Fungi naturally live in air, soil, water, plants, and even inside the human body. Similar to microbes, fungi can be both beneficial and harmful. Harmful fungi often cause infections, especially when they invade a specific body area, and the immune system cannot fight them off effectively. While fungal infections are common and generally not serious if treated promptly, they can cause discomfort and complications if left untreated.
Here’s an in-depth look at fungi and related infections:
Diseases Caused by Fungi
Several types of fungi can infect humans, including:
1. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
A fungal infection affecting the feet, often associated with athletes due to fungi thriving in warm, moist environments like socks and shoes.
2. Vaginal Yeast Infections
A common form of overgrowth of Candida albicans in women, leading to discomfort and irritation.
3. Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris)
A fungal infection of the skin around the groin area, moderately contagious and spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects.