Fungal Rash on Buttocks

Fungal rash on buttocks generally occurs uniformly on both the cheeks, and eventually it can be seen to get concentrated on the bottom of each cheek and within the folds. People who are on long-term use of antibiotics, or are suffering from obesity or diabetes are more prone to contracting this problem. This rash is also common in those who are incontinent, perspire heavily, have a loss of mobility or are using skin care products that are skin-irritants. In some cases, fungal rash on back may also be a problem with some people.

What Causes the Rash?

Fungal rash on buttocks could be commonly caused by fungal infections such as jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infection. The following describes the symptoms and treatment options for each of these types of infections.

Jock Itch
This infection is caused by the fungus called tinea. It is more common during summer months, or in warm, wet climates. Apart from buttocks, it also affects areas such as the inner thighs, and genitals. Symptoms include itching and reddening of the skin of these areas, apart from feeling a burning sensation. The skin at the groin area may start flaking, or peeling.

Over-the-counter antifungal topical medications are good enough to take care of jock itch. Common OTC medications include allylaminesm, and azoles. Sometimes, such medications are not good enough, and the affected person may require to use prescription-strength topical or oral antifungals. Econazole and oxiconazole are topical medications, while itraconazole (Sporanox), and fluconazole (Diflucan) are the oral ones.

Ringworm
This fungal infection is caused by microorganisms that live on the outer skin of the body as parasites. Its characteristic symptom, which also gets it its name, is a circular rash with a red and inflamed border, surrounding a normal spot of skin in the middle. It is also possible to develop the infection without this circular rash. Apart from affecting the buttocks, the infection may occur over the surface of the elbows, knees, scalp, area around the ears and that of the navel.

If the infection has affected a large area, usually, OTC medications do not help. So medications prescribed by the doctor must be considered. Common topical medication include butenafine (mentax) ciclopirox (loprox), and econazole to name a few. And oral ones include fluconazole (diflucan), itraconazole (sporanox), etc.

Yeast Infections
Caused by the yeast-like fungi candida, yeast infections are a common skin problem with many people. Although the infection may affect any skin surface, more commonly it is found in the armpits, and groin which makes the buttocks a vulnerable area. Symptoms apart from the red, and itchy rash on the buttocks and other areas, others include pimple-like bumps and burning sensation.

Similar to the treatment for problems mentioned above, even in this case, antifungal medications are used.

Points to Remember

Before applying any creams or lotions, it is advisable to clean the affected area gently and thoroughly. Care should be taken that the area is not rubbed. Pat the skin dry with a clean and dry towel. As the rash starts to heal, the skin tends to become dry and flaky. So to keep it hydrated and moist, you can apply moisturizers (creams, lotions). Do not forget to wash your hands, and wear gloves before treating the rash, and wash them again once you are done with it.

Prevention of Fungal Infection

# Ailments such as fungal rash on buttocks and other body parts, can be easily prevented. Moist and warm environment favor germs causing such problems. And what most people fail to do is to dry their skin well after having a bath or a shower. The vulnerability to contract the infection increases during summer months, when perspiration is more. So, one has to ensure to use every inch of a towel to dry himself/herself after bathing. Avoid using heavily perfumed bathing soaps. Such products usually irritate the skin, and worsen fungal rash. For those who use incontinence briefs, must avoid using ones that come with plastic liners. These products retain moisture and prevent the affected area from drying out. Leaving the briefs open would promote air circulation and help in healing the rash by keeping it dry.

# Try to avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, and especially tight-fitting briefs. It is advisable to wear loose-fitting briefs which are made of cotton fabric instead of nylon or polyester. Always wear clean and fresh clothes to prevent the risk of infection. However, it is not recommended to avoid wearing briefs that are too loose. Such briefs may cause friction between the skin from rubbing, and this may worsen the condition further.

# If the rash has occurred within the skin folds, then prevent the moisture from accumulating in the area, by placing a soft cloth or a cotton pad between the folds. This will help in keeping the skin dry and keep the infection from spreading further. Talcum powder could also be used in such areas to keep them dry.

Fungal rash tends to recur even after it has healed completely. This can be prevented by using a barrier cream which contains petrolatum, dimethicone and zinc oxide. Keeping the body well-hydrated by increasing fluid-intake is also one of the effective ways for preventing fungal infection and its symptoms.