moist (vesicular, dehydrotic). Its particularity is the formation of small pink bubbles, which melt over time into large bubbles. The disease begins at the arch of the foot, then spreads to the entire foot and toes. When the bubbles burst, they form foci of erosion. The skin swells and itches.
- Intertriginous. Characterized by damage to the interdigital space. The skin loosens, becomes moist and swells. Severe itching and burning appear. Over time, deep, painful cracks form, hindering normal walking.
- Spicy. Severe form of mycosis. It is characterized by fever, inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes, swelling of the feet and legs. The feet become covered with blisters containing serous-purulent contents. After their opening, oozing erosions form, causing serious physical suffering to the patient.
Pathogenic fungi, feeding on the cells of the human body, release toxins that poison the body. The protective function of the skin and general immunity decrease. Lesions are open doors to bacterial and viral infections. Treatment of fungi is a necessary condition for maintaining normal health and well-being.
Diagnosis of foot fungus
Diagnosis and treatment of fungal foot diseases is carried out by a dermatologist and mycologist. Determination of the type of fungus is carried out by laboratory methods - studying tissue samples under a microscope. A cultural method for determining the type of pathogen is to place the inoculated material in a nutrient medium. At the same time, the causes of mycoses are being determined. Perform HIV, blood sugar and STD testing.
Based on the results obtained, the doctor makes a diagnosis and prescribes treatment. It can be monotherapy or complex treatment using external agents and tablets.
How to treat athlete's foot
Ringworm treatment is successful when the patient takes medications and procedures responsibly. Modern drugs have a beneficial effect on the liver and effectively destroy the mycelium of pathological forms of the fungus.
For wet forms of the fungus, the wounds are first dried using a solution of potassium permanganate, brilliant green, iodine or boric acid. In the treatment of this type of mycosis, medications containing corticosteroids are indispensable. The "moccasin foot" is cleaned of keratinized layers by wrapping with salicylic acid. They soften rough skin, easy to clean after the procedure.
Treatment with folk remedies for foot fungus
Homemade formulations in the form of:
- foot baths;
- ointments;
- lotions;
- compress.
- decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs.
Baths last 15 to 20 minutes. The solution is prepared with the addition of acids - acetic, boric or a mixture of salt and soda. They soften the stratum corneum well. After the procedure, dry the foot and lubricate it with birch tar. After an hour and a half, remove the remaining medicine with a napkin. Course – 3 to 5 times. Onions and garlic in the form of compresses disinfect the surface of the feet well. Used in mixtures with oils. For minor skin lesions, a decoction of oak bark, juices of celandine, lemon and essential oils of tea tree or fir are effective.
Important. Folk remedies have no contraindications, but their use is more effective in combination with drug treatment.
Consequences of foot fungus
Like any infectious disease, ringworm affects the cells of the human body. Penetrating into the thickness of the skin and nourishing itself with its components, the mycelium develops in the epithelial layers. This does not go unnoticed by the body. Local and general immunity decreases. Allergic reactions may occur and asthmatic manifestations may intensify. Bacterial and viral infections enter open wounds. Fungal infections can be accompanied by more serious illnesses.
Important. Foot fungus creates a danger both for the wearer of the dermatophyte and for their immediate environment. People in poor health are most susceptible to fungal diseases. It is necessary to cure the fungus to protect yourself and others.
Foot fungus prevention
The main preventive measures should be aimed at:
- avoid contact with possible sources of fungal infection;
- maintain personal hygiene;
- maintain a healthy lifestyle;
- treatment of chronic diseases.
If signs of foot fungus appear, you should consult a specialist doctor and carry out the prescribed treatment. If preventive measures are taken, cases of return of fungal disease of the skin of the legs are quite rare.
Fungal infection in the body: symptoms and treatment
The human body is inhabited by numerous viruses, fungi and bacteria. All of these microorganisms can be beneficial, opportunistic or pathogenic. Additionally, the latter two types do not cause harm as long as a certain balance is maintained between the microorganisms.
Fungal infection
The human body is inhabited by numerous viruses, fungi and bacteria. All of these microorganisms can be beneficial, opportunistic or pathogenic. Additionally, the latter two types do not cause harm as long as a certain balance is maintained between the microorganisms.
The greatest danger is represented by a fungus - a microorganism that can damage the skin and internal organs of a person. There are approximately 500 species of fungi responsible for mycoses in humans. What fungal infections can cause serious illness in humans and what treatment methods are used to get rid of pathogenic microorganisms?
Types of mushrooms
All fungi that can live in the human body are divided into several types:
- yeast;
- moldy;
- domiphoric.
Fungi are multicellular
Yeasts live in the human body and are part of its microflora. They belong to opportunistic species, since they do not pose a threat to health, provided that the balance is maintained. All other types of fungi are pathogenic and pose a real threat to human health and life.
