Fungal Infections (Beekh Kata, Ringworm) – Causes, Symptoms & Advanced Treatments

What Are Fungal Infections?

Fungal infections, commonly called قارچ or Ringworm, are caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungi that infect the skin, hair, and nails. These infections are highly contagious and can spread through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or shared personal items like towels, combs, or clothing.

Fungal infections are more common in warm, humid climates, and anyone can get infected, though people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.

Common Types of Fungal Infections

1. Tinea Corporis (Body Ringworm): Red, circular, itchy patches on the body
2. Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): Hair loss, scaling, and inflammation on the scalp
3. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): Cracked, peeling, and itchy skin between toes
4. Tinea Unguium (Nail Fungus): Thickened, brittle, or discolored nails
5. Other Areas: Groin (Tinea Cruris), hands (Tinea Manuum), and face (Tinea Faciei)

Causes and Risk Factors

• Direct Contact: Touching infected individuals or animals
• Contaminated Items: Towels, bedding, combs, or shared clothing
• Warm & Humid Conditions: Fungi thrive in sweat-prone areas
• Weakened Immune System: Diabetes, HIV, or long-term steroid use
• Poor Hygiene: Not keeping skin clean and dry increases risk
• Other Skin Conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis

Symptoms of Fungal Infections

• Red, circular, scaly patches
• Itching, burning, or stinging sensation
• Hair loss in scalp infections
• Thickened, yellow, or brittle nails
• Blisters or oozing in severe cases

Diagnosis at Arvin Skin & Aesthetic Hospital

• Clinical Examination: Visual inspection of affected areas
• Wood’s Lamp Test: Helps identify fungal infections under UV light
• Skin Scraping & Microscopy: Confirms fungal presence
• Culture Test: Identifies exact fungal species for precise treatment

Advanced Treatments

1. Topical Antifungal Creams & Ointments: Clotrimazole, Ketoconazole for mild to moderate cases
2. Oral Antifungal Medications: Fluconazole, Itraconazole for severe or persistent infections
3. Medicated Shampoos: For scalp infections, prevent spread
4. Laser Therapy: For stubborn nail or skin fungal infections
5. PRP / PRF Therapy: Supports skin and hair recovery
6. Lifestyle & Hygiene Recommendations:
   • Keep skin dry and clean
   • Avoid sharing personal items
   • Change socks and underwear daily
   • Wear breathable clothing

Prevention

• Wash hands and body regularly
• Dry skin completely after bathing or swimming
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
• Maintain clean personal items
• Seek early treatment for minor fungal infections

📍 Address: Arvin Skin Hospital, Dehburi Square, Kabul – Afghanistan
📞 Contact: 07660053556 – 0766005357