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Fungal Infections

Also called: Mycoses

If you have ever had athlete's foot or a yeast infection, you can blame a fungus. A fungus is a primitive organism. Mushrooms, mold and mildew are examples. Fungi live in air, in soil, on plants and in water. Some live in the human body. Only about half of all types of fungi are harmful.

Some fungi reproduce through tiny spores in the air. You can inhale the spores or they can land on you. As a result, fungal infections often start in the lungs or on the skin. You are more likely to get a fungal infection if you have a weakened immune system or take antibiotics.

Fungi can be difficult to kill. For skin and nail infections, you can apply medicine directly to the infected area. Oral antifungal medicines are also available for serious infections.

NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Symptoms of Fungal Infections

The following features are indicative of Fungal Infections:
  • itching and irritation in the vagina and the tissues at the vaginal opening
  • burning sensation
  • redness and swelling of the vulva
  • vaginal pain and soreness
  • vaginal rash
  • watery vaginal discharge
  • thick, white, or odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance

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Common Causes of Fungal Infections

The following are the most common causes of Fungal Infections:
  • antibiotic use
  • pregnancy
  • uncontrolled diabetes
  • impaired immune system
  • intake of oral contraceptives
  • candida albicans fungi

Risk Factors for Fungal Infections

The following factors may increase the likelihood of Fungal Infections:
  • antibiotic use
  • increased estrogen levels
  • uncontrolled diabetes
  • impaired immune system
  • sexual activity

Prevention of Fungal Infections

Yes, it may be possible to prevent Fungal Infections. Prevention may be possible by doing the following:
  • wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants or skirts
  • avoid tight-fitting underwear or pantyhose
  • immediately change out of wet clothes, such as swimsuits or workout attire
  • stay out of hot tubs and very hot baths
  • avoid unnecessary antibiotic use, such as for colds or other viral infections

Occurrence of Fungal Infections

Number of Cases

The following are the number of Fungal Infections cases seen each year worldwide:
  • Common between 1 - 10 Million cases

Common Age Group

Fungal Infections can occur at any age.

Common Gender

Fungal Infections can occur in any gender.

Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Fungal Infections

The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Fungal Infections:
  • Medical history: To analyze the past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections
  • Pelvic exam: To examine the external genitals for signs of infection
  • Vaginal secretions test: To identify the type of fungus causing the infections

Doctor for Diagnosis of Fungal Infections

Patients should visit the following specialists if they have symptoms of Fungal Infections:
  • Infectious disease specialist

Complications of Fungal Infections if untreated

Yes, Fungal Infections causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Fungal Infections is left untreated:
  • can be fatal

Self-care for Fungal Infections

The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Fungal Infections:
  • Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants or skirts: Decreases the chances of fungal infection
  • Stay out of hot tubs and very hot baths: Prevent fungal infections
  • Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use: Take antibiotics on doctor prescription

Alternative Medicine for Treatment of Fungal Infections

The following alternate medicine and therapies are known to help in the treatment or management of Fungal Infections:
  • Use vaginal insert boric acid suppository: Helps in treating the chronic strains of candida
  • Intake yogurt: Gives relief from yeast infection symptoms

Time for Treatment of Fungal Infections

While time-period of treatment for each patient may vary, below is the typical time-period for Fungal Infections to resolve if treated properly under an expert supervision:
  • In 1 - 4 weeks

Is Fungal Infections Infectious?

Yes, Fungal Infections is known to be infectious. It can spread across people via the following means:
  • sexual contact

Last updated date

This page was last updated on 5/01/2020.
This page provides information for Fungal Infections.
Aspergillosis
Athlete's Foot
Histoplasmosis
Molds
Pneumocystis Infections
Tinea Infections
Valley Fever
Yeast Infections

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