Fungal infections are incredibly common; it is estimated that around a billion people will suffer from some form of nail, hair, or skin fungal infection in their lives. That equates to around one in every six people!

Fungi usually seek to attack moist areas of the body, or areas that do not get enough air, meaning it’s no surprise to see just how common fungal infections are. If you suspect that you are suffering from a fungal infection, or you are curious to find out more, this article dives deeper to further help with understanding what exactly a fungal infection is; including the causes, symptoms, types of fungal infections, and treatment.

What Is a Fungal Infection?

When fungi invade the human body, the immune system is on hand to battle it, and when this is the case, there’s nothing to worry about. But a fungal infection comes about when fungi ‘burrow’ their way into a human and overwhelm the immune system.

What Causes a Fungal Infection?

There are many causes of a fungal infection, and these will differ depending on the individual. Most commonly, fungal infections start through inhaling the fungal spores in the air or having them land on an area of your body.

In terms of nail fungal infections, these are commonly caused by a fungus called dermatophyte, but can also be caused by moulds and yeast.

Symptoms Of a Fungal Infection

There are many different types of fungal infections, all with varying symptoms. There are some common symptoms, though, and below we’ll look at a couple of the trademark fungal infection symptoms that you may be dealing with:

• Unreasonable itching
• Red spots on the skin which may begin to crack or peel

If you have one of the above symptoms, you might be dealing with a fungal infection.

Types Of Fungal Infections

Let’s get into the specifics of fungal infections and the ones that most people deal with.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is sometimes called Tinea Pedis, and it generally occurs when people confine themselves to sweaty shoes with little to no ventilation. No one is immune from athlete’s foot, and it can get awful when the summer months roll around, and the air is humid. Some of the symptoms include:

• Irritation of the affected area
• Peeling skin around the affected area
• Itching
• Blisters

So, what do you do when you have athlete’s foot or better still, how do you prevent yourself from it? If you already have it or are worried that you are infected, you can see a doctor who will scrape off the infected area and observe it under a microscope. Sometimes, it might not even be a fungal infection at all.

If it is confirmed that you have athlete’s foot, there are various ointments, sprays, and powders that you can use. You might also require some drugs, and apart from that, it is advised that you should take care of your foot and keep it dry at all times.

Ringworm

Ringworm is an infection that can affect human skin. It should be noted that it is not caused by a worm, but rather a fungus. It creates a lesion that, when seen on the skin, looks like a ring; this is the inspiration for the name. It’s not a surprise that of all fungal infections, Ringworm is the easiest to identify due to its signature appearance on the skin.

Other symptoms to look out for when dealing with Ringworm include patchy and scaly skin. The condition is contagious, and those who have it need to be very careful around other people until treated.

So, how do you battle Ringworm? Again, a trip to the doctor is necessary, and they will inspect a skin sample to determine the severity of the situation. You can treat Ringworm with ointments and creams, but if you are dealing with a severe case or you’re dealing with Ringworm on the scalp, prescription medication might be necessary. As for prevention, general hygiene is usually sufficient to treat it.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are more common amongst women and usually occur in and around the vagina.

A vaginal yeast infection is caused by Candida fungi, which sets off on a mission to disturb the delicate yeast/bacteria balance in the vagina. It can be caused by stress, unhealthy eating habits, antibiotics, and much more. Symptoms include:

• Painful intercourse
• Swelling around the area of the vagina
• Watery or uncommon discharge

Yeast infections are easy to diagnose, and in mild cases, easy to treat. Over the counter prescription drugs are usually good enough and in more severe cases, your doctor might need to opt for more complex measures. However, prevention is better than cure and preventing this type of yeast infection starts with a balanced and healthy diet. Personal hygiene also doesn’t hurt, and even wearing more loose-fitting clothes helps tremendously.

Fungal Nail Infection

As the name implies, fungal nail infections generally occur in, or under, the nails. They are often caused by an overgrowth of fungi already present on the skin. They can be passed from person to person and can even be contracted from something as simple as having a manicure or pedicure.

