Wet weather triggers a rise in skin ailments

With rains, comes a range of skin ailments. Fungal infections are the most common during the rainy season. Dermatologists in the city say that of late, they have been seeing a number of patients with drug resistance fungal infections necessitating prolonged treatment.

Speaking to Deccan Herald, Dr Sudheendra Udbalker, consultant dermatologist, Fortis Hospitals, expressed concern over drug resistant variety of infections.

“Many a time, patients do not complete their treatment course. Sometimes, they are under-treated. All these could contribute to drug resistance. Hence, the present medication would not be of much help. There is a need to have a new drug formulation on the market shelves,” he added.

Dr T S Vidya, president, Bangalore Dermatological Society said that at least 60% of the outpatient cases that she sees are fungal infections. Spreading through touch due to overcrowding, this would have symptoms such as itching and patches that appear to be in the form of rings.

“It could get misdiagnosed. Sometimes, patients also try home remedies and when they do not work, they come to professionals. On itching, if the patient has scratched, there are chances of developing bacterial infection as well,” she said.

She said fungal infections occur either due to long-term contact with moisture like in rainy seasons or because of wearing damp clothes. Even in summers, infections could arise due to excessive sweating.

Dr Vidya said that often, patients are put on a dose of steroids which might give them temporary relief. Chances are that it would bounce back more strongly.

Apart from this, the dermatologist said that use of anti-fungals for too long could lead to resistance.

 “Sometimes, patients do not go by the prescription. Some might take medication and on feeling better after a few days, they discontinue it. They see a relapse. Since the medication was discontinued, they would have developed resistance,” Vidya said and suggested that patients follow the prescription and dosage prescribed by professionals.
DH News Service