How Much Time Does it Take to Cure Fungal Infection?

 Introduction 

An infection caused by the species of fungi is known as a fungal infection. These infections can either be superficial or deep. These fungal infections can occur when in close contact of dust, plants, contaminated water, etc. that can lead to various skin related problems such as severe itching, rashes, skin bumps, watery discharge, etc.


Different types of fungal infections? 

Fungal infection can occur anywhere in your body, starting from your head to toe. Few common fungal infections in humans are athlete's foot, ringworms, yeast infections, etc.


What are the symptoms of fungal infections? 

The symptoms of fungal infections include: 

  • Skin irritation

  • Scaly skin

  • Erythema or redness

  • Severe itching

  • Watery discharge 

  • Swellings

  • Blisters(fluid-filled)


How much time does it take to get cured of fungal infections? 

A fungus is a germ, which can cause various types of skin infections, i.e., either superficial or deep infections. These infections can cause you trouble. A fungal infection can usually take around 4 to 6 weeks, and some may even take up to several months to get completely cured. However, the healing period of a fungal infection depends on the type of infection. Dermatophytes cause some fungal infections. Let us understand a few common fungal infections: 


  • Athlete's foot: one of the most common fungal infections in adults that is caused by both bacteria and fungus. The presenting symptoms may include dry skin, scaly skin, irritable skin, redness, itching, cracks, Blisters, etc. An athlete's foot's common site in an adult is in between the toes. It goes away with proper and regular application of fungal infection cream in 2 weeks.

  • Fungal infection of nails: Ringworm infection is one of the most common fungal infections in all age groups. It can occur in any part of the body such as the groin, nails, hair, beard, etc. and causes severe inflammation. Nail fungal infections are called onychomycosis and can present with crumbled, thickened and malformed nails. While fingernails can be treated in up to 6 weeks using fungal infection creams, toenails take longer i.e. up to 18 weeks.

  • Ringworm: It is also one of the most common fungal skin infections which can occur anywhere in your body such as groin, scalp, etc., that causes severe inflammation of the skin and can even cause systemic infections. The disease may present with hair loss, severe itching, redness, blisters, watery discharge, etc. A ringworm in your groin area is also called "jock itch". People who maintain poor hygienic routines, or those who sweat a lot may develop this infection. This type of fungal infection usually has a centre and a periphery that causes patches and plaques, which are severely itchy and present with discharge. Mild cases of ringworm can be treated effectively in 2 weeks, but severe infections may need up to 3 months. Usage of fungal infection cream regularly is mandatory.


When to see your doctor for fungal infections? 

Fungal infections are quite common and can affect all age groups. Book an appointment with your doctor if you notice the following symptoms: 

  • Non-healing plaque, blister, scaly lesion

  • Itching

  • Redness

  • Swelling

  • Blister 

  • Watery discharge 

  • Multiple locations


Once your appointment has been fixed, your doctor will investigate your case by taking a complete history, physical examinations and conduct few tests to confirm his/her diagnosis. The tests may include blood tests, lesion culture and sensitivity tests, to see the severity and type of the infection. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor will ask you to maintain personal hygiene, including not sharing clothes or towels with anyone and applying candid or ketoconazole powder and ointments and any other fungal infection cream with systemic and topical antibiotics to prevent spread and reoccurrence. 



Conclusion

Fungal infections may cause severe to no discomfort. However, they are curable if the treatment procedure is completed properly. You may prevent fungal infection by maintaining hygiene.

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