Fungal Skin Infection

Reviewed by Dr Claudia Pastides, 24th April 2019

Fungal infections are very common skin conditions that can affect both children and adults alike. Some of the most frequently occurring fungal skin infections include ringworm, intertrigo, athlete’s foot and tinea capitis. Though the symptoms of these infections can be unpleasant and irritating, they’re rarely dangerous, and can be treated easily with the appropriate topical cream or oral medications. Speak to a GP today if you are worried that you might have a fungal skin infection.

Causes of fungal infections

Fungal infections are highly contagious and can be transmitted from person to person very easily, but they can also be found in communal spaces. Fungus breeds well in damp, warm conditions, so places like leisure centres, swimming pools, children’s soft play areas and shared bathrooms can be full of fungus if they are not cleaned properly.

Symptoms of fungal skin infections

The most common and noticeable symptom of a fungal skin infection is itching. You may experience itching before you see any kind of rash that shows an infection is present. Some fungal infections are accompanied by clear physical symptoms - for example, ringworm infections cause a ring-shaped rash that is slightly raised. Many of the symptoms will also be restricted to a certain area of the body - for example, tinea capitis affects only the scalp, while athlete’s foot, as the name suggests, affects only the feet.

Treatment for fungal skin infections

There are a multitude of treatments available to kill off fungal infections and help you recover quickly. The type of treatment you receive will depend on the type and the severity of the fungal skin infection that you’re suffering from. Tinea capitis, for example, may require a medicated shampoo to be applied every two or three days, while ringworm anywhere else on the body may require a topical cream to be applied multiple times each day.

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The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of a doctor with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never delay seeking or disregard professional medical advice because of something you have read here.