Fungus on the feet (mycosis).- fungal infections of the skin of the feet and interdigital folds, nails caused by pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic fungi. Conditional pathogens are natural inhabitants that exist in small amounts in the normal microflora of the skin and mucous membranes, but under certain conditions, fungi begin to acquire pathogenic (disease-causing) properties and cause diseases. Regardless of the pathogen, the disease has similar symptoms and treatment tactics.
In 9 out of 10 cases, mycoses on the legs are caused by fungi of the genus Trichophyton. According to statistics, men are more prone to fungal infection of the skin of the feet than women. Almost 58% of all cases are men. Nail fungus (onychomycosis) most often develops on the III-IV nail plates of the feet. Often untreated for a long time, nail fungus is the cause of mycosis of the feet and vice versa. It should be noted that some non-fungal skin diseases can be complicated by the appearance of a fungal disease. Foot eczema is often combined with mycosis.
Symptoms of athlete's foot
Dermatophytosis of the feet
Dermatophytosis of the feet (Tinea Pedis - athlete's foot) is the most common mycosis of the skin of the feet and nails. The fungal process of the feet, as a rule, begins with damage to the lateral surfaces. Scaly peeling (flaking) of the skin may occur. This process is not always accompanied by discomfort, itching or pain.
Over time, hyperkeratosis develops -thickening of the skin. Sometimes you may notice a slight reddening of the accompanying skinflesh peeling, gives the skin a "dusty look". The skin is dry, itchy and painful. If a fungal infection is not treated at this stage, diaper rash will appear in the interdigital spaces after a while. Most often, the interdigital form of toenail fungus affects the folds between the third and fourth, fourth and fifth toes. Skin defects may occur, characterized by a violation of its integrity (erosion) and painful cracks. With the interdigital form (intertriginous), there are clear manifestations of itching and sometimes burning of the affected skin.
INindifferent formFungal disease of the feet occurs when it occurs on the surfaces of the toesFoamfilled with a clear liquid and covered with a thick layer. "Sago grains" (bubbles) may be single or may coalesce into multi-chambered bubbles. As pyococci (purulent bacteria) unite, the contents of the blisters become cloudy, then open and form erosions covered with purulent hemorrhagic crusts. Inflammation of the lymph nodes and deterioration of general health are possible.
When blisters appear, it is important not to confuse a fungal infection with dyshidrotic eczema. Only a doctor can understand the problem and make an accurate diagnosis! 2/3 of patients with interdigital and advanced forms have tinea pedis, miticides (allergic rash).
Of course, the identification of clinical forms is conditional, because their combination often occurs - one form can turn into another. It all depends on the reaction of the body, physical activity and treatment methods of the patient.
Also, with mycosis of the feet, the nails are often affected, mainly on the first and fifth toes. The nail plate acquires yellowish spots or stripes, the surface becomes dull and uneven, and a horny thickening begins to appear under the nail, which subsequently leads to the destruction of the nail plate.
Yeast-like mycoses of the feet
Recently, fungal infections of the feet caused by fungi of the genus Candida have become widespread. It is believed that this is due to the widespread use of antibiotics and cytostatics (antitumor drugs).
MushroomsGenus Candida, located in the interdigital folds, causing skin abrasions and diaper rash-like symptoms. Often, all interdigital spaces are involved in the skin process. There is pain and burning of the skin between the toes. Nail candidiasis (infection with Candida fungi) occurs more often in the hands of women - housewives, laundresses, dishwashers, food distributors in canteens. The nail plates loosen, peel, and white spots appear.
Fungal mycoses of the feet
Mold mycoses are mainly spread in countries where people traditionally walk barefoot (India, African countries). In regions with a temperate climate, this type of mycosis also occurs, but, as a rule, in immunocompromised patients and in people who are often in contact with soil and plants. The color of the nail plate will depend on the type of specific pathogen. The nail plate may even turn black.
However, when painting the nail in this way, it is important not to miss the malignant form of the finger skin tumor -subungual melanoma.To make a correct diagnosis, it is imperative to see a doctor!Often, fungal changes in the skin of the feet and nails can occur simultaneously. On the one hand, it can serve as a confirmation of a common fungal nature, on the other hand, it can mask other skin problems.
A change in the color or thickness of the nail plate is not always onychomycosis (nail fungus). Nails can be damaged by injury, wearing tight shoes, using poor-quality nail polish, or a bacterial infection. For example, the nail plate acquires a green color due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. However, yellow-brown, gray, whitish colors should indicate a fungus and the need for laboratory diagnostics. Also, the thickness of nails with a fungal infection may remain normal or, on the contrary, may be very thin.
Causes of foot fungus
The main reasons for the development of fungal infection on the feet are:
- Increased sweating of the feet.
- The presence of chronic diseases.Diabetes mellitus, certain blood diseases, long-term use of antibiotics or immunosuppressive (immunosuppressive) drugs contribute to the development of fungal infection and the spread of the disease to other parts of the body.
- The presence of microtraumas on the legs.Small cracks and cuts are a direct route for infection. Therefore, it is very important to immediately treat the damaged skin areas with antiseptic agents.
- Non-compliance with hygiene rules.Walking barefoot in public places (bathroom, sauna, swimming pool) is fraught with fungal infection.
Cream for the treatment of foot fungus
Due to its special chemical structure, the drug has a triple effect on fungi: it helps to suppress their growth, reproduction and death, and also prevents the transition of fungi to the pathogenic form. Sertaconazole also has good lipophilicity (the ability to dissolve in the fatty structures of cells). This ensures fast and effective penetration of the drug into the skin and increases the local antifungal effect. At the same time, the development of fungal infection resistance to treatment is practically not observed. The drug has an antibacterial effect against streptococci and staphylococci, relieves itching and inflammation.
So, the advantages of creams are as follows:
- Wide spectrum of antifungal activity
- Triple effect on fungal cells
- Reduced itching, inflammation and antibacterial effect
- It penetrates well into the affected skin areas and has a long-lasting antifungal effect due to lipophilicity
- It can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risks to the unborn child.
The drug has an antibacterial effect against streptococci and staphylococci, relieves itching and inflammation.
Application of creams
For fungal infections of the feet, it is recommended to apply the product in a thin layer to the affected area of skin, covering 1 cm of healthy skin, 1-2 times a day for 2-4 weeks. It has a triple effect: antifungal, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory
Prevention of athlete's foot
To prevent fungal infection of the feet and nails, you should follow the following preventive measures:
- Disinfect shoes when treating foot fungus
- Observe personal hygiene, do not walk barefoot in public places (pool, sauna, bath).
- Don't wear other people's shoes
- Choose shoes suitable for the season and preferably from natural materials.
- Treat fresh wounds and cuts immediately
- Use products to reduce foot sweating
Answers to questions
Is it possible to re-infect the fungus?
Answer:Yes you can. Past fungal skin diseases do not lead to permanent immunity. Therefore, you can be infected with an unlimited number of fungi.
What is better to use to treat fungus: tablets or creams and ointments?
Answer:The treatment regimen is determined only by the attending physician. This takes into account the severity and extent of the fungal infection. As a rule, fungal infections of the feet and nail plates are treated with local (external) agents.