Cracked feet? Red? Burning? Itchy? It could be a fungal infection. A fungal infection can form on different parts of your body. Fungi are reproduced by spreading microscopic spores. These spores are present in soil, air and wherever it can be inhaled or come into contact with your body, and specifically your skin or lungs.
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Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that usually causes cracked, red and itchy skin between your toes. You may also develop red, dry and cracked skin and bumps on the bottom and sides of your feet. You could also develop thick and discoloured toenails.
Candida is yeast which is similar to fungus. This fungal infection usually affects the skin around your nails or soft moist areas and body openings. Common kinds of candidal infections would be diaper rash in babies, or thrush (white patches around the mouth). Females may develop candida infections in and around the vagina called a yeast infection.
Jock itch is a fungal infection on the groin and upper thighs which affects both men and women. Jock itch is common in people who play sports, who sweat a lot. It usually appears as a rash and feels itchy with a burning sensation.
Tinea (ringworm) affects your skin, hair and/or nails. When it’s on your skin it usually starts as a small red area and as it grows, spreads into a circle or ring. It’s often called ringworm because it may look like tiny worms under your skin.
Pityriasis versicolor is also caused by yeast. It makes lots of round and oval-shaped flat, pale patches on your skin, especially the chest, upper arms, and sometimes the face and neck.
Say farewell to fungus
Walk away from athlete’s foot
- Dry your feet properly, especially between your toes.
- Always wear clean socks and change damp socks as soon as possible.
- Use foot powder to reduce sweating.
- Always wear sandals or shower shoes when using public pools, toilets or showers.
Ditch the jock itch
- Dry your body properly (including your groin area) after washing yourself.
- Wear loose-fitting pants.
- Keep your groin area clean and dry.
Prevent yeast infections
- Wear cotton underwear as it helps to keep your groin area dry.
- Clean your vagina and groin area often.
- Change out of wet swimming costumes as soon as possible.
- Avoid using scented hygiene products.
Avoid ringworms
- Don’t share personal items like towels and brushes.
- Wash your hands often.
- Stay cool and dry.
Keep pityriasis away
- Keep your skin dry and clean.
- Use anti-dandruff shampoo at least once a month.
Good to know
- If you suspect you may have a fungal infection speak to your doctor immediately.
- Fungal infections are usually easy to treat with special antifungal creams, shampoos and medicine.
- Make sure you take the medicine for as long as your doctor tells you as your fungal infection might come back if it isn’t treatment properly.
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