Identification

• Fungal infections (mycosis) occur when fungi are passed to humans or animals, causing infection. In other words, they're diseases caused by the propagation of fungal organisms. Although they can be painful, fungal skin infections aren't as serious as fungal diseases that affects internal organs such as the lungs.
  
  

Athlete's Foot

• Also called tinea pedis, athlete's foot is the most common type of fungal skin disease. Besides peeling, itching, burning and redness, athlete's foot can also cause sores and blisters. It's mostly contracted in warm summer months and in humid environments where moisture and heat combine. For example, people wearing tight shoes or using community pools and baths are prone to develop it.
  
  

Types of Athlete's Foot

• There are three different types of athlete's foot. The most common athlete's foot is known as chronic interdigital athlete's foot. This type of infection develops between the smallest toes, causing itching, scaling and burning. Moccasin athlete's foot starts with itching, dryness or scaly skin. As it grows, skin can crack or thicken. Vesicular, the rarest type, generally originates with fluid-filled blisters breaking underneath the skin. Usually the blisters form on the underside of feet. They can also grow on heels, toes or on top of feet.
  
  

Jock Itch

• Jock itch is another skin and nail fungal infection. An itchy groin rash, jock itch also develops in humid climates and is more common among males. Besides the groin, the rash can spread to the inner thighs and genital areas.
  
  

Ringworm

• Ringworm is distinguished by small red blisters forming a ring of red scaly skin that grows as the infection spreads. Children mostly develop ringworm, but adults can catch it, too. The disease is due to fungus growing on the skin. Once established, the fungus expands in rings. As the center of the ring clears up, a new infection ring begins along the edge of the old ring. Ringworm can be spread by using contaminated towels, clothing or sports gear. Besides humans, dogs and cats can also be infected, passing it on to people.
  
  

Candida Yeast Infections

• Candida, a fungal yeast infection, also causes infections on the skin. Also known as thrush, candida naturally lives in the mouth, digestive system and vagina. It's usually during an illness when antibiotics are used that the fungi multiply, causing symptoms. The infection resembles small white patches, leaving a red mark when rubbed. Candida can cause sore throat pain and nausea.