So what is a fungal infection? This is a disease caused by fungi, the number of which is very large in nature. Today there are more than 200 different species of mushrooms. Where do fungi live and how does a person become infected?
Fungi are widespread in the environment. They live in the soil, on plants, on animals and there is even a saprophytic species of fungi that happily coexists with us, i. e. H. live on human skin. Fungi pathogenic to humans that affect the skin are called dermatophytes, and the diseases are called dermatomycosis.
Infection can occur in two ways: direct infection through contact with soil, plants, a sick animal or person; indirect – in contact with various things and objects used by patients, including through animal care items.
Why does a fungal infection occur?
Susceptibility to a fungal infection is determined by numerous factors: weather conditions (hot season), state of the immune system, skin condition and the presence of concomitant diseases. Age, gender and professional factors also play a role. More often, of course, the disease occurs in the hot season, after returning from the seas, where there is a hot, humid climate, accompanied by increased sweating.
These factors are particularly favorable for the introduction of pathogenic fungi and for the transition of saprophytes into the pathogenic flora.
What types of fungal infections are there?
There are mainly 4 groups of fungal diseases:
They are quite superficial, as they affect the stratum corneum and the cuticle of the hair without causing inflammatory reactions and without affecting skin appendages (hair, nails). The most common disease from this group is pityriasis versicolor or pityriasis versicolor. It is manifested by the appearance of café-au-lait spots, especially on the chest, back and shoulder girdle.
This is a large group of fungal diseases that affect skin, hair and nails. The most common disease in this group is athlete's foot or mycosis of the feet. The disease is very common in the adult population - around 80% suffer from it.
A big role in the prevention of fungal diseases is played by the treatment of shoes, the treatment of manicure and pedicure scissors with special antifungal drugs in the form of solutions and sprays.
It is also important to counteract excessive sweating of the foot skin if necessary. For treatment depending on the severity.
The course and extent of the process require local and systemic antifungal therapy.
In recent years, a modern method has been successfully used in the treatment of fungal nail diseases (onychomycosis) - laser treatment of onychomycosis.
Prevention of fungal diseases
Fungal diseases, also known as mycoses, are infectious diseases caused by pathogenic fungi.
Fungal infections can affect a variety of organs. The symptoms can be very different, depending on which organ was affected and what type of fungus it is. There are many types of fungal infections, but the most common are forms that affect the skin and nails. Mycoses are contagious diseases and are transmitted from person to person.
Fungal diseases can occur on any part of the human body: the trunk, the limbs, the scalp, the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, between the fingers, the groin and even the face.
If a family member is diagnosed with a fungal disease, all family members should be carefully examined, and if it is a child, even those caring for the sick child. It is also necessary to carefully check for fungal diseases of children entering orphanages, kindergartens, schools and similar institutions.
It is particularly important to examine school children before departure and after arrival from summer camps.
If you suspect the presence of mycosis, you should see a dermatologist and be tested for fungi. Before the consultation, it is best to cut your hair short, so that mycoses can be recognized much more easily.
If there is the slightest suspicion that a child has a fungal infection, he or she should be prohibited from attending school or kindergarten. Treatment must begin immediately after the diagnosis is confirmed; under no circumstances should the patient come into contact with healthy children.
Any object touched by the patient may be contaminated and pose a risk of transmitting infection or reinfection to the patient themselves. Each of these items must be disinfected or destroyed. Clothing is disinfected in a steam-formalin or steam-air chamber. Bedding is disinfected by boiling for 20 minutes.
The prevention of fungal diseases in hairdressing salons, bathrooms and showers should be carried out regularly at intervals of no more than 3 months. Metal objects should be thoroughly disinfected with dry heat, other things in steam-formalin chambers.
Prevention of mycosis diseases in animals is of great importance, since people very often become infected with trichophytosis and microsporia from animals.
It is necessary to establish sanitary livestock farms and veterinary control services in collective farms.
People who have come into contact with sick animals are recommended to observe hygiene rules and monitor the condition of their skin, as they can become a source of further spread of infection in both humans and animals.
Cats and dogs can be carriers of fluffy microsporum, which is the cause of the disease microsporia. Animals suspected of being carriers of a fungal infection must be referred to special veterinary facilities. However, they should never simply be sent away as they spread the infection. However, there are also known cases in which the carriers were rats and mice.
Preventive measures are necessary to reduce the risk of infection in healthy people and not to turn them into carriers of a fungal infection. Systematic disinfection of premises is one of the most important points in the prevention process. It is carried out with a five percent solution of chloramine, then everything is washed with a five percent soap solution.
