
Representative picture | Photo Credit: Getty Images/Istockphoto
Moist weather and humid conditions after recent rains in Bengalur have caused a significant increase in fungal infections. Dermatologists warn that these infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to increasing mistake resistance.
Superficial fungal infections such as tinea or pump are limited to the farthest layers of skin, hair or nails and do not attack deeper tissues or organs.
At the ESIC Hospital Hospital in Rajajinagar, Mrs. Girish, senior specialist and head of dermatology, she said fungal infections are now a significant share in his daily outpatient stress. “Of the about 120 patients I see every day in OPD, around 30 comes with fungal infections. Every fourth patient I see daily has fungal infection and almost 30% of these cases do not respond to basic drugs,” he said.
Self -healing and resistance
According to Dr. Girish are self -healing and over -the -counter availability of anti -maza creams by the main resistance drivers. “When used in large quantities or for long -term duration, the sponge increases resistant. It is similar to antimicrobial resistance,” he explained.
He noted that incomplete treatment worsens the infection. “Patients stop treatment as soon as the symptoms disappear, but relapse is common and often more serious. Some creams have less than the required mistakes against mistakes and repeated use creates resistance, forcing us to choose for advanced treatment,” he said.
He raised concerns about steroid -based creams and said that the unacceptable combination of topical steroids with antifungals is used. “Excessive use of steroids deposits the skin. Itching can temporarily reduce, but it is not a solution,” he said.
The rule of two
To solve this, the Indian Association of Dermatologists, venereologists and leprologologists (IADVL) issued the “rule of two”. Patients are recommended to apply antifungal creams twice a day for at least two weeks after resolving visible lesions, which will prolong the application of two centimeters per area to ensure complete eradication and prevent repetition.
The Shireen Furtado, the head of the consultant – medical and cosmetic dermatology at the Aster CMI hospital, said that patients with recurrent fungal infections will experience a steady increase. “Ringworm, atte leg and nail sponge become very common and many cases are harder to heal than before. The main reason is that the fungus is slowly becoming resistant to drugs that we usually prescribe,” she said.
She stressed that abuse of creams and premature stopping of drug fuel relapses. “Many people buy drugs directly from the pharmacy. Some contain steroids that provide temporary relief but worsen infections. Patients also stop treatment as soon as itching or redness retreats even when the fungus remains and grows rapidly,” she explained.
Lifestyle and prevention
Dr. Furtado added that lifestyle factors also contribute. “The rise contributes damp and damp climate, sweating, tight clothing and non -hygienic practices. Shared spaces such as gyms, hostels and swimming pools, make it easier to spread mushrooms,” she said.
Both doctors emphasized the need for public awareness and responsible use of medicinal products against mistakes. Patients should consult with a dermatologist instead of self -healing, complete the prescribed course and monitor preventive measures such as maintaining skin dry, carrying clean clothing and not sharing towels.
Published – 13 September 2025 22:31 is





