Fungal infections are skin conditions that are caused by bacteria. There is always bacteria and fungi that live on the skin, but sometimes they start to multiply causing blisters, sores, burning, and inflammation. Fungal infections on skin and nails are easily treated. But if they are left untreated, bigger problems can occur. If you start to notice any symptoms of an infection, then contact Dr. Krathen at Essential Dermatology to get a treatment plan started.
What Causes Fungal Infections?
This condition is typically caused by yeast and dermatophytes. Both types of bacteria can cause infections on the body. Yeast infections can affect the skin, nails, mouth, vagina, and gut. This bacteria lives on the skin but can multiply. If an infection occurs in the nails, then this can result in painful swelling. If it is left untreated, the nail could separate from the nailbed. Dermatophyte is a fungus which lives in dead tissues such as skin cells or nails. If a dermatophyte multiplies it can cause blisters and a scaly rash. When nails are affected, they can become thick, split, or fall from the nailbed.
People typically get fungal infections when they have skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection. Also, people can get them when walking barefoot in warm, moist climates. Some people even get them from re-wearing sweaty clothes. Common types of skin infections are athletes’ foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
Symptoms of Fungal Infections
- Peeling
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning
- Scabs
- Blisters
- Sores
- Nail Discoloration
- Separation of Nails
Treatments for Fungal Infections
Typically, fungal infections are treated with medications like antifungal powder, creams, and hydrocortisone. If you are experiencing symptoms of infection, then come see Dr. Krathen to get a proper diagnosis. If you have a history of cancer, diabetes, HIV, or other chronic diseases, you are more likely to contract some type of fungal infection.
Schedule a Consultation
Fungal infections can be painful, unpleasant, and difficult to deal with. By seeing a board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Krathen, you can get some relief. To get started, call our office at (508) 827-2615 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
Meet Dr. Michael Krathen
Dr. Michael Krathen is a board-certified dermatologist with more than a decade of medical training and experience. A specialist in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, he uses expertise, collaboration, and compassion to help people of all ages discover their healthiest and most radiant skin.
Credentials You Can Trust
