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What causes skin yeast infections. Skin Yeast Infections: Causes, Symptoms, Types, and Treatment Options

by alexxlab

What are the common causes of skin yeast infections. How can you identify the symptoms of a fungal skin infection. What are the different types of yeast infections that affect the skin. Which treatment options are most effective for skin yeast infections.

Understanding Fungal Skin Infections: An Overview

Fungal skin infections, also known as mycoses, are caused by various species of fungi that can colonize the skin. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, moist environments and can lead to a range of skin problems, from minor irritations to more severe conditions. With millions of fungal species existing in our environment, it’s crucial to understand how they can affect our skin health.

Fungi are ubiquitous organisms found in soil, on plants, household surfaces, and even on our skin. While many are harmless, some can opportunistically cause infections when conditions are favorable. These infections can occur anywhere on the body and may present with various symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Fungal Skin Infections

  • Irritation and redness
  • Scaly or flaky skin
  • Itching and burning sensations
  • Swelling in the affected area
  • Formation of blisters
  • Rashes or bumps on the skin

Do fungal infections always cause visible symptoms? Not necessarily. In some cases, fungal infections may be asymptomatic or cause only mild discomfort. However, if left untreated, they can progress and lead to more noticeable and uncomfortable symptoms.

Athlete’s Foot: A Common Fungal Foe

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is one of the most prevalent fungal skin infections. It primarily affects the feet, especially the areas between the toes and the soles. This condition thrives in environments that are warm and damp, making it a common issue for athletes and individuals who frequent public swimming pools or locker rooms.

Causes of Athlete’s Foot

The primary culprits behind athlete’s foot are dermatophytes, a group of fungi that feed on keratin – a protein found in hair, nails, and skin. The most common species responsible for athlete’s foot is Trichophyton rubrum, although at least three other types of fungi can also cause this infection.

How does athlete’s foot spread? The fungi responsible for this condition can be transmitted through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or infected individuals. Walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, or around swimming pools significantly increases the risk of contracting athlete’s foot.

Recognizing Athlete’s Foot Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete’s foot can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:

  • Peeling, cracking, or scaly skin on the feet
  • Redness and irritation
  • Itching or burning sensation
  • Blisters in severe cases
  • Softened or broken-down skin

Are there different types of athlete’s foot infections? Yes, athlete’s foot can manifest in several forms:

  1. Interdigital: The most common type, affecting the spaces between toes
  2. Moccasin: Characterized by dry, scaly skin that can cover the entire sole
  3. Vesicular: The rarest form, marked by fluid-filled blisters

Diagnosis and Treatment of Athlete’s Foot

How is athlete’s foot diagnosed? While the symptoms are often indicative, a definitive diagnosis may require a skin scraping examined under a microscope. This helps differentiate fungal infections from other skin conditions that may present similarly.

Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves antifungal medications. These can be topical creams or ointments for mild cases, or oral medications for more severe infections. Maintaining good foot hygiene is crucial during treatment and for prevention.

Jock Itch: More Than Just an Annoyance

Jock itch, or tinea cruris, is another common fungal skin infection that primarily affects the groin area, inner thighs, and buttocks. Despite its name, this condition isn’t limited to athletes and can affect anyone, particularly in warm and humid climates.

Understanding the Causes of Jock Itch

Like athlete’s foot, jock itch is caused by dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist areas of the body, making the groin region particularly susceptible. Tight-fitting clothing, excessive sweating, and prolonged skin-to-skin contact can create an ideal environment for these fungi to proliferate.

Is jock itch highly contagious? While it can spread through direct contact or indirectly through contaminated objects, jock itch is only mildly contagious compared to some other fungal infections.

Identifying Jock Itch Symptoms

The hallmark of jock itch is a red, itchy rash that often forms a ring-like pattern. Other symptoms may include:

  • Burning or chafing sensation in the affected area
  • Flaking, peeling, or cracking skin
  • Redness on the groin or inner thighs
  • Raised edges around the rash

Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches

How do doctors diagnose jock itch? In most cases, the distinctive appearance and location of the rash are sufficient for diagnosis. However, to rule out other conditions, a doctor may examine a skin sample under a microscope.

Treatment for jock itch often involves over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders. In more severe cases, prescription-strength medications may be necessary. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the affected area clean and dry are crucial for effective treatment and prevention of recurrence.

Ringworm: The Deceptive Skin Infection

Despite its name, ringworm (tinea corporis) isn’t caused by a worm at all, but by a fungus. This infection can affect various parts of the body and is characterized by its distinctive ring-shaped rash.

