Sweat Rash vs Fungal Infection – Spot the Difference”

“Sweat Rash vs Fungal Infection – Spot the Difference”

By Dr. Rizwan Khan | Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

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It starts with itching.

You feel a burning or prickly sensation, especially in folds — underarms, neck, thighs, under the breast, or groin.

You look in the mirror and see red patches.

Now the big question:

Is it just a sweat rash? Or is it a fungal infection?

This confusion is very common in summer — and getting it wrong means wrong treatment.

Let’s break it down in simple words.

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🔍 What Is Sweat Rash?

Also called “heat rash” or “prickly heat”, this happens when your sweat glands get blocked.

The trapped sweat irritates the skin.

Signs of Sweat Rash:

• Tiny red or pink bumps

• Burning or prickly feeling

• Often on neck, back, underarms, chest

• Happens more in hot, humid weather

• No major spreading

• Usually gets better on its own with cooling and powders

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🔬 What Is Fungal Infection?

Also known as “daad” or ringworm, this is caused by a fungus that grows in warm, sweaty areas.

Signs of Fungal Infection:

• Red patch with clearer skin in the center

• Itching gets worse at night

• Appears in groin, thighs, under breast, waistline

• Edges are slightly raised and more red

• Can spread to others (especially in shared spaces)

• Needs proper anti-fungal creams or tablets

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📌 Quick Comparison Table:

Feature	Sweat Rash	Fungal Infection
Appearance	Small red bumps or rash	Red patch with clear center, raised edge
Itching	Mild to moderate	Often severe, especially at night
Spreads?	No	Yes (to other body parts or people)
Feels like	Burning or prickling	Constant irritation, sometimes burning
Heals with	Cooling, powders, hygiene	Anti-fungal treatment
Common in	Hot weather	Hot + sweaty + unclean areas

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🚫 Common Mistakes People Make:

❌ Using steroid creams (like quadriderm or panderm) on fungal infections – gives temporary relief but makes it worse long term.

❌ Confusing the two – using powder on fungal infection doesn’t help. And using strong creams on sweat rash can irritate more.

❌ Ignoring hygiene – wearing tight clothes, reusing sweaty clothes, or using shared towels.

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✅ How We Manage These at the Clinic:

At Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic, we:

• Examine the skin closely

• Do a KOH test if needed (for fungal confirmation)

• Prescribe targeted treatment (not just any cream)

• Help you change small habits that reduce recurrence

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💡 Tips to Prevent Both:

• Wear loose cotton clothes

• Take a bath twice a day in summers

• Use a mild antifungal powder (if you sweat a lot)

• Avoid tight underwear or jeans for long hours

• Dry yourself properly, especially after gym or bath

• Don’t share towels, soaps, or razors

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🧴 Final Word:

If you’re unsure whether it’s just a heat rash or something more serious like fungal infection, don’t guess.

Guesswork leads to delay, and that can make things worse.

📍Visit our clinic in Shahjahanpur or send us a skin photo for online advice.

Let’s clear the itch – the right way.