Mushrooms and Pools
Infections by mushrooms they are known as and can appear on the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes. The areas of friction such as the axillary, mammary, inguinal and interdigital folds are the most frequently affected.
Dermatomycosis are transmitted directly (from person to person through contact with the skin) or indirectly (generally through the use of shared personal belongings and in an environment with abundant water and high temperature (such as saunas, changing rooms and gyms).
Fungi in the most frequent swimming pools and their ailments
There are different types of mycoses spread in swimming pools frequently, whose nature is different fungi. Next we will review the most common:
Pityriasis versicolor
Among the most frequent mycoses is the pityriasis versicolor, which consists of the appearance of spots on the skin (from white to brownish) that stand out especially when it tans. It is an infection caused by a microscopic fungus (Malassezia furfur) and is easily treated with the appropriate antifungal or antifungal agents.
Athlete's foot
Another fungal infection associated with the habit of going barefoot is known as. It is characterized by the appearance of redness on the feet (typically in the interdigital area) and the appearance of painful grooves or fissures together with whitish plaques that peel off.
This infection also requires a treatment with topical antifungals for several weeks, which have the drawback that they can be irritating to the skin.
The easiest way to prevent athlete's foot is to avoid going barefoot in public places and wash and dry your feet well. They must be inspected regularly to detect the problem.
Candidiasis
they are also more frequent in the summer season. Its cause is multifactorial including excess genital hygiene (the balance of the vaginal flora is disturbed), hormonal alterations (pregnancy), diabetes, wearing too tight clothes, etc. The indicated treatment is the administration of antifungal creams or vaginal ovules.
Most fungal infections respond to topical treatment, although sometimes it is not enough and treatment with oral drugs. The most important thing is to go to a good dermatologist. The insurance companies have an excellent team of dermatology specialists who will offer you an assessment of your condition.
Dermatomycosis prevention tips
- Do not walk barefoot in public places such as saunas and swimming pools, this will avoid mushrooms.
- Use socks natural fibers (yarn and cotton) not synthetic.
- Wear shoes with leather soles and natural materials, not synthetic.
- Dry off the skin well after washing, especially at the level of the interdigital spaces.
- Extreme personal hygiene: wash the areas of friction such as the folds daily, avoid drying by scrubbing excessively.
- Avoid prolonged baths (no longer than 10-15 minutes) and especially with prolonged exposure in hot water.
- Disinfect contaminated personal hygiene items such as towels, making individual use of them.
- Wear clothing from cotton.
- Disinfect the floors of showers and changing rooms.
- Especially if you have athlete's foot, avoid walking barefoot on rugs and carpets.
Intensive Medicine Specialist
(Updated at Apr 13 / 2024)