Fungal infection, or mycosis happens when the fungus invades your tissues and affects the skin, scalp, or nails. The infection can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi, and each of them has millions of species. Most of them are not risky, but a few of them can cause trouble, by leaving long-term damage. The infection can potentiate the risk of damage to the skin, nails, circulatory system, and respiratory system.
The pathogens enter the host body through any medium, air, water, soil, food, or physical contact. As soon as it reaches the tissues, it starts growing and multiplying rapidly. Individuals having a weak immune system need to be careful, as the pathogens can do severe damage due to a lack of proper response of the immune system.
This abnormal growth causes rash formation in the tissues, which spreads and causes irritation, produces a burning sensation, becomes red or purple, and turns scaly and dry. The fastest and easiest way to kill off such stubborn infectious pathogens is antifungal drugs.
Antifungal Medicines
Antifungal medicines inhibit the growth of infectious pathogens and kill them off, thereby preventing them from causing any damage to any part of the body. Such medications are infused with antimycotic agents, that destroy the bacteria and eliminate any major health risk.
Individuals that are more prone to fungal infections
Most fungi are not dangerous, as they can cause a mild infection, which can be treated very easily. But individuals struggling due to weak immunity might develop dangerous effects of the infections. The infection can even have life-threatening consequences. Let us see who is susceptible to such infections:
- Individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS
- Those diagnosed with autoimmune disorders
- Individuals who had stem cell or bone marrow transplant
- Individuals having cancer
- Individuals who have an organ transplant
What are the types of antifungals?
Antifungal medicines can come in various types. One can opt for prescription as well as non-prescription options of such medicines. Various types include:
- Pills, capsules, or tablets
- Gels, ointments, or creams
- Oral liquid
- Vaginal suppositories in case of vaginal fungal infection
- Injections
How do antifungals work?
The function of antifungal medicines is to stop the fungus cells from growing and multiplying on the surface of the tissue. The medicines destroy the fungus from the surface and prevent the fungus from coming back.
Are there any side effects of antifungals?
Antifungals can sometimes cause some mild side effects, which include rashes, itchiness, burning sensation, redness, fever, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. These medicines can also give rise to rare side effects in some individuals. Which might cause them to develop a severe allergic reaction or experience liver damage.
Allergic reactions to antifungal medicines can lead to swelling or blister formation on the face, tongue, or neck. The individual might even experience trouble breathing. In the rarest case, the individual may develop a liver disorder.
Besides, one can make use of some effective home remedies for getting rid of fungal infections. The best thing about using home remedies is they are all-natural ingredients that are easily available in your kitchen, and you do not have to worry about getting any side reactions after their application.
Natural ways to destroy fungal infections
Use turmeric
Turmeric has strong antifungal and anti-microbial properties, which prevent the growth of the fungus cells and kills them off. Just mix some ground turmeric with a few drops of water to turn it into a thick paste and apply it to the affected area. Wash it off after the paste gets dried.
Apply aloe vera
Along with soothing and hydrating the affected area, aloe vera can kill off the bacteria from the tissue, as it has potent anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Extract the juice from the leaf of the aloe plant and apply it directly to the affected spot and wash it off after 15 minutes.
Try neem
Neem has potent anti-fungal properties. It is an effective fungicide that helps you to get rid of fungal infections. You can boil neem leaves in water for 5 minutes and add that water to your bathing water.
Honey
Raw honey contains more antifungal and antimycotic agents in comparison to pasteurized ones. It can ward off fungal cells from the surface of tissues and prevent the infection from coming back.
Tea tree oil
This oil must be used in combination with carrier oil, otherwise it can cause skin irritation. Tea tree oil is an effective remedy against fungal infections. It is packed with anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and anti-bacterial properties, which prevent any damage due to fungi, and cures the infection. Use coconut oil or olive oil along with tea tree oil.
Home Remedies
Home remedies can serve as an effective solution for fungal infections. But if you need fast results, then you can go for antifungal medicines. Such medicine may cause some side effects, but their effects can help you to get rid of the infection faster. On the contrary, home remedies are undoubtedly effective, and do not have any side effects, but might not give you instant results like antifungals. You can talk to your doctor in case you do not see any significant improvement in your condition.