When people think about fungal infections, they rarely consider that these infections could affect our hair. And, while fungal infections are more common in other areas of the body that can easily retain moisture (feet, groin, buttocks), they can also appear on the hair. One of such infections is white piedra.
In this article, we will be going over the most common white piedra symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
What Is White Piedra?
A rare fungal infection that affects the hair shaft, white piedra is caused by a type of fungus called trichosporon. The infection is not considered contagious or dangerous, and it presents with rather mild symptoms compared to some other fungal infections.
White Piedra Symptoms and Risk Factors
The typical symptoms of white piedra are gelatinous white nodules that surround the hair shaft. Apart from the hair on our heads, these nodules are also found in our body and facial hair (like the armpits, beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic hair).
Other common symptoms of this infection include broken hair, itching, pain, and hair that may feel gritty. The infection can affect all ages and sexes, but it seems to be most common in young men. It’s also more common in the humid-to-temperate climate.
Treatment Options
The first step towards treating this infection is cutting off the affected hair. That alone may be enough to get rid of the fungus. If not, your doctor may prescribe you an antifungal shampoo, cream, or even oral antifungal medications in some cases.
The Bottom Line
So, there you go – the most common white piedra symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. If you notice white nodules that surround your hair shaft, contact your doctor so he or she can exclude some other conditions and prescribe you the medication you need.
