Monsoon is a season of joy and relief. But it also poses challenges and risks to your health. The humid and damp weather creates a favourable environment for fungi to grow and infect your skin, nails, hair, and other body parts. Fungal infections can cause itching, burning, redness, swelling, cracking, peeling, or blistering of the affected areas. Neglecting treatment or allowing them to spread to other organs can result in severe complications.
Fortunately, there are multiple ways to keep fungal infections at bay during the monsoon and enjoy the rains without worrying about your health. However, when the infection affects your well-being, individual health insurance can be your savior in the worst circumstances. Keep scrolling to learn about them.
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Tips to Prevent Fungal Infections During Monsoon
Here are some tips that can help you prevent fungal infections during monsoon –
1. Keep your skin clean and dry
Fungi thrive in moist and warm areas of your body, such as your feet, groin, armpits, and skin folds. Therefore, you should wash your skin with soap and water at least twice daily, especially after sweating or getting wet in the rain. You should also dry your skin thoroughly with a clean towel or a hairdryer. Avoid wearing wet clothes or shoes for a long time, as they can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for fungi.
2. Wear breathable clothes
You can prevent fungal infections by wearing breathable, loose-fitting clothes that allow air circulation and prevent overheating your body. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, polyester, or spandex. They trap sweat and moisture and may irritate your skin. You should also avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes like jeans, leggings, or underwear, as they can rub against your skin and cause friction and chafing. Instead, opt for cotton or linen clothes. They are comfortable and have absorbent capability.
3. Change your clothes
Regularly changing your clothes and socks is essential during the monsoon season, especially if wet or dirty. Damp or soiled clothing can become a breeding ground for infection-causing fungi and bacteria. Always wash your clothes with hot water using detergent. Ensure they are dried thoroughly under the sun or using a dryer. Additionally, it is important to avoid sharing your clothing or socks with others, as this can lead to the transmission or acquisition of fungal infections.
4. Avoid walking barefoot
During the monsoon season, it is advisable to refrain from walking barefoot, particularly in muddy or dirty water. Such environments may harbour fungi and other microorganisms that can enter your skin through cuts or cracks, leading to infections. Additionally, avoiding going barefoot in public places like pools, showers, locker rooms, or gyms is essential, as you could contract fungal infections from others.
To protect your feet, always wear appropriate footwear like shoes or sandals that shield them from water and dirt. After walking barefoot, cleanse your feet with soap and water, followed by thorough drying.
5. Trim your nails regularly
Fungal infections can lead to discolouration, thickening, cracking, or even nail crumbling. They may spread to other nails or the surrounding skin if left untreated. Remember to trim your nails straight across to prevent this, avoiding excessively short or rounded cuts.
Furthermore, refrain from biting or picking at your nails or cuticles, which could cause damage and introduce fungi. Always use clean and sterilised nail-cutting tools for your safety, and avoid sharing them with others.
6. Apply antifungal creams or powders
Suppose you observe any indications of fungal infection, such as itching, burning, redness, swelling, cracking, peeling, or blistering. In that case, it is recommended to apply antifungal creams or powders to your skin or nails. These products can help eradicate the fungi and prevent their further spread. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label and apply them for the prescribed duration.
Should the infection persist or worsen despite using antifungal creams or powders, it is advisable to seek advice from your doctor.
7. Boost your immunity
During the monsoon, boosting your immunity is crucial. Your immunity is your body’s natural defense against foreign invaders, such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
To boost your immunity, consume a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and probiotics. Ensure you stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water to flush out toxins. Regular exercise also aids in improving blood circulation and oxygen delivery to your cells. Furthermore, getting enough sleep is crucial for resting and repairing your body.
Conclusion
Fungal infections are common during the monsoon season but can be prevented by following simple tips above. However, if you get a fungal infection, you should not ignore it or self-medicate. Utilise your cashless health insurance and seek medical attention at a network hospital as soon as possible to avoid complications and get proper treatment. The best health insurance policy will cover your pharmacy bills, consultation charges, and other expenses when treating this infection.