The True Nature of Ringworm

Ringworm is caused by the same group of fungi responsible for athlete’s foot and jock itch. These dermatophytes feed on keratin in the outer layers of skin, hair, and nails, causing the characteristic circular rash.

How does ringworm spread? This fungal infection is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or animal. It can also spread indirectly through contaminated objects such as combs, unwashed clothing, or shower floors.

Recognizing Ringworm Symptoms

The most distinctive sign of ringworm is a red, circular rash with a winding, raised border that resembles a worm. Other symptoms may include:

  • Scaly, cracked, or flaky skin within the rash
  • Itching or discomfort in the affected area
  • Hair loss if the scalp or beard area is affected
  • Multiple overlapping rings in severe cases

Diagnosis and Treatment of Ringworm

How is ringworm diagnosed? While the appearance is often sufficient for diagnosis, doctors may take a skin scraping or culture to confirm the presence of fungi, especially in atypical cases.

Treatment for ringworm typically involves antifungal medications, either topical or oral, depending on the severity and location of the infection. Over-the-counter treatments are often effective for mild cases, but prescription medications may be necessary for more extensive or persistent infections.

Yeast Infections: Beyond Candida Albicans

When most people think of yeast infections, they often associate them with vaginal candidiasis. However, yeast infections can occur on various parts of the body and are caused by an overgrowth of fungi, most commonly Candida species.

Common Types of Skin Yeast Infections

Several types of yeast infections can affect the skin, including:

  • Cutaneous candidiasis: Occurs in warm, moist areas of the body
  • Intertrigo: Affects skin folds where moisture and friction are common
  • Oral thrush: A yeast infection in the mouth
  • Diaper rash: Often caused by yeast in infants

What causes yeast to overgrow on the skin? Factors that can contribute to yeast overgrowth include humid environments, poor hygiene, weakened immune systems, and the use of antibiotics that disrupt the normal balance of microorganisms on the skin.

Symptoms of Skin Yeast Infections

The symptoms of skin yeast infections can vary depending on the location and severity but often include:

  • Red, itchy rash
  • Burning or stinging sensation
  • Moist, raw skin
  • Scaly or flaky patches
  • Small pustules or pimple-like bumps

Diagnosing and Treating Skin Yeast Infections

How are skin yeast infections diagnosed? Doctors typically diagnose these infections based on the appearance of the rash and the patient’s symptoms. In some cases, they may take a skin scraping or culture to identify the specific type of yeast causing the infection.

Treatment for skin yeast infections usually involves antifungal medications, which can be applied topically or taken orally. The choice of treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection. In addition to medication, keeping the affected area clean and dry is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of recurrence.

Prevention Strategies for Fungal Skin Infections

While fungal skin infections are common, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing these conditions:

  • Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating
  • Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
  • Change out of damp or sweaty clothes promptly
  • Use antifungal powders in shoes and on feet if prone to infections
  • Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, and pool areas
  • Don’t share personal items like towels, combs, or clothing
  • Practice good hand hygiene
  • Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support your immune system

Are some people more susceptible to fungal skin infections? Yes, certain factors can increase your risk, including a weakened immune system, diabetes, obesity, and frequent use of antibiotics or corticosteroids.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Fungal Skin Infections

While many fungal skin infections can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, there are situations where professional medical care is necessary. You should consult a healthcare provider if:

  • The infection doesn’t improve with home treatment after two weeks
  • The rash spreads or worsens despite treatment
  • You develop a fever or other signs of a secondary bacterial infection
  • The infection is causing significant discomfort or interfering with daily activities
  • You have a weakened immune system or other underlying health conditions
  • The infection recurs frequently

Can fungal skin infections lead to more serious health problems? In most cases, fungal skin infections are not serious and can be effectively treated. However, in people with compromised immune systems, these infections can potentially spread and cause more severe complications.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Fungal Skin Infections

The field of mycology, the study of fungi, is continuously evolving, leading to new insights into fungal skin infections and potential treatments. Some areas of current research include:

  • Development of new antifungal agents with broader spectrum activity
  • Investigation of natural compounds with antifungal properties
  • Exploration of the skin microbiome and its role in preventing fungal overgrowth
  • Study of genetic factors that may influence susceptibility to fungal infections
  • Research into novel delivery methods for antifungal medications

What promising treatments are on the horizon for fungal skin infections? While it’s difficult to predict future breakthroughs, some areas of interest include:

  • Nanotechnology-based antifungal treatments
  • Probiotic therapies to restore skin microbiome balance
  • Immunotherapy approaches to enhance the body’s natural defenses against fungi
  • Gene therapy to address genetic vulnerabilities to fungal infections

As research progresses, we may see more targeted and effective treatments for fungal skin infections, potentially reducing treatment times and improving outcomes for patients.