Fungal skin changes
Fungal skin infections are quite common diseases. Can affect any part of the body. To avoid illness, hygiene and hygiene rules must be observed. Treating fungus is a complex process. Therefore, do not delay your visit to the doctor.
Preparations to prevent athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is an infectious disease that is accompanied by the appearance of blisters, peeling, itching, cracks, etc. To prevent the disease, you need to pay attention to foot hygiene and take antifungal medications.
Treatment of skin fungus
Skin fungus or mycosis often occurs in people with weakened immune systems. If the skin is affected, the disease often becomes chronic and reduces the body's resistance. There are different types of mycoses and treatment must be individual.
Fungal diseases of the male genital organs
A separate type of male disease are fungal diseases of the male genital organs, which are characterized by a specific transmission - exclusively through sexual contact. Therefore, it is extremely important to take care of your health and carry out prevention.
Prevention of fungal diseases. Methods for primary prevention of mycoses
To prevent infection with a pathogenic fungus, you must follow several rules:
- Pay attention to personal hygiene. Every contact in public places should end with hand disinfection. To do this, simply wash your hands thoroughly or apply an antiseptic solution.
- Public places should be visited with caution. Saunas, toilets, showers and baths are a "breeding ground" for the proliferation of pathogenic microflora. Avoid contact with surfaces in such areas.
- Avoid contact with infected people or animals. This also applies to items used by the patient.
The first unpleasant sensations on the skin or its appendages should not be ignored. It is better to visit a specialist who can determine the cause and prescribe the correct treatment.
Causes of the development of mycosis of the feet
Mycoses of the feet are skin lesions caused by parasitic fungi. A very common disease among the population. The surface of the foot and the back of the foot, the interdigital space and the nails are affected.
The pathogen is the fungus Trichophyton, which comes in two variants. The first is red Trichophyton, the second is interdigital. The last type is the most common. According to WHO, up to 30% of residents of developed countries suffer from dermatomycosis of the skin of the feet. This is associated with the constant wearing of shoes, which creates the most favorable conditions for the development of athlete's foot.
Causes of mycoses
The infection is transmitted primarily through contact - through personal items and household items. Corneal particles contaminated with spores of pathogenic fungal strains are a direct source of infection for others.
Microorganisms multiply most intensively in a moist environment. Walking barefoot in public places - baths, saunas, showers - creates conditions for infection with mycoses.
The spores enter microcracks, abrasions and diaper rash on human skin and grow into the thread-like body of the fungus - the mycelium. It penetrates deep into the epidermis and causes lesions.
The causes of the development of mycosis are:
- reduced immunity due to chronic diseases;
- diabetes mellitus;
- varicose veins, thrombophlebitis;
- Age over 60 years.
These factors impair the protective functions of the skin and thus allow pathogens to penetrate. At risk are metallurgists, miners, military personnel and athletes - everyone who, due to their service or working conditions, is forced to constantly wear waterproof and vapor-proof shoes.
Intrafamilial mycoses of the feet are common. Immediate proximity to an infected family member is the shortest route of transmission of a harmful fungal disease.
Symptoms of a fungal infection
Fungal infections of the feet manifest themselves through various signs of skin destruction. Depending on the type of skin damage, forms of mycosis are distinguished:
- Deleted. The surface of the foot peels off, diaper rash appears between the toes. The itching is mild. Patients often do not attach importance to it, considering the symptoms of the fungus as an irritation, or use ineffective home treatment methods.
- Squamous cell carcinoma-hyperkeratic. Due to the rough, thick leather of the sole, which is riddled with cracks, this form is also called "moccasin foot". The damage to the skin is significant - it flakes off in large scales, its color is gray-yellow. There is pain when walking, an unpleasant odor. The disease most often affects older people.
- Wet (vesicular, dehydrotic). Its peculiarity is the formation of small pink bubbles, which over time merge into large bubbles. The disease begins in the arch of the foot and then spreads to the entire foot and toes. When the bubbles burst, they form foci of erosion. The skin swells and itches.
- Intertriginous. Characterized by damage to the interdigital space. The skin loosens, becomes wet and swells. Severe itching and burning occurs. Over time, deep, painful cracks form that interfere with normal walking.
- Sharp. Severe form of mycosis. It is characterized by fever, inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes and swelling of the feet and legs. The feet are covered with blisters containing serous-purulent contents. After opening, weeping erosions form, causing severe physical suffering to the patient.
