Fungal infections are common throughout much of the natural world. In humans, fungal infections happen when an invading fungus takes over an area of the body and is too much for the immune system to handle.
Fungi can live in the air, soil, water, and plants. There are also some fungi that live naturally in the human body.
Fungal infections of the skin are very common and include athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections.
Types of fungal infections
Fungal infections are often described as
- Opportunistic
- Primary
Fungal infections can affect many areas of the body (systemic) or only one area (localized).
Symptoms
The symptoms of a fungal infection will depend on the type, but common symptoms contain the following:
- skin changes, including red and possibly cracking or peeling skin
- itching
Risk factors
Fungal infections are common in humans and are generally not very serious if they are treated quickly and correctly.
Anyone with a weakened immune system may be more likely to contract a fungal infection, as well as anyone who is taking antibiotics. Cancer treatment and diabetes may also make a person more prone to fungal infections.
Most fungal skin infections can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription creams. Severe infections may need additional methods.
Taking preventive action can go a long way towards avoiding fungal skin infections as well.
It is always best to notify a doctor at the first sign of infection to avoid possibly serious complications