It is not so unusual to find strange spots on our skin almost overnight. They can be rounded, small, in groups, light or dark. In the vast majority of cases, these formations indicate that there is an ongoing mycosis. That is, our body is infested with parasites that we normally call fungi. When we observe similar anomalies in our skin it is essential that we contact the attending physician who will be able to provide us with the most suitable treatment for our case. In fact, although potential remedies will be mentioned in this article, do-it-yourself should always be avoided. Skin fungi, a wrong coexistence
Each part of our body is endowed with the so-called bacterial flora, it is an innumerable series of microorganisms that populate organs and tissues. Most of these live in symbiosis with us, avoiding aggression by pathogenic microorganisms. However, if there are some imbalances – also known as dysbiosis – the pathogens found in the environment could contaminate our body leading to various forms of parasites. Among these also cutaneous mycoses. The transformation into pathogenic fungi
In other cases it is the same fungi that until the day before lived in symbiosis which, following an alteration, are transformed into opportunistic microorganisms. That is, they exploit a moment of immune weakness in order to quickly replicate – on our skin – various colonies of the microorganism. If these colonies are in high quantity, a real pathological state develops. The causes of the formation of fungi
The causes of the formation of fungi on our skin can be various. Among these is the presence of an environment that favors its appearance. For example, wearing synthetic clothing that does not allow the skin to breathe and causes sweating or the use of drugs that weaken the immune system (corticosteroids, antibiotics, etc.). Fungal infections can be passed from person to person – except in cases of opportunistic microorganisms. But also as an animal and man.
- Other causes
- Excessive sweating
- Diabetes
- Excessive hygiene (eliminates good bacterial flora)
- Obesity
- Transmission of fungi can occur from:
- Vegetable
- Human skin flakes
- Ground
- Animals
- Problems of the skin bacterial flora
Symptoms of skin fungus
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of mycosis and the area where it occurs. They can occur almost everywhere but more likely in skin folds (genitals, armpits, under the breasts, etc.), nails and scalp. They can be limited to the skin surface only or extend to the mucous membranes, the dermis and all its related structures. In some cases, systemic mycoses may also occur which also involve internal organs. These include the lungs. The various types of skin fungi Candidiasis:
they are among the most common opportunistic fungi and generally form in the mucous membranes, in the groin, under the breast, in the interdigital areas and in the armpits. Immunosuppressed individuals may also develop esophageal candidiasis. They can also form vaginally with losses with a consistency similar to a ricotta. More rarely it forms in humans, on the glans. Pityriasis
also in this case are opportunistic microorganisms that cause small irregular spots. Often they are dark but when scratching, they turn white leaving the skin similar to Vitiligo. It can form in the trunk, abdomen, neck, arms and face. No itching is felt Dermatophytos i
they form in the stratum corneum, in the scalp or in the nails. They rarely itch. Most fungal formations obstruct the passage of ultraviolet rays, which means that they remain clear even in case of sun exposure.
Dermatophytosis Recognizing pityriasis
Pityriasis versicolor is one of the most particular fungal manifestations that cannot be transmitted to others. It starts with slightly dark spots that form a kind of crust. When it comes off, the skin remains clearer and does not even tan in the sun. Generally it forms where there is a greater concentration of sebum.
Pityriasis of the skin Recognizing athlete’s foot
Unlike pityriasis it is very itchy and forms very easily in the interdigital spaces. It does not form spots or bubbles but a sort of crack in the middle of the fingers. It gets worse with sweat, at which time there is intense itching.
Foot fungus Ringworm of the scalp
Ringworm can also occur on the scalp and appear as round, scaly, whitish patches. Within these it is very likely that you will lose your hair. The disease can also be very contagious.
The typical ring formation of the Tinea or Ringworm of the body Mycosis of the nails
There are different types of nail fungus, the most classic is the one that starts with a small yellowish or white spot and then spreads to the rest of the nail. When it is already at an advanced stage, the nail appears nibbled and breaks very easily.
Nail fungus Minimize the risk of contamination
Use only pure cotton or linen clothing, avoid synthetic fibers
Dry skin well if it is wet or sweaty
Do not use other people’s (household) clothes or linens
In the pool use only disposable slippers and throws
Do not use aggressive detergents that alter the flora of the skin
Avoid the abuse of antibiotics and cortisone Cures for skin fungi
Among the most common treatments we remember drugs of natural origin such as griseofulvin, amphotericin B and nystatin. But there are also some synthetic ones: miconazole, clotrimazole, bifonazole and ketoconazole. Except in rare cases, the treatment must be carried out both topically and orally. Depending on the severity it can last even more than a month. Natural remedies
Among the best known natural remedies are grapefruit seed extract, with antibacterial and antifungal virtues. But also ointments based on antifungal essential oils such as tea tree. As a complement, used in mixture with a vegetable oil, you can also use the essential oils of eucalyptus, lemon, sage and thyme. None of these can be used pure or in concentrated doses. Just a few drops mixed in 10 ml of base oil are enough. There are also slightly more empirical and unpleasant remedies such as garlic which can be rubbed into the skin as long as it is not damaged or mucous membranes. Finally, we remind you that for problems of a certain importance these remedies are not sufficient and it is essential to turn to the use of drugs.