Bengaluru: The rain may not have been as intense as last year, but Bengaluru’s prolonged spell of overcast skies and humid weather has created favourable conditions for fungal infections to thrive, doctors say. Persistent humidity, reduced sunlight and slower evaporation of sweat have contributed to a noticeable rise in skin and yeast infections among both adults and children over the past few weeks.“There has been a definite increase in cases of superficial fungal infections among adults and children,” said Dr Aravinda SN, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine at Aster RV Hospital. He said doctors are frequently encountering conditions such as tinea corporis (ringworm), athlete’s foot and candidiasis, which typically present as itchy, red or scaly rashes affecting skin folds, the groin and the spaces between the toes.Although Bengaluru has not experienced prolonged heavy rainfall, Dr Aravinda said the city’s consistently humid and cloudy weather is sufficient to trigger fungal infections. “Humidity prevents sweat from evaporating, leaving the skin damp for longer periods. Clothing and footwear can trap this moisture, creating an ideal environment for fungal growth,” he explained.Dermatologists said people who sweat excessively or remain in damp clothes for extended periods are particularly vulnerable. Dr Ambika Kumar, consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist at SPARSH Hospital, Yeshwanthpur, said athletes, gym-goers, delivery personnel, traffic police, construction workers and others who spend long hours in closed footwear or tight clothing face a higher risk.“People with diabetes, obesity, weakened immunity or a history of recurrent skin infections are also more susceptible. Children and older adults may develop infections if proper hygiene is not maintained or if towels and clothing are shared,” she said.Doctors are also reporting an increase in yeast infections among women during the humid spell. Dr Sunitha Mahesh, Medical Director and senior consultant-gynaecologist at Milann Birthing Hospital, said: “Moist weather promotes fungal growth, particularly in women who are already predisposed because of diabetes or compromised immunity. Prolonged dampness around the genital area, including wearing wet undergarments for extended periods, can further increase the risk.” She said that the most common symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge, itching, redness, and pain around the genital area.Maintaining good personal hygiene, changing out of wet clothes promptly and following a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing infections, she added. “Keeping diabetes under control, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can also reduce the risk of recurrent fungal infections.”Children are not immune either. Dr Chandrika S Bhat, consultant-paediatric Rheumatology at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, said: “Fungal infections in children often appear as red, ring-shaped rashes with raised borders, accompanied by itching, flaking or peeling skin. Some children may also complain of a burning sensation or develop cracked skin. Scalp fungal infections can present as itchy, scaly patches with hair loss or broken hairs, while infants commonly develop bright red diaper rashes with smaller surrounding spots due to yeast infections.”Inset: Common symptomsItching or burning sensationRed, scaly or ring-shaped rashPeeling or flaky skinWhite or thick abnormal vaginal discharge (in yeast infections)Redness, irritation or pain in the affected areaInset 2: Precautionary measures:Keep the skin clean and dry, especially skin folds and between the toes.Change out of wet or sweat-soaked clothes, socks and undergarments immediately.Wear loose-fitting cotton clothes and breathable footwear.Do not share towels, combs, socks, footwear or clothing.Avoid using over-the-counter steroid creams and complete prescribed antifungal treatment.Consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist, spread or recur.
