6 Skin Infections to Watch Out for During Monsoon

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The black clouds, the first drop of rain, and the scent of petrichor, the rain-drenched landscapes around make the monsoon bring the best of nature. While we love the enchanting views, there is also a flip side to this season of bliss.

Even though we get much-needed relief from the scorching sun, it may trigger a host of skin infections and conditions that we should be aware of.

The dermatologists at Meraki Skin Clinic in Gurugram have shared a few skin infections to watch out for this monsoon:

1. Athlete’s Foot
   

   An athlete’s foot is a contagious disease and is mostly caused by coming in direct contact with an infected person or touching contaminated surfaces. Also known as infection of toenails, it is a fungal infection that affects your feet and sometimes hands too.

   Since the fungus is known to thrive in moist and humid climates, monsoons are the perfect times for it to breed. If you feel burning or itching on your feet, cracking of skin, or blisters on your feet, it is time to see a dermatologist.

   The dermatologists at Meraki Skin Clinic in Gurgaon suggest watching out for thick and crumbly toenails and warn against falling for unreliable home remedies. The doctors might prescribe a complete course of antifungal medicines to cure the infection inside out.

2. Ringworm
   

   Another common fungal infection that can cause scaly and crusty patches on the skin, is most commonly seen in children, although it can affect elders too. The round scaly patches on the skin can cause itching and redness.

   Ringworm can be recognized by normal or red skin in the middle and scales on the borders. It is usually found on the groin, beard, scalp, feet, and other parts of the body that tend to sweat more.

   Ringworm is contagious and is spread by sharing towels, comb, clothes, and other personal care items. One can also get affected by coming in contact with contaminated swimming pools and lockers.

   This is one of the infections that can be transmitted through infected pets too, hence, it is important to maintain immense hygiene and not share personal belongings. If you happen to notice any given symptoms, do not wait to see your doctor who will advise a complete course of treatment.

3. Intertrigo
   

   Intertrigo or intertrigo dermatitis is an inflammation of folds of the skin and is caused by moisture, heat, friction, and lack of air circulation. Worsened by heat, it is mostly caused due to Candida but other fungal or bacterial infections may also be the cause.

   The most common symptoms to watch out for are burning, pain, stinging, or itching in the area. It typically occurs in the armpits, groin area, between the toes and fingers, or any part of the body where the skin folds.

   An intertrigo if not treated can also cause a foul smell and the skin becomes red and scaly, and lead to secondary infections. The adept and experienced team of dermatologists at Meraki Skin Clinic in Gurugram offer a customised treatment as per the cause of the condition, and provide the best possible cure to the problem. At their clinic, the patient can rest assured that they are in the best hands.

4. Acne
   

   Many people happen to be a victim of acne at some point in their teenage years. Affecting both genders equally, acne can be aggravated in monsoon since the skin is exposed to weather alternating between dry and humid.

   While the condition is not life-threatening or contagious, if left untreated, it can become severe, can scar your skin and affect self-confidence negatively.

   The dermatologists at Meraki Skin Clinic in Gurgaon can help with correct medical attention and care providing treatment as per your skin. So, rather than rushing for a concealer to hide that acne, it is better to see a skin specialist to get the right treatment and solve the root cause of this distressing problem.

5. Facial Folliculitis
   

   Facial folliculitis might seem to be like acne to a layman and often pop up as small, red skin bumps. Folliculitis happens when the hair follicle gets inflamed or infected majorly due to different types of bacteria, and in some cases by even viruses and fungi.

   There are many factors like sweating, humidity, compromised hygiene and immunity etc., that can lead to this itchy and annoying skin infection.

   Please note that folliculitis is a blanket term and only an adept dermatologist can tell the type and cause of facial folliculitis that a person is suffering from. With the right medication, this skin condition can be tackled in an effective and timely manner.

6. P Versicolor
   

   If you find sudden scaly patches on your skin, you can blame it on Pityriasis Versicolor. Also known as P. Versicolor or Tinea Versicolor, this is a very common fungal infection that causes discoloured red, white, brown, or pink patches on your skin.

   Mainly found on joints, these symptoms are fairly easy to treat. A dermatologist is likely to prescribe antifungal ointments and medications but the infections can take 8-12 weeks to go away completely.

   The infection is common in people staying in crowded places like hostels or in those who are into heavy workouts or sports since they tend to have more sweat accumulation.

   If you feel you or anyone in your family is facing the above symptoms or you fear you may have contacted someone with a contagious infection, do not worry. Simply book your appointment with the dermatologists at Meraki Skin Clinic in Gurugram for expert diagnosis.

   Timely medical intervention will not only help you cure the skin infection effectively but also ensures that the infection does not worsen or contaminate your other family members. Happy Monsoon!