Fungal infection can manifest in several ways — itchy skin, rashes, discoloured nails and cough. (Credit: Pexels)A 32-year-old woman shuffled on her feet at the OPD of the National Skin Hospital, Panchkula. She had multiple itchy skin lesions over her abdomen, thighs and face as well as discoloured nails. When she developed them five months ago, she had tried several home remedies but there was no relief. She then used some topical creams containing steroids as advised by a local chemist. She got some respite from itching but her rash got redder and worse, her skin started thinning out and scarring.“What she had was a routine fungal infection. You should not use steroid medication at all. While steroid creams can temporarily relieve inflammation and itching, they can actually worsen the infection by suppressing the immune system’s ability to fight the fungus. This can lead to the fungus spreading and the infection becoming more severe,” says Dr Vikas Sharma, HOD, Dermatology, National Skin Hospital. He gave routine antifungal medication and the patient’s skin cleared out in 45 days.“Fungi prefer a warm, moist environment. That’s why everybody becomes more infection-prone during the sweltering summer and monsoon. Increased sweating, combined with the inability to dry off quickly in the humid weather, creates ideal conditions for fungal growth,” he adds.What are signs of fungal infection?This infection can manifest in several ways — itchy skin, rashes, discoloured nails and cough. Dr Vikas Bhutani, director, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Mohali, says the most common fungal infection is athlete’s foot, where ringworm appears as a circular, red rash on the skin between toes. “We also see jock itch, which affects the groin area, and yeast infections, which occurs in moist areas like the groin, underarms and under the breasts. Fungus doesn’t spare the nails, causing them to thicken and become discoloured,” he explains.Why skin hygiene is most important during monsoonKeeping the skin clean is the best form of prevention. “Taking a bath at least twice a day is beneficial. Change into dry clothes and shoes as soon as possible after getting wet. Dry your feet well, especially between the toes, after washing or being exposed to water. Wear loose cotton or linen clothes and avoid synthetic ones. Apply antifungal powders to areas prone to sweating and moisture. Use sunscreens while moving out. That’s because the rainy season washes away pollutants, making the ultraviolet rays more damaging for the skin,” explains Dr Bhutani.Dr Raghav Mehan, senior consultant, ENT, Paras Health, Panchkula, has seen a 20 per cent increase in fungal ear infections, nasal allergies and upper respiratory tract infections this monsoon. “Damp indoor environment and poor ventilation can aggravate ENT and respiratory issues like nasal blockage, throat irritation and fungal infections,” says Dr Mehan.Avoid spreading the infection from one family member to another via sharing of clothes, bedsheets and towels. Dr Sharma recommends a diet high in probiotics like yoghurt, fermented foods and kefir that can boost the immune system, while avoiding highly processed and sugary foods.Story continues below this adCan fungal infection pose a threat to lungs?Dr Sonal, consultant, Pulmonary Medicine, Livasa Hospital, Mohali, says sustained humidity creates a favourable environment for fungal growth in the respiratory system. “While fungal pneumonia is less commonly diagnosed, conditions like pulmonary aspergillosis, which causes wheezing as an allergic reaction, become more prevalent, especially in individuals with weakened immunity or underlying lung diseases. It’s important to watch for persistent cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, blood in sputum and seek timely medical attention to prevent complications.”When do you see a doctor?If you notice any sign of fungal infection, seeking medical advice and proper adherence to the entire anti-fungal treatment regimen is crucial because of the rising incidence of resistance among fungal organisms to conventional antifungal drugs.© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd