Fungal Infections

What Are Fungal Infections?

Fungal infections are caused by microscopic organisms, such as molds or yeasts, that affect different parts of the body. They can occur on the skin, nails, scalp, or mucous membranes, and they thrive in warm, moist conditions. Common examples include athlete’s foot, ringworm, and yeast infections.

While these infections are often not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort and tend to recur if not treated thoroughly. At our Pasadena clinic, we help patients address both the symptoms and root causes to minimize the risk of recurrence.

What Causes Fungal Infections?

Fungi are naturally present in the body and environment, but certain factors can lead to excessive fungal growth and infection. These may include:

• Compromised immune system. Individuals with lowered immunity—whether from illness or medication—are more vulnerable to fungal overgrowth.
• High moisture levels. Damp areas of the body, like the feet, groin, and underarms, create the perfect breeding ground for fungi.
• Use of antibiotics. Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of microorganisms on the skin, allowing fungi to grow unchecked.
• Contact with infected surfaces. Walking barefoot in public showers, sharing towels, or contact with infected animals can spread certain fungal infections.

What Are the Symptoms of Fungal Infections?

The symptoms of fungal infections depend on the type and where the infection appears on the body. However, some signs are common across many fungal conditions:

• Redness and itching. Many fungal infections cause itchy, inflamed skin.
• Flaky or cracked skin. Especially in athlete’s foot or ringworm, the skin may peel or become rough.
• Thick, discolored nails. Nail fungus may lead to yellowing, thickening, and brittleness.
• Persistent rashes. Some infections present as scaly patches or circular rashes that may spread without treatment.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, early intervention is key to effective treatment and prevention of complications.

FAQs

Can fungal infections spread to other areas?

Yes. Without proper treatment, fungal infections can expand to other areas of the skin or even to other people through shared surfaces or direct contact.

Are fungal infections contagious?

Some fungal infections—like athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm—are indeed contagious. They can spread via skin contact, contaminated clothing, or surfaces like gym floors and locker rooms.

What happens if I don’t treat a fungal infection?

Leaving a fungal infection untreated may result in worsening symptoms, more widespread infection, and the possibility of developing a secondary bacterial infection.

How long does it take for a fungal infection to go away?

With proper treatment, many fungal infections improve within 2–4 weeks. However, nail fungus and certain chronic conditions may require several months of treatment.

Is there a way to prevent fungal infections?

Yes. Prevention includes maintaining dry, clean skin—especially in sweat-prone areas—wearing breathable fabrics, avoiding the sharing of personal items like razors and towels, and using antifungal products when needed.