Living with Fungal Skin Infections: Coping Strategies and Support

Dealing with fungal skin infections can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Here are some strategies to help cope with these conditions:

  • Educate yourself about your specific infection and treatment options
  • Follow your treatment plan consistently, even if symptoms improve
  • Implement lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence
  • Consider joining support groups or online communities for individuals with similar conditions
  • Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress can weaken the immune system
  • Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or persistent symptoms

How can you manage the psychological impact of recurrent fungal infections? Chronic or recurrent infections can be frustrating and may impact self-esteem. Consider speaking with a mental health professional if you’re struggling with the emotional aspects of your condition. They can provide coping strategies and support to help you maintain a positive outlook.

Remember, while fungal skin infections can be persistent, they are generally treatable. With proper care, most people can effectively manage these conditions and maintain healthy skin. By staying informed, following prevention strategies, and seeking appropriate medical care when needed, you can minimize the impact of fungal skin infections on your life.

Symptoms, Types, Causes, and Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

  • What Is a Fungal Infection?
  • Fungal Infection Symptoms
  • Types of Fungal Infections
  • Athlete’s Foot
  • Jock Itch
  • Ringworm
  • Yeast Infections
  • More

A fungal infection, also called mycosis, is a skin disease caused by a fungus.

There are millions of species of fungi. They live in the dirt, on plants, on household surfaces, and on your skin. Sometimes, they can lead to skin problems like rashes or bumps.

A fungal skin infection might cause:

  • Irritation
  • Scaly skin
  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Swelling
  • Blisters

Fungal skin infections can happen anywhere on your body. Some of the most common are athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections.

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of your foot.

The fungi grow best in warm, moist places such as shoes, socks, swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers. They’re often found in the summer and in hot, humid climates. It happens more often in people who wear tight shoes, who don’t change their sweaty socks, and who use public baths and pools.

Athlete’s foot causes

The fungi behind athlete’s foot live on the dead tissue of your hair, toenails, and outer skin layers. At least four kinds of fungus can cause the infection. The most common is Trichophyton rubrum.

Athlete’s foot symptoms

Signs of athlete’s foot vary from person to person. You might have:

  • Peeling, cracking, and scaly feet
  • Blisters
  • Skin that’s red, softened, or broken down
  • Itching
  • Burning

Types of athlete’s foot

  • Interdigital. This is also called toe web infection. Most people with athlete’s foot have this form. It usually occurs between your two smallest toes. The infection can spread to the sole of your foot.
  • Moccasin.  This form can begin with irritation, dryness, itching, or scaly skin. Over time, your skin may thicken and crack. This infection can involve your entire sole and extend onto the sides of your foot.
  • Vesicular. This is the rarest kind of athlete’s foot. It usually begins with a sudden outbreak of fluid-filled blisters, often on the underside of your foot. They also can appear between your toes, on your heel, or on top of your foot.

Athlete’s foot diagnosis

Not all itchy, scaly feet are caused by a fungus. Your doctor may scrape off a bit of skin and look at it under a microscope to check for a different condition.

Athlete’s foot treatment

Your doctor might give you antifungal medicine to put on your skin or, in severe cases, another kind to take by mouth. Be sure to keep your feet clean and dry.

Athlete’s foot prevention

To keep from getting athlete’s foot, wear shower sandals in public showering areas, wear shoes that let your feet breathe, and wash your feet every day with soap and water. Dry them thoroughly, and use a quality foot powder.

A type of fungus called tinea causes jock itch. The infection is also known as tinea cruris. Tinea loves warm, moist areas like your genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks. Infections happen more often in the summer or in warm, wet climates.

Jock itch is a red, itchy rash that’s often ring-shaped.

Is jock itch contagious?

It’s only mildly contagious. It can spread from person to person through direct contact or indirectly through objects with the fungus on them.

Jock itch symptoms

Symptoms of jock itch include:

  • Itching, chafing, or burning on your groin or thigh
  • A red, circular, rash with raised edges
  • Redness on your groin or thigh
  • Flaking, peeling, or cracking skin

Jock itch diagnosis

Doctors can usually diagnose it by what it looks like and where it is on your body. They might look at a sample of skin under a microscope to be sure.

