Know about Fungal Skin Infections (2 of 2)

Fungal Skin Infections (Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment)

(i) Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections

The symptoms and appearance of a fungal skin infection depend on the type of fungus that has caused it. They will also depend on which part of your body is affected. Fungal rashes are sometimes confused with other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.

Fungal skin infections can cause a variety of different skin rashes. Some are red, scaly and itchy. Others may produce a fine scale, similar to dry skin. The fungus can affect just one area, or several areas of your body. If you get a fungal infection of your scalp, you may lose some hair.

If you have any of these symptoms, see your GP for advice.

(ii) Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections

Your GP will ask about your symptoms and examine you. He or she may also ask you about your medical history.

Your GP will usually diagnose fungal skin infections by looking at the appearance of your skin and the location of any rash. He or she may take a scrape of your skin or a fragment of your nail or hair. Your GP will send this sample to a laboratory for testing to confirm the diagnosis.

(iii) Treatment of Fungal Skin Infections

Self-help

Your GP will advise you to make sure you dry the affected area thoroughly after washing, especially in the folds of your skin.

Medicines

You will usually need to use an antifungal treatment that you put directly onto the affected area of your skin. These are known as topical treatments. There are a variety of treatments available in the form of creams, lotions, paints, shampoos and medicated powders. Some of these are available over the counter from a pharmacist, without prescription. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine and if you have any questions, ask your pharmacist for advice.

If you have a rash that covers a large area of your skin or affects your nails or scalp, you may need to take tablets. Your GP may also prescribe you tablets if you have used a topical treatment that hasn’t worked. These treatments can occasionally cause side-effects, which include skin irritation and stomach problems.

Your symptoms may return, even if they seem to have cleared up. It's important to continue with your treatment for up to two weeks after your symptoms disappear.

You may need to take some treatments for a few weeks, or up to four to 12 months for toenail infections.