People with diabetes, nail injuries, or weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal nail infections than others. Treatment usually constitutes oral medication prescribed by pharmacies. You can also employ the use of antifungal nail cream to battle the infection.

How Can I Treat a Fungal Infection?

Fast and effective antifungal treatment is available to purchase online at Express Pharmacy. One of such means is Curanail; our best-seller for battling nail infections. Curanail is a nail lacquer that contains amorolfine, which is an active agent necessary to cure infections. Additionally, the easy application makes it appealing to many people as it can be used like a simple nail varnish.

Conclusion

Fungal infections are a pain to deal with, however, are incredibly easy to treat. With numerous antifungal treatments and remedies available, you can easily deal with an infection if contracted.

For more information regarding effective fungal infection treatment, get in touch with us today on 0208 123 0703 or browse or our antifungal treatments.

Fungal skin infections are a common occurrence, and many people will experience some variation of a fungal infection during their lifetime. They are caused by many different kinds of fungi, including yeasts.[1]

A fungal infection can refer to a variety of different conditions, from athlete’s foot to ringworm. Nail infections are also common issues that can be found on both hands and feet, as a result of the presence of one fungus or another. They most commonly start at the edge of the nail.[2]

A quick search online will show you plenty of common household ingredients claiming to be the miracle cure for fungal infection. But what are these so-called cures, and do they actually work?

Garlic

Garlic is one of the best-known home remedies for fungal infection, considered to have antibiotic qualities. In particular, the major biologically active component of garlic, Allicin, exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties.

However, there is no definitive medical answer as to whether garlic is an effective cure for fungal infections, and results from studies have been mixed. One piece of research conducted in 2006 found garlic to be a promising component in reversing the effects of fungus growth.[3] However, another study found the effects of short-term doses of garlic to be inconclusive.[4]

Cranberry Juice

It’s commonly stated that cranberry juice can help to alleviate a urinary tract infection, or UTI, thanks to the presence of nutrients believed to stop fungal bacteria from sticking to the mucus membranes.

However, recent research has found that the main benefit of drinking lots of cranberry juice when suffering with an infection is simply staying hydrated. In this sense, cranberry juice specifically isn’t really any more effective than drinking plenty of water. A Yale University study looked at 185 women over the course of the year and found that cranberries had no significant effect on bacteria in urine.[5] Staying hydrated dilutes the urine, making it seem as though the infection is passing.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is another ingredient frequently hailed as a cure for fungal infections. There is some truth to this, as one study found that coconut oil can help to tackle certain strains of yeast, particularly those present in vaginal infections, due to the medium chain fatty acids in the oil itself.[6]

As such, coconut oil is an established anti-fungal. However, research into the area is limited and further studies are needed in order to determine the possible long- and short-term effectiveness of using coconut oil to treat yeast infections.

Your best bet? Anti-fungal medication

While some home remedies may go some way to relieving symptoms of a fungal infection, none have been shown to have the consistent, proven effectiveness of clinically-tested anti-fungal medication.

Anti-fungal medication is the first and most important aspect of treatment advised to anyone suffering with an infection of this kind.[7] Fungal issues of the nail, in particular, do not clear up by themselves, and can require a long-term course of specifically tailored condition in order to clear up the infected area fully.[8]

The NHS advises simple lifestyle changes such as keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing clean socks every day, wearing flipflops in public showers and getting rid of old shoes.[9]

These are habits that are advised to be carried out alongside the necessary medication, not instead of it.

You can find effective and safe anti-fungal treatment at Express Pharmacy. Curanail is designed to treat mild fungal infections in the fingernails and toenails. If you have any further queries, contact the Express Pharmacy team today by calling 0208 123 07 03 or by using our discreet Live Chat service.

[1] Bupa UK. Fungal Skin Infections. 2018.

[2] NHS UK. Fungal Nail Infections. 2017.

[3] Shams-Ghahfaroki, M. et al. In vitro antifungal activities of Allium cepa, Allium sativum and ketoconazole against some pathogenic yeasts and dermatophytes. Fitoterapia. 2006.

