Don’t let your body be a breeding ground
Summertime for many means making trips to the swimming pool and spending time outdoors.
However, summertime is also one of the most common periods to develop a fungal infection.
Fungal infections are fairly common, affecting more than 200,000 people in the United States annually. Fungal infections are infections caused by their namesake, fungi; examples include mold, mildew and mushrooms. Many types of fungi thrive in warm, moist places.
The summer is a more common time to develop fungal infections because of the warm, humid climate. The most common types of fungal infections for men include athlete’s foot, jock itch and ringworm.
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the foot, causing peeling and blistering. Public pools, locker rooms and public showers are breeding grounds for athlete’s foot. However, not all itchy, irritated feet are victims of athlete’s foot. The best way to know if you have the infection is for your doctor to scrape the skin and examine it under a microscope for evidence of fungi.
Athlete’s foot is usually treated with topical antifungal cream but may require oral medication in some circumstances. Athlete’s foot typically occurs when feet are not protected in a public place, such as a public shower, or if they are constantly in tight shoes in a hot climate. To prevent athlete’s foot, consider wearing flip-flops in the locker room or occasionally letting feet air out with loose, open shoes. Drying feet completely and using foot powder can also help prevent the infection.
Jock itch is a fungal infection affecting the genitals, inner thighs and buttocks. The infection is usually ring-shaped, appearing red and itchy. Like athlete’s foot, keeping the infected area clean and dry and applying topical antifungal cream are the best methods of treatment. Overthe-counter creams usually work, but prescription treatment may be necessary. Showering and changing underwear every day can help prevent jock itch.
Ringworm, contrary to its name, is not a worm at all. It is a fungal infection that can show up anywhere on one’s body, appearing circular, red and flat. It can be spread through direct contact, and heat and humidity make its spread more common. It is possible to have ringworm without the signature red ring. A doctor can test for ringworm by examining skin scrapings under a microscope. Topical, antifungal creams are the best treatment for ringworm, too. In rare cases, oral medication may be prescribed.
Though fungi are everywhere, only about half of fungi are harmful. Those with weakened immune systems or individuals taking antibiotics are more likely to develop fungal infections.
The best defense against fungal infections is cleanliness. Bathe regularly. Wash and change clothes every day. Avoid sharing clothes, towels or other personal items with others. Wear shoes when using public showers or locker rooms. It’s especially important to bathe following a visit to a public pool or gym.
If you’re concerned that you may have a fungal infection, don’t hesitate to visit your doctor. Most treatments can begin working fairly quickly, helping to alleviate itchiness and irritation in a few weeks.
–Tara Bullock
