Rise in fungal skin infections due to fluctuating weather, warn docs

Nagpur: Skin specialists from Vidarbha who were in the city on Sunday for a conference organized by Vidarbha Dermatological Society (VDS) highlighted a concerning trend — a rise in fungal skin infections this year due to the fluctuating weather.

Dr Vijay Zawar, the immediate past national president of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL), emphasized the importance of early consultation.

“Fungal infections are a common occurrence in summer. However, people often delay seeking professional help from a dermatologist, leading to potential complications,” said Dr Zawar. He attributed the delay to the easy availability of over-the-counter creams and lotions.

“While these medications may offer temporary relief, they often contain steroids which can exacerbate the infection in the long run,” cautioned Dr Zawar. He stressed the importance of consulting a qualified dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. “Early intervention allows us to prescribe more affordable medications that are effective,” he said.

Dr Zawar further advised patients to adhere strictly to the prescribed course of treatment and avoid using medications beyond the recommended duration.

Dr Sarang Gode, the newly appointed president of the VDS, expressed concern on the rise of allergies, eczema, and fungal infections in rural areas. He attributed this to a combination of environmental factors like pollution and changes in weather.

Dr Gode emphasized the importance of seeking care from qualified dermatologists with an MBBS degree and an MD specialization in dermatology. “Dermatology is a distinct field within modern medicine. Patients should be wary of individuals practising without proper qualifications,” he said.

Nagpur’s Dr Shraddha Mahalle, the new secretary of VDS, emphasized the connection between lifestyle and skin health. “Childhood obesity is on the rise, and it can lead to skin problems like darkening around the neck and infections under the arms. Making healthy lifestyle changes and losing weight can actually improve your skin tone. So, get moving and eat right,” she said.

The conference concluded with the dermatologists emphasizing the importance of personalized skincare based on skin type. They advised against self-diagnosis and urged people to consult qualified dermatologists for proper summer skincare routines and to address any concerns regarding fungal infections promptly.

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