[4] Watson, C. J. Allium sativum (garlic) and candidiasis. Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care Academic Centre, The University of Melbourne. 2013.

[5] Juthani-Mehta, M, PhD. et al. Effect of Cranberry Capsules on Bacteriuria Plus Pyuria Among Older Women in Nursing Homes. Jama. 2016.

[6] Ogbolu, DO. et al. In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria. US National Library of Medicine. 2007.

[7] NICE. Fungal skin infection – body and groin. 2018.

[8] British Association of Dermatologists. Fungal infections of the nails. 2017.

[9] NHS UK. Fungal Nail Infections. 2017.

Fungal infections may not be the most pleasant thing to think about, but understanding the different types of fungal infections is important for effective treatment.

Fungus is not an inherently bad thing. Some of our favourite ingredients are classed as fungi, including mushrooms. What’s more, many different types of fungi make their home on our bodies and, in most cases, don’t cause any issues.

However, sometimes a fungus can change, and this can lead to an infection. There are many different kinds of fungal infections, all of which can affect different parts of the body, and in different ways.

We’re going to take a closer look at some of the most common fungal infections, in order to give you a clearer understanding of how to recognise and treat these conditions in the best way.

4 Common Types of Fungal Infection

Thrush

Thrush is a particularly common fungal infection and is usually either an oral or genital condition. In fact, up to three-quarters of all women will have at least one bout of vaginal thrush in their lives.[1] But the condition isn’t exclusive to women – it can also be contracted by men.

Thrush is usually harmless but can be uncomfortable and resilient. Symptoms of thrush include:

• White discharge from the genitalia
• Irritation and itchiness
• Burning and stinging when having sex or using the toilet

Like most fungal infections, thrush is best treated with effective antifungal medication. This can be an oral tablet, a tablet inserted into the vagina or a cream to relieve irritation. Recurring thrush may be caused by a wider issue, and advice should be sought from your GP.

Athlete’s foot

Between 15-25% of people are likely to experience athlete’s foot at any one time.[2] As the name suggests, the infection affects feet, usually appearing between the toes but also on the soles or side of the feet. If left untreated, it can spread and lead to fungal nail infections.

Athlete’s foot can cause raw, tender, flaking or split skin. It can also cause fluid-filled blisters to appear. The condition can be treated with creams, sprays and powders. You can also help to prevent it occurring by drying your feet after you wash them, wearing clean socks every day and avoiding walking around barefoot – particularly in public changing rooms and showers.

Ringworm

Ringworm is often the name given to a generic fungal infection, as it occurs when the tinea corporis fungus infects the skin. When it occurs in the feet, it can cause athlete’s foot; when it occurs in the groin, it can cause another infection called jock itch. It is also common on the scalp or the beard.

Although specific figures are hard to gather, ringworm is a frequent problem in most countries, particularly those with less access to effective hygiene.[3] The main symptom of the condition is a red or silver rash which can be itchy, swollen or dry. Antifungal medication in the form of a cream, gel or spray is often prescribed.

Fungal nail infections

Fungal nail infections occur when a fungus infects the top, body or bed of the nail. They are more common in toenails but can occur in fingernails too.[4] This is because the fungus thrives in warm and moist environments, and our feet spend much more time encased in shoes and socks which can get hot.

When infection occurs, the nail can become thicker, drier and begin to crumble. It may also become more yellow in tone and can even come off altogether. Fungal nail infections can take a long time to heal completely, but the best way to treat it effectively is with proven antifungal treatment. Lacquered medications like Curanail can be applied directly to the nail to trap and tackle the infection.

Find effective treatment for fungal nail infections right here at Express Pharmacy, and get it delivered swiftly and discreetly to your home. You can also contact our pharmacists today by calling 0208 123 07 03 or by using our online live chat system.

[1] Patient UK. Vaginal Thrush [Accessed December 2018]

[2] Crawford, F., Athlete’s Foot [online] BMJ: 2009 [Accessed December 2018]

[3] World Health Organisation, Water-Related Diseases, Ringworm (Tinea) [Accessed December 2018]

[4] NHS UK. Fungal Nail Infections [Accessed December 2018]