Pathogenic fungi that feed on the cells of the human body release toxins that poison the body. The protective function of the skin and general immunity decrease. Lesions are open doors to bacterial and viral infections. Treatment of fungi is a necessary condition for maintaining health and normal well-being.
Diagnosis of mycosis of the foot
The diagnosis and treatment of fungal diseases of the feet is carried out by a dermatologist and mycologist. The type of fungus is determined using laboratory methods - examining tissue samples under a microscope. A cultural method to determine the pathogen type is to place the inoculated material in a culture medium. At the same time, the causes of mycoses are determined. Conduct tests for HIV, blood sugar levels and sexually transmitted diseases.
Based on the results obtained, the doctor makes a diagnosis and prescribes treatment. This can be monotherapy or complex treatment with external agents and tablets.
How to treat athlete's foot
Ringworm treatment is successful if the patient takes medications and procedures responsibly. Modern drugs have a liver-friendly effect and effectively destroy the mycelium of pathological forms of fungi.
For wet forms of the fungus, the wounds are first dried with a solution of potassium permanganate, brilliant green, iodine or boric acid. In the treatment of this type of mycosis, drugs containing corticosteroids are indispensable. The "moccasin foot" is freed from callused layers by wrapping it with salicylic acid. They soften rough skin and can be easily removed after the procedure.
Treatment with folk remedies for athlete's foot
Homemade formulations in the form of:
- foot baths;
- Anoint;
- lotions;
- compressed.
- Decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs.
The baths last 15-20 minutes. The solution is prepared with the addition of acids – acetic, boric acid or a mixture of salt and soda. They soften the stratum corneum well. After the procedure, dry the foot and lubricate it with birch tar. After an hour and a half, remove the remaining medication with a napkin. Course – from 3 to 5 times. Onions and garlic in the form of compresses disinfect the surface of the feet well. Used in mixture with oils. For smaller skin lesions, a decoction of oak bark, juices of celandine, lemon and essential oils of tea tree or fir are effective.
Important. Folk remedies have no contraindications, but their use is most effective in combination with drug treatment.
Consequences of mycosis of the feet
Like any infectious disease, tinea pedis affects the cells of the human body. The mycelium penetrates the thickness of the skin and feeds on its components. It grows into the epithelial layers. This does not go unnoticed by the body. Local and general immunity decreases. Allergic reactions may occur and asthmatic manifestations may increase. Bacterial and viral infections invade open wounds. Fungal infections can be associated with more serious illnesses.
Important. Mycosis of the feet poses a danger both to the carrier of the dermatophyte and to his immediate environment. People with poor health are most susceptible to fungal diseases. It is necessary to cure the fungus to protect yourself and others.
Prevention of athlete's foot
The main preventive measures should be aimed at:
- Avoid contact with possible sources of fungal infection.
- maintaining personal hygiene;
- maintaining a healthy lifestyle;
- Treatment of chronic diseases.
If signs of mycosis appear on the foot, you should consult a specialist and carry out the prescribed treatment. If preventive measures are taken, the recurrence of a fungal infection of the leg skin is quite rare.
Fungal infection in the body: symptoms and treatment
The human body is inhabited by many viruses, fungi and bacteria. All of these microorganisms can be beneficial, opportunistic or pathogenic. In addition, the last two species do not cause any harm as long as a certain balance between the microorganisms is maintained
fungal infection
The human body is inhabited by many viruses, fungi and bacteria. All of these microorganisms can be beneficial, opportunistic or pathogenic. In addition, the last two species do not cause any harm as long as a certain balance between the microorganisms is maintained.
The greatest danger is a fungus - a microorganism that can cause damage to the skin and internal organs of a person. There are about 500 species of fungi that cause mycoses in humans. Which fungal infections can lead to serious illnesses in humans and which treatment methods are used to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms?
Types of mushrooms
All fungi that can live in the human body are divided into several types:
- Yeast;
- moldy;
- domiphoric.
Mushrooms are multicellular
Yeasts live in the human body and are part of its microflora. They belong to the opportunistic species because they do not pose a threat to health if the balance is maintained. All other types of fungi are pathogenic and pose a real threat to human health and life.
Fungi can multiply on the surface of the skin and nails as well as in the body. However, a healthy person is usually not affected by a fungal infection because it is destroyed by cells of the immune system. Therefore, the most favorable conditions for the fungus to function are created in the body of people with weakened immunity.
Features of skin mycosis
The skin very often suffers from fungal infections. Furthermore, it spares neither women nor men nor children. This disease is divided into several main groups:
- athlete's foot;
- dermatomycosis;
- sporotrichosis;
- candidiasis;
- Trichophytosis.
