FUNGAL INFECTIONS

    Several considerations are involved in understanding fungi. These organisms belong to the plant kingdom and are found on all healthy skin. Opportunistic forms of fungi that take advantage of a person s weakened immune system cause many infections. As such, fungal infections are common in people receiving x-ray therapy, taking birth control drugs, steroids, or antibiotics, diabetics, burn victims, and people with tuberculosis or emphysema. Many infections develop during tropical vacations or military service.

    Severity can vary from a mild rash on the skin to fatal overgrowth in the lungs. When the infection is localized, it is more easily treated than if it has invaded a major organ. Because of the many forms of fungal infections, microscopic examination of the affected tissue, hair shaft, or sputum is helpful in making a diagnosis. Fungal infections fail to respond to antibiotics and can successfully be treated with Melaleuca oil.
    Fungal infections have different names depending on the area of the body affected:
    Face and Neck (Tinea barbae) See the section on Barber's Rash
    Feet (Tinea pedis) See the section on Athlete's Foot
    Groin (Tinea cruris) See the section on Jock Itch
    Nails (Tinea ungium) See the section on Paronychia
    Scalp (Tinea capitis) See the section on Ringworm
    Skin (Tinea corporis) See the section on Ringworm
    * For common fungal infections, wash the affected areas with Antibacterial Liquid Soap. Dry the area and apply Renew Intensive Skin Therapy or Moisturizing Hand Creme. For acute outbreaks apply T36-C5 followed by MelaGel or Triple Antibiotic Ointment. Repeat at least 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days.
An alternate choice would be to use Dermatin Antifungal Creme with clotrimazole and Melaleuca oil. Consult your health care provider for further advice.