Jock itch treatment

Keep the affected area clean and dry. Over-the-counter antifungal medicines can treat most cases of jock itch. In severe cases, your doctor might need to give you a prescription cream. No matter your treatment, be sure to:

  • Wash and dry the area with a clean towel
  • Use the antifungal medicine as directed
  • Change clothes — especially your underwear — every day

Ringworm, also called tinea corporis, isn’t a worm but a fungal skin infection.  It’s named for its ring-shaped rash with a winding, worm-like edge.

Is ringworm contagious?

Ringworm can spread through direct contact with infected people or animals. You can also pick it up off clothing or furniture. Heat and humidity can help spread the infection.

Ringworm symptoms

Ringworm is a red, circular, flat sore that can happen along with scaly skin. The outer part of the sore might be raised while the skin in the middle appears normal. Patches or red rings may overlap.

Ringworm diagnosis

Your doctor can diagnose ringworm based on your symptoms. They might ask whether you’ve come into contact with infected people or animals. They might also take samples from the area and look at them under a microscope to be sure.

Ringworm treatment

Treatment usually involves antifungal medications that you put on your skin. You might use an over-the-counter cream such as:

  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)
  • Miconazole (Micatin, Monistat-Derm)
  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)

In more severe cases, you might need prescription medications to put on your skin or take by mouth.

Yeast infections of your skin are called cutaneous candidiasis. A type of fungus called candida causes these infections when it grows too much. Yeast infections aren’t contagious.

The infections are most common in warm, moist, creased areas of your body, including your armpits and groin. They often happen in people who are obese or who have diabetes. People taking antibiotics are also at higher risk.

Candida can cause diaper rash in infants. It can also cause infections in your nails, vagina, or mouth (oral thrush).

Yeast infection symptoms

Signs of a yeast infection on your skin include:

  • Rash
  • Patches that ooze clear fluid
  • Pimple-like bumps
  • Itching
  • Burning

Signs of a yeast infection in your nail beds include:

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Pus
  • A white or yellow nail that separates from the nail bed

Signs of thrush (yeast infection of your mouth) include:

  • White patches on your tongue and inside your cheeks
  • Pain

Signs of a vaginal yeast infection include:

  • White or yellow discharge from your vagina
  • Itching
  • Redness in the external area of your vagina
  • Burning

Yeast infection diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam. They might also take a sample from the affected area to look at under a microscope.

Yeast infection treatment

Treatment depends on the infection. Medicated creams can treat most skin yeast infections. For a vaginal infection, you can usually use medicated suppositories. A medicated mouthwash or lozenges that dissolve in your mouth may treat oral thrush. If you have a severe infection or a weakened immune system, you might need anti-yeast medications that you take by mouth.

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Ringworm: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

  • What Is Ringworm?
  • What Are the Symptoms Of Ringworm?
  • How Do You Get Ringworm?
  • How Do I Know If I Have Ringworm?
  • What’s the Treatment For Ringworm?
  • How Can I Prevent Ringworm?
  • More

Ringworm isn’t a worm. It’s a skin infection that’s caused by moldlike fungi that live on the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails. You can get it in any of these places — and on your scalp.

When you get it between your toes, it’s what people call athlete’s foot. If it spreads to your groin, it’s known as jock itch.

 

The telltale sign is a red, scaly patch on light skin or brown or gray patches on skin of color. You may also get bumps that itch. Over time, the bump turns into a ring- or circle-shaped patch. It may turn into several rings. The inside of the patch is usually clear or scaly. The outside might be slightly raised and bumpy.

Ringworm on your scalp tends to start out as a bump or small sore. It may turn flaky and scaly, and your scalp may feel tender and sore to the touch. You may notice that your hair starts to fall out in patches.

Ringworm will often look red on light skin, but brown or gray on skin of color. Most ringworm of the skin can be treated at home with creams you can buy without a prescription. Photo credit: iStock/Getty Images

Ringworm is highly contagious. You can catch it in any of the following ways:

  • From another person. Ringworm often spreads by skin-to-skin contact.
  • From your pets. Rubbing or grooming Sparky? Wash your hands when you’re finished. It’s also very common in cows.
  • By touching objects. The fungus that causes ringworm can linger on surfaces, clothes, towels, and in combs and brushes.
  • From soil. If you’re working or standing barefoot in soil that’s infected with the fungus that causes ringworm, you can get it, too.

