Fungi are all around us, in the air and often landing on our skin. There are many different kinds of fungi, some of which can result in a skin or nail infection. Fungal infections are extremely common, affecting about one out of four people at any given time. While most fungal skin infections can be relieved with over-the-counter medications, and severe or frequent infections may require medical treatment. Our team at MJR Dermatology offers effective fungal infection treatment options at our clinic in Lawrenceville, GA.
What Causes Fungal Infections?
Even though you may come in contact with fungi and yeast all the time, your body is designed to fight off infections. It is when your immune system is compromised, or the right environment occurs that fungal infections are more common. Fungi seek warm, moist environments to thrive, more commonly occurring on the feet, groin area and within folds of skin. Some of the common types of fungal infections include:
- Ringworm
- Nail fungal infections
- Athlete’s foot
- Diaper rash
- Jock itch
These infections often spread from person to person. If you use the same shower as someone else with athlete’s foot, you can obtain the same infection. Symptoms of skin fungal infections include red, itchy patches of skin or rashes. Nail fungal infections can cause discolored nails and thickened nails that can result in the loss of the nail if not treated.
Relief from Fungal and Yeast Skin Infections
If you have ongoing yeast or fungal infections, you may require prescription medication to mitigate your symptoms. Many people experience recurrent fungal infections that cause itchy rashes and damage to the skin or nails. There are topical and oral medications that can help control these infections, along with lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk of future infections. With fungal infections, it is vital that any treatment prescribed is completed fully – stopping the medication too soon, even if the symptoms subside, can result in the infection returning.
To learn more about treatment options for skin or nail fungal infections, come see us at MJR Dermatology. Contact our team at our medical center in Lawrenceville, GA, to schedule a fungal infection examination and treatment consultation.