Fungi can multiply both on the surface of the skin and nails and inside the body. However, a healthy person is usually not affected by a fungal infection because it is destroyed by cells of the immune system. Therefore, the most favorable conditions for the functioning of the fungus are created in the body of people whose immunity is weakened.
Characteristics of skin mycosis
The skin very often suffers from fungal infections. Moreover, it spares neither women, nor men, nor children. This disease is divided into several main groups:
- athlete's foot;
- dermatomycosis;
- sporotrichosis;
- candidiasis;
- trichophytosis.
Athlete's foot is a fungal disease caused by fungi of the genus Epidermophyton. It most often affects men. In the case of athlete's foot, not only the upper layer of the skin is affected, but also the nails.
There are two forms of this disease:
- inguinal athlete's foot;
- athlete's foot.
Dermatomycoses are an entire group of fungal skin infections that affect one in five people on the planet. In this case, mycosis can develop not only on the skin, but also in internal organs.
Sporotrichosis is a chronic fungal disease caused by fungi of the genus Sporotririchium. Infection occurs through contact with grass, shrubs, soil, street dust and even food. In this case, the skin and subcutaneous tissue are most often affected. The mucous membranes and internal organs are very rarely exposed to the fungus.
Candidiasis is caused by yeasts of the genus Candida. These microorganisms are part of a healthy microflora and perform important functions in the human body. However, when favorable conditions are created, Candida fungi begin to actively multiply, disrupting the bacterial balance, which leads to the development of candidiasis. Most often, candidiasis or thrush appears in the vagina in women and in the mouth in children.
Causes of fungal infection
The development of a fungal infection is facilitated by contact with a source of fungi. For example, their spores can be found in the air, on the ground, or in bird droppings. At the same time, to reproduce, fungi need a special environment, created when the protective functions of the body are reduced.
Although athlete's foot can affect anyone, certain populations are most susceptible to developing the condition.
These include:
- people who have undergone organ transplant operations;
- cancer patients, as well as people who have undergone chemotherapy and radiotherapy;
- people suffering from diabetes and lung diseases.
Fungus can grow on the surface of the skin. But the favorite places for dislocation are skin folds, folds of arms and legs, that is, all places where humidity and body temperature are high. The yeast infection can spread to a small area, such as between the fingers or toes. But some fungi are capable of infecting deep layers of tissue. If a yeast infection grows in the lungs, it enters the bloodstream, leading to damage to internal organs.
Coccidioidomycosis
This disease is caused by fungi of the genus Coccidioides imitus, which live in the soil. This microorganism is common in the drier regions of America, Africa and Mexico. It enters other countries with the goods supplied by those countries.
Signs of coccidioidomycosis
The first symptoms of the disease resemble ARVI and inflammatory processes in the lungs and bronchi. The presence of fungus is indicated by the following signs:
- slight increase in body temperature;
- chills;
- headache;
- Feeling tired;
- general weakness of the body.
Later, these symptoms are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath and a dry cough. A few weeks after the pulmonary manifestations of the disease, the patient develops skin rashes in the form of papules or nodules resembling warts.
Histoplasmosis
This disease is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which most commonly affects the lungs. In some cases, the fungus spreads to other organs, which, if left untreated, leads to the death of the patient. People with AIDS are susceptible to the disease because of the vulnerability of their immune systems.
Signs of histoplasmosis
The acute form of the disease is most often asymptomatic, which complicates its diagnosis and delays the initiation of treatment. In severe cases, patients experience the following symptoms:
- increase in body temperature up to 40°-41°C
- chills followed by profuse sweating;
- severe headache and muscle pain;
- chest pain;
- dry cough;
- general weakness.
If left untreated, the disease becomes chronic.
Features of treatment of fungal infections
Treatment of any fungal infection involves internal administration of antimycotic drugs, as well as symptomatic treatment to improve the general condition of the patient. In severe forms of the disease, medications are administered intravenously. The duration of treatment depends on the type of fungal infection and the severity of the disease. Generally, it ranges from 1 to 3 months. Additionally, patients are prescribed medications that strengthen the body's immune system.
Preventive actions
The fungus is an insidious and difficult to destroy microorganism. This makes it easier to prevent any infection. First of all, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system, which will allow it to independently fight any pathogens.
It is also recommended to respect the following rules:
- maintain personal hygiene, wash your hands before eating, after each visit to the toilet and in public places;
- wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly;
- animal feed must undergo prolonged heat treatment;
- eat rationally, minimizing the consumption of simple carbohydrates and sugar;
- monitor body weight;
- take antibacterial and hormonal drugs only as prescribed by a doctor;
- use condoms during sex.
It is very important, if you notice several signs of fungal infection, to consult a doctor and undergo a complete body examination.
Modern dermatology has a number of antifungal drugs that are harmful to the fungus and non-toxic to the human body. They exist in different dosage forms: for local and systemic use.