You’ll have to see your doctor to be sure if the infection is ringworm. There are a number of other skin conditions that look like it.

Your doctor will probably scrape some skin from the itchy, scaly areas and look at them under a microscope.

How the infection is treated depends on where it is and how bad it is. In many cases, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine you can get at the drugstore. If the ringworm is on your skin, an OTC antifungal cream, lotion, or powder may work just fine. Some of the most popular ones are clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) and miconazole.

In most cases, you’ll have to use the medicines on your skin for 2 to 4 weeks to make sure you kill the fungus that causes ringworm. It also will lower its chance of coming back.

If you have ringworm on your scalp or in many different places on your body, OTC treatments probably won’t be enough. Your doctor will have to write you a prescription.

Keep an eye out for symptoms that get worse or don’t clear up after 2 weeks. If they don’t, call your doctor.

The fungi that cause it are everywhere. Still, here are some things you can do to lower your chances of getting ringworm or stop it from spreading:

  • Keep your skin clean and dry.
  • Wear flip-flops in locker rooms and public showers.
  • Change your socks and underwear at least once each day.
  • Don’t share clothes or towels with someone who has ringworm.
  • If you play sports, keep your gear and uniform clean — and don’t share them with other players.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water after playing with pets. If your pets have ringworm, see your vet.

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Yeast infections (fungus) in women

Every woman will experience a yeast infection at some point in her life. A yeast infection is an irritating infection of the vagina and vulva that causes itching, discharge, and irritation. This is a type of vaginitis caused by an overgrowth of a yeast known as Candida albicans and is often easily treated at home, but can sometimes be severe enough to require a visit to a doctor.

On average, three out of four women experience a yeast infection. Some women have several throughout their lives. Although this disease is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, the fungus can be spread through oral contact with the female genitalia. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection and when you should see your OB/GYN.

Signs and symptoms of yeast infections

Signs and symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can range from mild to more severe. These include the following:

  • burning sensation, especially when urinating or during intercourse;
  • itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva;
  • redness and swelling of the vulva;
  • thick, white or greyish vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese;
  • vaginal rash;
  • pain and soreness in the vagina;
  • watery vaginal discharge.

Yeast infection risk factors

There are certain risk factors that can lead to the development of a yeast infection. These include the following:

  • taking antibiotics;
  • lack of sleep;
  • hormonal imbalance during the menstrual cycle;
  • taking hormone therapy or oral contraceptives;
  • stress;
  • malnutrition, especially when eating too many sugary foods;
  • pregnancy;
  • diabetes;
  • weakened immune system;
  • wearing clothes that are too tight.

A yeast infection can be caused by a number of reasons, but the most common cause is the fungus Candida albicans. The vagina has a natural balance of this substance, as well as other bacteria. However, in some cases there may be an overgrowth of Candida, leading to the development of a yeast infection. As a result, you may experience a combination of classic symptoms such as burning, itching, and soreness. Even women who are not sexually active can develop this infection.

Sometimes other types of Candida can also cause a yeast infection, but most drugs, especially over-the-counter ones, are for Candida albicans. If you develop a yeast infection caused by another type of Candida, treatment may be more difficult. If more aggressive treatment is needed, you may need to make an appointment with an OB/GYN.

Diagnosis of yeast infections

When you visit your OB/GYN, the doctor will run a test to determine if you have a yeast infection:

  • Review of medical history, including any past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Visual examination of the pelvis, external and internal parts of the vagina.
  • Biosampling, a sample of vaginal secretions, to determine what type of fungus is causing the infection.

Yeast infection treatment

Treatment for a simple yeast infection is usually straightforward for most women and may include the following options:

  • Prescription antifungal cream, ointment, suppositories, or tablets that last one, three, or seven days.
  • Single dose oral preparations
  • An over-the-counter antifungal cream or suppository that lasts three to seven days.

For more complex yeast infections, a doctor may suggest the following treatment options:

  • Prescription antifungal cream, ointment, suppositories, or tablets that last up to 14 days.
  • Multi-dose oral preparations.
  • Maintenance plan for recurrent yeast infections. (This type of treatment usually lasts longer than 14 days and may require oral medication once a week for six months or vaginal suppositories once a week.)

Visit your obstetrician-gynecologist. A yeast infection can be uncomfortable and affect your emotional state, but the problem is treatable. Check with your doctor so you can take action in time to avoid infection in the future.

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