fungal skin on one side

Overview

A fungal skin infection is a common skin problem caused by tiny fungi that live on the outer layer of skin, hair, or nails. When they grow too much, they can cause itchy, scaly, dry patches. A patch that appears 'on one side' simply means the infection is in one area of the body. It can happen to anyone and is not a sign that you are unclean.

Yes. Fungal skin infections affect millions of people every year. They are among the most common skin problems seen by family doctors worldwide.

They affect people of all ages and backgrounds. You are more likely to get one if you sweat a lot, spend time in warm damp environments, wear tight footwear, share towels or sports equipment, or have a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• An itchy, scaly, red or silvery patch of skin
• A ring-shaped rash with a clearer area in the middle
• Dry, cracked or peeling skin
• Mild stinging or burning
• One or more patches that grow slowly

Symptoms in children

• Itchy scaly patches on the body or face
• Patchy hair loss on the scalp with small black dots
• A rash that spreads to siblings or pets

Symptoms in older adults

• Skin that looks dry and cracked more than red
• Mild itching that is easy to ignore
• Skin folds that stay damp and sore
• An infection that is noticed later because symptoms are subtle

Causes

Main causes

• Tiny fungi called dermatophytes that feed on keratin, the protein in skin, hair and nails
• Contact with an infected person, animal or object such as towels, combs or gym mats
• Warm, damp skin, which allows fungi to multiply

Risk factors

• Sweating heavily or wearing damp clothes for long periods
• Walking barefoot in shared showers and changing rooms
• Sharing towels, clothing, bedding or hairbrushes
• Wearing tight, non-breathable shoes
• Having diabetes, obesity, or a condition that weakens immunity

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You see severe swelling, blistering, oozing or spreading redness
• The rash is painful as well as itchy
• You have a high temperature or feel generally unwell
• The person affected is very young, elderly, or has a weakened immune system
• The rash is on the face, scalp or near the eyes

Book a routine appointment if:

• A scaly patch has not improved after two weeks of simple self-care
• The rash keeps coming back
• You are unsure whether it is fungal, eczema or another skin condition
• Other family members or pets also have patches of itchy, scaly skin

Diagnosis

A doctor can usually diagnose a fungal skin infection by looking at the rash and asking about your symptoms and activities. In some cases, they may take a small scraping of skin to confirm which fungus is causing it.

Tests that may be done

• Skin scraping: a small sample of skin is scraped off gently and checked under a microscope
• Fungal culture: a sample is sent to a lab to see whether fungi grow
• Wood's lamp examination: the skin is viewed under a special ultraviolet light in a dark room

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment is straightforward and rarely uncomfortable. The doctor may ask how long the patch has been there, whether it itches, and whether you have used any creams. If a lab test is needed, results can take one to three weeks.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves antifungal medicines applied to the skin. The goal is to clear the fungus and stop it from spreading. It also helps to keep the area dry, avoid sharing personal items, and continue treatment for the full time recommended, even after the rash starts to fade.

Self-care at home

• Wash the affected area gently every day and pat it dry thoroughly
• Keep skin folds dry, especially under breasts, in the groin and between toes
• Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing and change socks or underwear daily
• Wash your hands after touching the rash
• Do not share towels, combs, shoes or sports equipment
• Avoid scratching; cover the area lightly at night if needed

Medical treatments

Doctors commonly prescribe antifungal creams, lotions, sprays or powders to apply once or twice a day for several weeks. If the infection is widespread, on the scalp or nails, or does not improve with creams, an oral antifungal medicine (taken by mouth) may be recommended. The specific treatment depends on the site and severity, and should always be completed fully.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for fungal skin infections. If a fungal nail infection is very severe, a healthcare professional may discuss other removal methods, but this is not surgery in the usual sense and is only considered after other treatments.

Living with this condition

During treatment, use a clean towel every day and do not share it. Let any cream absorb fully before getting dressed. Keep your fingernails short and avoid scratching. Wash towels, bedding and clothes in warm water, and let your skin breathe whenever possible.

Lifestyle tips

• Change out of sweaty clothes and shower after exercise
• Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in communal changing areas
• Alternate pairs of shoes so they can dry out between wearings
• Keep your skin moisturised but dry in the folds
• Check pets for patches of fur loss or scaly skin

Diet and exercise

There is no specific diet that cures a fungal skin infection. Eating a balanced diet helps your skin stay healthy and supports your body's immune defence. After exercise, shower promptly and dry yourself thoroughly before putting on clean clothes.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A visible rash can feel embarrassing, but it is very common and not your fault. Most people respond well to treatment. If the rash is affecting your confidence or sleep, tell your doctor; they can offer practical and emotional support.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent a fungal skin infection, but you can lower the risk by keeping skin dry, not sharing personal items, wearing footwear in communal areas, and treating infected pets and household members at the same time.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for fungal skin infections.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for fungal skin infections. Checking your skin when you wash and seeing a doctor about new or persistent patches is the best approach.

Complications

If left untreated

• The infection can spread to other parts of your own skin
• It can spread to other people in your household
• Scratching can lead to a secondary bacterial infection, with oozing, crusting and pain
• In rare cases, the infection can become widespread or deeper in people with weakened immunity or diabetes

Long-term outlook

With the right treatment, fungal skin infections usually clear up within a few weeks. Some people need a longer course, but the outlook is very good. Seeking help early makes treatment easier and helps you feel comfortable in your skin again.

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