It is not uncommon to find germs, bacteria or fungi growths on your skin and even inside your body. These microbes are harmless residents for as long as their population is kept in check. However, due to several factors, the population of some types of fungi can grow into dangerous proportions and cause minor skin irritations and problems. Red rashes, scaly skin, extreme itchiness and even bad odor are some of the symptoms of the most common fungal infections that affect the human skin.

Although these skin diseases are minor and are often cured by over-the-counter medication, you should not let them proliferate and grow. Fungi overgrowth, when left unchecked for a long period of time, can spread and cause embarrassment, pain and discomfort.

Types Of Common Fungal Infections

Skin, scalp, genitalia and nails are the usual areas that get affected by fungal woes. The symptoms of each problem vary depending on the location of the infection and the type of fungi that causes it. It is also important to note that fungal infections spread easily. Even the slightest brush to someone else's affected area or things that come into contact with the infection could easily infect you. Lastly, you can also get some fungal infections from animals and pets.

Tinea Corporis

This skin problem, more commonly known as ringworm of the body, usually affects the torso, arms and legs but can also infect any exposed parts of your body. This infection is characterized by uncontrollable itchiness on the affected area. You will know that you have ringworm if the affected skin forms a red patch, with a clear or whitish center and a raised red scaly edge. Ringworm, which can affect anybody, is more common in places where the weather is warm.

Tinea Capitis

Basically, tinea capitis has very similar signs and symptoms with tinea corporis except for the fact that it only affects the scalp. This kind of skin infection, also called as ringworm of the scalp, is more common in toddlers and young children. It is important to note that hair loss is possible if this condition is left untreated.

Tinea Cruris

Jock itch, or what is scientifically called tinea cruris, is an itchy skin problem located in the crotch or groin area. This particular problem was called jock itch because it is more common in men who sweat profusely, much like those who are engaged in sports. According to experts, this infection occurs three times more in men than in women. If you have this problem, be sure to wash your hands immediately after scratching because the fungus responsible for this condition can be contagious.

Tinea Pedis

People who have stinky feet usually suffer from tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete's foot. Although the symptoms of this infection only include burning feet and itching, many people who have tinea pedis have smelly feet because odor-causing bacteria can inhabit the cracks in the skin caused by this fungal problem. If left untreated, athlete's foot can spread easily and bring about bleeding, breaks on the skin and even extreme pain.

Onychomycosis

Basically, onychomycosis is just nail fungus or infection. Nail deformity, discoloration, thickening and crumbling are just some of the symptoms of this condition. Usually, people who have nail fungus only have one problematic nail. However, if you leave the infected nail untreated, the other nails can be contaminated and affected.

Although it is more common to see nail fungus on toenails, especially with people who have athlete's foot, fingernails are not spared from this infection. Nail fungus is quite difficult to treat, so you need to choose your medication or treatment properly. One product that you can rely on with regard to nail infections is Somasin. Read more about this treatment on its website,