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What causes skin yeast infections. Skin Yeast Infections: Causes, Symptoms, Types, and Treatments Explained

by alexxlab

What are the common causes of skin yeast infections. How can you identify the symptoms of various fungal skin conditions. What are the most effective treatments for different types of yeast infections on the skin. How to prevent recurrence of fungal skin problems.

Understanding Fungal Skin Infections: An Overview

Fungal skin infections, also known as mycoses, are common dermatological conditions caused by various species of fungi. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, moist environments and can affect different parts of the body, leading to a range of symptoms and discomfort. To effectively manage and prevent these infections, it’s crucial to understand their causes, recognize the symptoms, and be aware of available treatment options.

What exactly is a fungal skin infection?

A fungal skin infection occurs when fungi colonize and grow on the skin, hair, or nails. While fungi are naturally present on our bodies and in the environment, certain conditions can lead to overgrowth and subsequent infection. These infections can manifest in various forms, from mild and superficial to more severe and invasive cases.

Common symptoms of fungal skin infections

  • Irritation and itching
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Scaly or flaky skin
  • Rashes or bumps
  • Blisters
  • Cracking or peeling skin

The severity and combination of symptoms can vary depending on the type of fungal infection and the affected area of the body. It’s important to note that these symptoms can sometimes mimic other skin conditions, making proper diagnosis essential for effective treatment.

Common Types of Fungal Skin Infections

While there are numerous types of fungal skin infections, some are more prevalent than others. Understanding the characteristics of these common infections can help in early detection and prompt treatment.

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that primarily affects the feet, particularly the areas between the toes and the soles. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes, public showers, and swimming pools.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

  • Itching and burning sensation
  • Peeling, cracking, or scaly skin
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Blisters in severe cases

There are several types of athlete’s foot, including interdigital (between the toes), moccasin-type (affecting the soles), and vesicular (characterized by fluid-filled blisters). The most common fungus responsible for athlete’s foot is Trichophyton rubrum.

Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris)

Jock itch is a fungal infection that affects the groin area, inner thighs, and buttocks. It’s more common in men and often occurs in warm, humid climates or during summer months.

Characteristic symptoms of jock itch include:

  • Red, ring-shaped rash
  • Intense itching and burning
  • Flaking, peeling, or cracking skin
  • Redness in the groin or thigh area

While jock itch is mildly contagious, it can spread through direct contact or indirectly through contaminated objects.

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)

Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungus. It can affect various parts of the body and is characterized by its distinctive ring-shaped appearance.

Key features of ringworm include:

  • Circular, red patches with raised edges
  • Scaly skin within the affected area
  • Itching and discomfort
  • Overlapping rings in severe cases

Ringworm is contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated objects.

Yeast Infections: A Closer Look

Yeast infections are a specific type of fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast naturally present on our skin and in our bodies. While often associated with vaginal infections, yeast can also cause skin problems in various parts of the body.

Common areas affected by skin yeast infections

  • Skin folds (under breasts, in the groin area, between fingers or toes)
  • Nail beds
  • Corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)
  • Diaper area in infants

Symptoms of skin yeast infections may include redness, itching, burning sensation, and in some cases, a white, cottage cheese-like discharge. These infections tend to thrive in warm, moist environments and can be exacerbated by factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

Causes and Risk Factors for Fungal Skin Infections

Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors for fungal skin infections can help in prevention and management of these conditions. While fungi are ubiquitous in our environment, certain circumstances can increase the likelihood of developing an infection.

Environmental factors contributing to fungal infections

  • Warm and humid climates
  • Prolonged exposure to moisture (e.g., sweaty clothes, damp shoes)
  • Poor hygiene practices
  • Sharing personal items like towels or combs
  • Walking barefoot in public areas (gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools)

Personal risk factors

  • Weakened immune system (due to illness, medications, or stress)
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Poor circulation
  • Frequent use of antibiotics or corticosteroids
  • Tight-fitting, non-breathable clothing

By addressing these risk factors and making lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their chances of developing fungal skin infections.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Fungal Skin Infections

Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of fungal skin infections. While some cases may be diagnosed based on visual examination and symptoms, others may require additional testing.

Diagnostic methods for fungal skin infections

  • Physical examination
  • Skin scraping and microscopic analysis
  • Fungal culture
  • Wood’s lamp examination (for certain types of infections)
  • Skin biopsy (in rare cases)

Once diagnosed, treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Treatment approaches for fungal skin infections

  1. Topical antifungal medications (creams, ointments, powders)
  2. Oral antifungal medications (for severe or persistent infections)
  3. Proper hygiene and moisture control
  4. Lifestyle modifications to address underlying risk factors

It’s important to follow the prescribed treatment regimen and continue treatment for the recommended duration, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.

Prevention Strategies for Fungal Skin Infections

Preventing fungal skin infections involves a combination of good hygiene practices, lifestyle modifications, and awareness of risk factors. By implementing these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their chances of developing fungal infections.

Essential hygiene practices

  • Keep skin clean and dry, especially in prone areas
  • Change out of damp or sweaty clothes promptly
  • Use antifungal powders in shoes and on feet
  • Avoid sharing personal items like towels, combs, or shoes
  • Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics

Environmental precautions

  • Wear shower shoes in public bathing areas
  • Keep communal areas clean and dry
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to wet or damp conditions
  • Regularly clean and disinfect high-risk areas (gym equipment, locker rooms)

By incorporating these preventive measures into daily routines, individuals can create an environment less conducive to fungal growth and reduce their risk of infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Fungal Skin Infections

While many fungal skin infections can be managed with over-the-counter treatments and home care, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Recognizing these signs can help prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

Signs that indicate the need for medical evaluation

  • Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home treatment
  • Widespread or rapidly spreading infection
  • Signs of secondary bacterial infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus)
  • Recurring infections
  • Infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions

If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about a potential fungal skin infection, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

Natural Remedies and Complementary Approaches

While medical treatments are often necessary for fungal skin infections, some individuals may be interested in exploring natural or complementary approaches. It’s important to note that these methods should not replace conventional medical treatments but may be used as adjuncts under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Potential natural remedies for fungal skin infections

  • Tea tree oil (with caution, as it can cause skin irritation in some individuals)
  • Garlic extract
  • Apple cider vinegar diluted in water
  • Coconut oil (which has some antifungal properties)
  • Probiotics (both topical and oral)

While some of these remedies have shown promise in limited studies, their efficacy and safety profiles are not as well-established as conventional treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating natural remedies into your treatment plan.

Lifestyle modifications to support healing

  • Stress reduction techniques (as stress can impact immune function)
  • Balanced diet rich in nutrients that support skin health
  • Adequate sleep and rest
  • Regular exercise (while maintaining proper hygiene)

These lifestyle modifications can complement medical treatments and help create an environment less favorable for fungal growth.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for fungal skin infections empowers individuals to take proactive steps in prevention and management. By maintaining good hygiene practices, being aware of risk factors, and seeking timely medical attention when necessary, most fungal skin infections can be effectively treated and prevented from recurring. As research in this field continues to advance, new treatment options and preventive strategies may emerge, further improving our ability to combat these common yet troublesome skin conditions.

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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