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Fungi are all around us. Most of the time, they aren't a problem. But sometimes, if you have damage to your skin or a weakened immune system, fungi can become an infection. Athlete's foot, ringworm and jock itch are all forms of fungal skin infections. The yeast infections that plague women are also fungi. Finger and toenails can be affected by fungi as well, changing color and becoming thick and unsightly. Each of these infections should be treated differently.
Bacteria and fungi are always present on your body, but sometimes these microorganisms can cause infections. Symptoms of a fungal infection include red, itchy, scaly or swollen skin. Most fungal infections on the skin are not dangerous and can be treated with over-the-counter creams. Persistent fungal infections and scalp infections may require oral anti-fungal pills.
Candidal onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nails, splits nails (especially toenails) and separates them from the skin. Podiatrists offer several modes of treatment, but do-it-yourself treatments are available if you have poor insurance coverage, are concerned about the high cost to solve a minor ailment or fear the side effects of Lamisil, which usually is prescribed to treat this fungus. Anecdotal evidence supports do-it-yourself approaches, and the more such remedies you try, the more likely you are to beat the infection.
