Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis):

• Cause: Caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, swimming pools, and shoes.

• Symptoms: Itching, burning, and stinging between the toes; peeling or cracking skin; blisters or raw skin on the feet.

• Common in: Athletes and people who frequently wear tight-fitting shoes.

• Treatment: Over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders; keeping the feet dry and clean.

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis):

• Cause: Dermatophyte fungi that live on the dead tissues of the skin, hair, and nails.

• Symptoms: Circular, red, scaly patches on the skin with raised edges; often accompanied by itching.

• Common in: People exposed to infected animals or contaminated surfaces.

• Treatment: Topical antifungal creams or oral antifungals for severe cases.

Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris):

• Cause: A fungal infection of the groin area caused by dermatophytes, particularly in hot, humid environments.

• Symptoms: Red, itchy rash on the groin, inner thighs, or buttocks; the rash may have a well-defined edge.

• Common in: Athletes, people who sweat excessively, or those who wear tight clothing.

• Treatment: Antifungal creams or powders; keeping the area dry and clean.

Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis or Tinea Unguium):

• Cause: Dermatophytes or yeasts that infect the nails, usually starting at the tip of the toenails.

• Symptoms: Thickened, discolored (yellow or brown), and brittle nails; sometimes the nail separates from the nail bed.

• Common in: People who frequently expose their feet to moist environments, diabetics, and older adults.

• Treatment: Topical antifungal lacquers, oral antifungal medications, or laser treatment for stubborn cases.

Yeast Infections (Candidiasis):

• Cause: Overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin, in the mouth, or in the genital area.

• Types:

  • Oral Thrush: A white, creamy rash inside the mouth or on the tongue.

  • Vaginal Yeast Infection: Itching, burning, and thick white discharge from the vagina.

  • Diaper Rash: Red, inflamed skin in the diaper area caused by yeast overgrowth.

• Common in: People with weakened immune systems, diabetics, pregnant women, and those taking antibiotics.

• Treatment: Antifungal creams, oral medications, or suppositories, depending on the infection site.

Tinea Versicolor (Pityriasis Versicolor):

• Cause: Overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that normally lives on the skin.

• Symptoms: Discolored patches of skin (lighter or darker than surrounding skin) on the chest, back, and upper arms; mild itching.

• Common in: People who live in warm, humid climates or who sweat excessively.

• Treatment: Antifungal creams, shampoos, or oral antifungals in severe cases.

Fungal Infections of the Scalp (Tinea Capitis):

• Cause: Dermatophyte infection affecting the scalp, commonly spread through contaminated hairbrushes, hats, or close contact.

• Symptoms: Itchy, scaly patches on the scalp; hair loss in the affected areas; sometimes swollen lymph nodes.

• Common in: Children.

• Treatment: Oral antifungal medications and medicated shampoos.