The sun is fun and we enjoy lots of it here in the sunshine state, but if you are going to be out in it, please protect yourself. Read more below on how sun damage can cause cancer and many other health problems if you are not careful.
Irritated Skin? Itching, Redness, or Cracking? We Can Help.
Fungal infections are common and treatable — but left unaddressed, they can spread, worsen, and cause serious discomfort. At Meira Dermatology, we diagnose and treat all types of skin, nail, and scalp fungal infections using effective, medical-grade solutions tailored to your needs.
Fungal infections, also known as mycoses, are caused by microscopic fungi that live on dead skin cells, hair, or nails. While these organisms are usually harmless, they can multiply and cause infection in warm, moist environments or when your skin’s natural defenses are compromised.
Common types of fungal infections include:
- Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) – scaling, itching, or burning feet
- Ringworm (tinea corporis) – round, red, scaly patches on the body
- Jock itch (tinea cruris) – redness and itching in the groin area
- Yeast infections (candidiasis) – can affect the mouth, skin folds, or genitals
- Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) – thick, brittle, or discolored nails
- Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) – itchy, scaly patches with hair loss
Common symptoms include:
- Itching, burning, or stinging
- Cracked, scaly, or peeling skin
- Red, circular rashes (ring-like appearance)
- Discoloration or thickening of toenails/fingernails
- Blisters or oozing lesions
- Musty or sour odor from affected areas
Fungal infections are highly contagious and can spread through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
- Contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g., locker rooms, showers, gyms)
- Sharing towels, clothing, socks, or shoes
- Close contact with infected pets or animals
- Wearing tight, damp clothing for prolonged periods
To reduce your risk:
- Keep skin clean and dry, especially feet and skin folds
- Wear flip-flops in public showers and pools
- Choose breathable, loose-fitting clothing
- Rotate shoes and wear moisture-wicking socks
- Don’t share personal items like razors, towels, or footwear
- Use antifungal powders if you’re prone to infections
Most fungal infections respond well to early treatment, which may include:
Topical antifungal creams or sprays
Oral antifungal medications for stubborn or widespread infections
Prescription-strength treatments for nail or scalp fungus
Personalized care plans for chronic or recurring cases
We’ll assess the infection type, severity, and your skin health to create a treatment plan that works — safely and quickly.
If you experience:
- Symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
- A spreading rash or cracked skin that’s getting worse
- A fungal infection on your nails or scalp
- Recurring outbreaks or infections affecting quality of life
…it’s time to schedule an appointment. Fungal infections are not only irritating — they can lead to secondary bacterial infections if left untreated.
Meira Dermatology provides expert diagnosis and compassionate treatment for fungal infections throughout Largo, Clearwater, Seminole, Belleair, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Pinellas Park, and the greater Tampa Bay area.
8839 Bryan Dairy Rd, Suite 115, Largo, FL 33777
Call (727) 777-6098
Or schedule your skin evaluation online
Don’t suffer in silence — fungal infections are common, treatable, and preventable with the right care.
