Scalp fungus is a common problem in modern dermatology. And although the first stages of the development of the disease can proceed without any visible symptoms and not cause discomfort to a person, treatment is necessary here. If left untreated, fungal infections can lead to partial or complete baldness.
Where does scalp fungus come from?
Modern medicine knows dozens of varieties of fungal skin lesions. Each disease is accompanied by different symptoms. As for the pathogens themselves, there is a very large group of pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms that can affect the scalp.
Transmission paths can also be different. But in most cases, you can catch the infection during close contact with a sick person. Sometimes there is also a household infection when sharing hygiene items, towels, combs, bed linen, etc.
Of course, an outbreak of activity of conditionally pathogenic fungi - saprophytes - can also lead to the development of the disease. SimilarMicroorganisms are "permanent residents" of human skin, but their numbers are strictly regulated by the immune system. Therefore, the fungus of the scalp is often observed against the background of a decrease in the body's defenses. Risk factors also include diseases of the endocrine system and hormonal imbalances.
The most common scalp lesions include seborrhea, athlete's foot, trichophytosis, versicolor and favus.
Scalp fungus: symptoms and signs of the disease
The clinical picture directly depends on the type of infection and the severity of the disease. However, some common symptoms can be identified. A scalp fungus is usually accompanied by dry skin and severe itching. Most often, the lesions are oval in shape.
The main symptoms include redness and sometimes swelling of the scalp. Since it is affected by fungi, it becomes dry, sensitive and covered with microcracks, often the disease is associated with secondary infection. In turn, with such a complication, small pustules are often formed. As the disease progresses, the skin begins to flake and crust over white, yellowish, or even brown.
In most cases, the fungus affects not only the skin itself, but also the hair follicles. Against the background of an infection, the hair thins noticeably - the hair becomes brittle, dull and thin. For example, with microsporia, the hairs break off at a distance of about 5-7 millimeters fromsurface of the skin, and the remaining fibers become whitish.
How to treat scalp fungus?
With a similar problem, it is best to immediately contact a dermatologist or trichologist. After all, only a specialist knows what a fungus of the scalp looks like, symptoms, treatment of the disease. But self-medication is not worth it. Do not forget that if not properly treated, the infection can spread to the deeper layers of the skin, and sometimes even to the nails and mucous membranes.
Fortunately, modern medicine has a host of really effective antifungal drugs. As a rule, special shampoos, gels or hair masks containing ketoconazole and other active substances are used for this purpose. In particular, Nizoral shampoo is considered quite effective today. In more severe cases, systemic treatment is required - patients are prescribed medications such as Fluconazole, Levorin and Terbinafine.
You can use some methods of traditional medicine. For example, a few drops of tea tree oil, jojoba oil, or eucalyptus oil can be added to the water for washing your hair, as they have antiseptic properties, while moisturizing and soothing the skin.
