Fungal infections are common. They come in several different forms and can attack people of all ages. Here’s how they do it.
Fungi are transferred by close contact, so from body to body or from an infected surface such as a garment or a wet floor. Fungi can live on things like a comb, shower surface, or pool area. Although any part of the body can be affected, fungal infections most often occur in moist, warm areas of the body. That's because those areas provide the ideal conditions for fungi to thrive.
Athlete's foot fungus under a microscope.
Athlete’s foot and jock itch are types of tinea, a fungal infection of the hair, skin, or nails. Symptoms of tinea typically include various degrees of itching and burning. Frequently, the skin may peel, and in particularly severe cases, there may be some cracking, pain, and bleeding as well. One of the most irritating things about fungal infection is that maddening itching. However, some people have no symptoms at all and do not know they have an infection. Fungal infections are usually not serious and, when treated properly and efficiently, are relatively easy to clear up. However, for those people who do not have a normal immune system, such as someone with diabetes, a fungal infection can be more serious.
It is best to prevent the spread of infection before treatment is necessary. If you’re unsure about an infection, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional. Infections like jock itch are common, but itching can also be caused by other problems. It’s important to confirm that you have a fungal infection before treating.
The best way to know for sure if you have a fungal infection is to ask your healthcare provider. Other skin problems have similar appearances and can feel the same, but need very different treatments.