What Is a Fungal Infection?
Most of us have heard of a fungal infection before but are not exactly sure what the term implies. There are actually hundreds of different types of fungal infections that can develop on the human body, but there are a few in particular which are especially common.
Tinea
Tinea, one of the most commonly developing types of fungal infection, is a type of fungal infection of the hair. It is caused by yeast that normally inhabits the skin, and there are certain factors that cause these yeasts to convert to a pathogenic form known as Malassezia furfur, which causes the rash of tinea.
There are a few predisposing factors of this condition which includes removal of the adrenal gland, Cushing's disease, pregnancy, malnutrition, suppressed immune system, excess heat and excess humidity. In order to make a proper diagnosis here, there are three different tests which may be performed.
The KOH test is usually the first, and shows a characteristic appearance under the microscope. There is also the Woods light examination under which the yeast fluoresces pale yellow. Finally a fungal culture is often performed after adding oil to the culture medium.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is another commonly occurring fungal infection. Athlete's foot is an infection of the foot which is caused by a fungus known as dermatophytes which invade the dead outer layers of the skin. Athlete's foot spread easily and you can get it just by touching the toes or feet of a person who has it.
After proper diagnosis, you can usually treat a case of athlete's foot right at home with over the counter lotions and sprays. Your doctor may give you a prescription for medication if your athlete's foot is particularly severe or if you have been dealing with it for an extended period of time. You can also take certain precautions to avoid getting athlete's foot, including wearing shower sandals in shared areas like locker rooms and using talcum powder to help keep your feet dry.
Candida
Candida is another fungal infection that you will want to be educated on. Candida is the common term used for candidiasis, which means candida overgrowth. There are a few factors that may put you at greater risk for developing candida, and this includes psoriasis, iron deficiency, diabetes and Cushing's disease, use of oral or inhaled steroids, and if you have any number of endocrine conditions including Addison's disease and hypothyroidism, for example.
