Kathmandu, June 2

The number of people suffering from skin diseases is increasing in Kathmandu valley. People are mainly suffering from melasma, fungal infection and allergies.

“People suffer from melasma when they are exposed to the sun. Melasma is seen among people with the onset of summer season,” said Dr Rabindra Sharma, dermatologist at Civil Hospital. Melasma appear mainly on cheeks, nose, forehead, chin and above the upper lip. It can also appear in other body parts exposed to the sun.

From among the 100 patients visiting the dermatology out-patient department, 15 people are found to be suffering from melasma. From among the melasma patients, 90 per cent are women. It is common during pregnancy.

Some women are sensitive to estrogen and progesterone hormones. This is why it is seen in women aged between 15 to 49 years of old, according to Dr Sharma.

The number of people suffering from fungal infection has also increased of late. “People working in fields, cleaners and women performing household chores such as washing and cleaning are found to be suffering from fungal infections.

Those who remain in continuous touch with water, soap and detergent are prone fungal infections,” said Dr Sharma.

Use of antifungal cream and powder and avoiding detergent and soap can prevent the fungal infections, as per the doctor.

Swimmer's itch is an itchy rash that is commonly seen in swimmers. “They are likely to suffer from rashes usually caused by an allergic reaction to parasites that burrow into skin while one is swimming. The itchy rash looks like reddish pimples or blisters. They may appear within minutes or days after swimming in contaminated water,” added the doctor.

People are also found to be suffering from ring worm infection and allergic reactions in this season. Children are found to be suffering from insect bite allergies. Playing with dogs, cats and other animals can lead to insect bite allergies, as per the doctor.