Athlete's foot is a fungal disease caused by fungi of the genus Epidermophyton. Men are most commonly affected. With athlete's foot, not only the top layer of skin is affected, but also the nails.
There are two forms of this disease:
- athlete's groin foot;
- Athlete's foot.
Dermatomycoses are a whole group of fungal skin infections that affect one in five people on the planet. In this case, mycosis can develop not only on the skin, but also in internal organs.
Sporotrichosis is a chronic fungal disease caused by fungi of the genus Sporotricium. Infection occurs through contact with grass, bushes, soil, road dust and even food. In this case, the skin and subcutaneous tissue are most often affected. The mucous membranes and internal organs are only very rarely exposed to the fungus.
Candidiasis is caused by yeasts of the genus Candida. These microorganisms are part of healthy microflora and fulfill important functions in the human body. However, when favorable conditions are created, Candida fungi begin to actively multiply, disrupting the balance of bacteria, which leads to the development of candidiasis. Most often, candidiasis or thrush occurs in the vagina in women and in the mouth in children.
Causes of a fungal infection
The development of a fungal infection is promoted by contact with a fungal source. For example, their spores can be in the air, on the surface of the ground or in bird droppings. At the same time, fungi need a special environment to reproduce, which arises when the body's protective functions weaken.
While athlete's foot can affect anyone, there are certain populations that are most susceptible to developing the disease.
These include:
- people who have undergone an organ transplant;
- Cancer patients and people who have undergone chemotherapy and radiation therapy;
- People suffering from diabetes and lung diseases.
Fungi can grow on the surface of the skin. However, the preferred places for dislocations are the folds of the skin, the bends of the arms and legs, i. e. all places where there is high humidity and body temperature. Mycoses can spread to a small area, such as between the fingers or toes. However, some fungi are capable of infecting deep layers of tissue. When mycosis develops in the lungs, it enters the bloodstream, causing damage to internal organs.
Coccidioidomycosis
This disease is caused by fungi of the genus Coccidioides imitus that live in the soil. This microorganism is common in the driest areas of America, Africa and Mexico. It enters other countries together with the goods delivered from these countries.
Signs of coccidioidomycosis
The first symptoms of the disease are similar to ARVI and inflammatory processes in the lungs and bronchi. The presence of a fungus is indicated by the following signs:
- slight increase in body temperature;
- Chills;
- Headache;
- feel tired;
- general weakness of the body.
These symptoms are later joined by chest pain, shortness of breath and a dry cough. A few weeks after the pulmonary manifestations of the disease, the patient develops skin rashes in the form of papules or nodules that look like warts.
histoplasmosis
This disease is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which most commonly affects the lungs. In some cases, the fungus spreads to other organs, which, if left untreated, leads to the death of the patient. People suffering from AIDS are susceptible to this disease due to the vulnerability of their immune systems.
Signs of histoplasmosis
The acute form of the disease is usually asymptomatic, which makes diagnosis difficult and delays the start of treatment. In severe cases, patients experience the following symptoms:
- Increase in body temperature to 40°-41°C
- chills followed by profuse sweating;
- severe headache and muscle pain;
- chest pain;
- dry cough;
- general weakness.
If left untreated, the disease becomes chronic.
Features of the treatment of a fungal infection
Treatment of any fungal infection includes internal administration of antifungal drugs, as well as symptomatic therapy to improve the general condition of the patient. If the disease is severe, medication is administered intravenously. The duration of treatment depends on the type of fungal infection and the severity of the disease. Generally it is between 1 and 3 months. In addition, patients are prescribed medications that strengthen the body's immune system.
Preventive measures
Mushrooms are insidious microorganisms that are difficult to destroy. Therefore, it is easier to prevent infection. First of all, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system so that it can fight pathogens independently.
It is also recommended to adhere to the following rules:
- Pay attention to personal hygiene, wash your hands before eating, after each visit to the toilet and in public places;
- Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly;
- Animal feed must undergo prolonged heat treatment;
- eat rationally and minimize the consumption of simple carbohydrates and sugars;
- monitor body weight;
- Take antibacterial and hormonal medications only as prescribed by a doctor.
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
If you notice several signs of a fungal infection, it is very important to see a doctor and undergo a complete examination of the body.
In modern dermatology there are a number of antifungal drugs that are harmful to the fungus and non-toxic to the human body. They are available in different dosage forms: for local and systemic use.