Is a Fungal Infection at Play?

In the skin world, it's easy to meet some remarkable people. We are always trying to learn the new best thing for our skin, and blessings sometimes fall into our lap.

Infected eczema

Whenever the word "infection" is muttered, it usually has to do with bacteria. Our world is filled with antibiotic prescriptions. However, what about a fungal infection?

Fungus can present in many different ways and feeds off of moisture on our skin and sugar in our bodies. Excess of these can set this infection ablaze.

Personal experience

After two, back to back, hip surgeries last year, I developed a rash that spread on the inside of my legs, my face, and my neck. I was itchy and red, and I felt my skin had a certain smell. A friend of mine saw my inner thigh and stated, "I think you have a fungal infection. It looks just like what my husband had a few years ago."

And she was right. My dermatologist put me on an anti-fungal oral, plus a prescription cream, as well as recommended I use an anti-fungal shampoo on my body. After a few weeks, it went away, thankfully. Nonetheless, fungal infections can be very persistent and hard to get rid of in most cases. I truly feel mine never fully went away. It is not only an external issue, but an internal one.

Rachel's journey

This is in no way medical advice, but a wonderful anecdotal experience from an acquaintance I met online. She, too, has experienced topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) and felt her skin issues were more than just regular eczema.

What made her think she had a fungal infection?

Rachel compiled a list of symptoms that aroused her suspicions that she, indeed, did have fungal overgrowth.

• Itchiness around heat or moisture (like steam from the shower)
• Rashes in creased areas (like under the breasts, eyes, elbows and knees)
• A distinct odor (like cheese or beer)
• The rashes had a distinct border

What she found helped, externally

In order to help her skin, Rachel devised her own plan of attack that worked super well for her. However, always consult with your doctor for a professional opinion. Nonetheless, I find her approach fascinating and pretty dead on.

• Nizarol shampoo every few days - Use it on the affected areas, not just the scalp. She didn't use on her face because it felt too harsh.
• Vanicream Z-Bar - It can be very drying, so take a break if it becomes too drying.
• Limited bathing, especially hot showers - Fungus thrives in moisture.
• No tight clothing
• No heavy moisturizers - Anything occlusive doesn't help. She even did NMT (no moisture therapy) through this and felt it helped her progress.
• Dehumidifier - Keep out that extra moisture.

What she felt helped, internally

• 2 rounds of Fluconazole (anti-fungal medication prescribed by a doctor) - This is a drug that can be harsh on your liver. Possibly have them check your liver function beforehand.
• Cut/Limit sugar of any kind - Some clinicians see a cup or two of fruit won't harm you, but Rachel went full cut out. I'll even throw in that fruits like papaya may even HELP clear a fungal infection (that's Medical Medium talk).
• Mindfulness - When she had a sugar craving, she knew it was the fungus talking - don't give in. The cravings will subside.
• Her diet - Keep it simple - proteins, fats, good carbs, and lots of veggies.

Overall

You shouldn't treat a fungal infection with topical steroids. If you feel you do have a fungal infection, you can have a swab done by your doctor. Having them do a biopsy won't be helpful.

Clinical nutritionist, Jennifer Fugo, talks extensively about fungal infections on her podcast: Skinterrupt Podcast

I hope this was helpful in any way! Navigating our skin can be such a conundrum!