How do you recognise the warning signs?

What are fungal infections?

Fungal infections, also called mycoses, occur when disease‑causing fungi multiply in the body. They can colonise the skin, mucous membranes or the nails. In rare cases, internal organs may also be affected. There are different types of fungi that can cause such infections, including filamentous fungi (dermatophytes), yeasts and moulds.

Mycoses are classified according to their location. Superficial fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or nail fungus, usually affect only the skin and its appendages, for example nails and hair. These infections are mainly caused by dermatophytes or yeasts. Systemic fungal infections, by contrast, are rare but particularly dangerous because they can affect the whole body and often occur in immunocompromised people. They are caused by yeasts or moulds and can involve organs such as the lungs or the brain.

Fungal infections are also categorised by the pathogen and the route of infection. A distinction is made between endogenous mycoses, which arise from fungi already present in the body, and exogenous mycoses, where fungi enter the body from the outside.

What are typical symptoms of a fungal infection?

Symptoms vary greatly depending on the affected area. The most common signs are severe itching, redness and skin changes. On the skin there are often scaly, inflamed patches. Depending on the type of infection, these may also include blisters, weeping areas or sharply demarcated redness with a raised edge. Some fungi cause painful skin fissures, burning sensations or circular scaly patches, especially in infections of the hands, feet, face or groin.

Nail fungus appears as thickened, dull nails, discolorations in white, yellow or grey and brittle nail plates. In advanced stages the nail may detach from the nail bed, which can be painful.

Fungal infections of the scalp often lead to round areas of hair loss with fine scales, while fungal involvement of the face typically causes itching and light‑sensitive rashes.

A genital fungal infection, such as a vaginal yeast infection, typically causes burning, itching, a whitish‑curd‑like discharge and a red, swollen mucosa in women. Pain when urinating or during sexual intercourse is also common. Men can also suffer from genital fungal infections, for example inflammation of the glans with redness, itching and deposits.

Intestinal fungal infections usually present with digestive complaints such as bloating, diarrhoea or constipation. Sometimes fatigue, skin problems or concentration difficulties occur. Infections with moulds often lead to allergic skin reactions or respiratory problems, especially in sensitive people or those with weakened immune systems.

Invasion of the internal organs by fungi often produces non‑specific symptoms. Possible signs include fever, chills, weakness, breathing difficulties or abdominal pain. In more severe cases organ dysfunction or systemic symptoms may occur. Immediate medical assessment is then required.

How does a fungal infection develop?

A fungal infection develops when the balance between the body’s defences and normally harmless fungi is disturbed. Candida albicans is a yeast that naturally lives on the skin, mucous membranes or in the digestive tract of many people without causing problems. However, if there is a weakening of the immune system – for example due to illness, stress or taking antibiotics – the fungus can proliferate and cause disease.

Antibiotics disrupt the natural bacterial balance by destroying not only harmful but also beneficial microorganisms. This reduces protection against excessive fungal overgrowth. Excessive or inadequate hygiene can also impair the barrier function of skin and mucous membranes.

In the gut Candida albicans finds particularly favourable conditions. The fungus adheres to the intestinal mucosa, forms filaments and multiplies rapidly. It feeds mainly on sugar, producing gases during digestion that can cause bloating. Heavy colonisation can permanently disturb the balance of the gut flora.

In people with a severely weakened immune system – for example after chemotherapy, organ transplantation or major surgery – the fungus can invade deeper tissues and reach internal organs via the bloodstream. Such systemic infections are rare but dangerous and can, in the worst case, lead to life‑threatening sepsis.

Are fungal infections contagious?

Yes, fungal infections can be contagious, whether the skin, nails or mucous membranes are affected. Transmissibility depends not only on the fungal species but also on individual factors such as weakened immunity or small skin injuries. Infection is particularly likely through direct skin contact or indirectly via contaminated objects such as towels, doormats or nail scissors. Fungal spores stick to dead skin cells and can remain unnoticed on floors, clothing or other surfaces where they may cause new infections.

Public places such as swimming pools or saunas also carry an increased risk, especially when walking barefoot. Transmission can also occur at home if several people use the same hygiene items. Yeasts such as Candida albicans can be passed on by mucosal contact, for example during sexual intercourse. Some people carry fungal agents without symptoms and can still infect others.

How can a fungal infection be treated?

Fungal infections are generally treatable, especially if addressed early. Treatment is based on antifungal agents – substances that either inhibit fungal growth or kill the fungi. In most cases a topical application is sufficient, for example creams, ointments, medical lacquers or specific vaginal tablets. Many of these products are available over the counter at pharmacies and can be applied directly to the affected areas or inserted locally.

For advanced or particularly stubborn infections, such as nail infections, it is often necessary to take oral tablets in order to fight the fungi from the inside. A combination of local and systemic therapy can achieve the best healing results.

In the case of vaginal thrush, sometimes a simple change of local conditions is enough to make the environment less favourable to yeasts. Wearing breathable underwear, drying the intimate area well and avoiding irritating care products removes the fungi’s nutrient supply. It can also help to care for the skin regularly with a mild cream and to refrain from sexual intercourse during the infection.

Practical tips to protect yourself from fungal infections

• Always wear pool shoes in public areas such as swimming pools, saunas or changing rooms to protect your feet from infectious fungal spores on wet floors.
• Replace your sports shoes regularly, especially if they become very sweaty, as old shoes often provide an ideal breeding ground for fungal spores.
• Remove your street shoes at home immediately and store them open so they can air out and no fungal microclimate forms.
• Choose well‑fitting footwear and avoid shoes that are too tight, such as very pointed pumps, as pressure points and micro‑injuries make it easier for fungi to penetrate.
• Change your socks daily and immediately after exercise to avoid damp, warm conditions in the shoes that favour fungal pathogens.
• Prefer socks made of natural materials such as cotton or wool, as they absorb sweat better than synthetic fibres and thus improve the local skin climate.
• If necessary, use an antifungal disinfectant spray for shoes, especially for poorly ventilated models such as trainers or rubber boots.
• If you or someone else has a fungal infection, keep your towels strictly separate from those of other household members — this is particularly important in the bathroom.
• Wash infected laundry such as socks, towels and bedding at at least 60 °C or use an additional hygienic detergent to combat fungal spores.
• Strengthen your immune system with an alkaline, sugar‑free diet rich in fresh vegetables. This creates an unfavourable environment for fungi.
• Incorporate coconut oil into your diet, for example for cooking or taken directly. The caprylic acid it contains inhibits Candida fungi very effectively.
• To combat skin or intestinal fungi you can use oregano or oregano essential oil internally (e.g. in juice) and externally (mixed with coconut oil). Be cautious if you are known to be allergic to Lamiaceae.
• Also eat garlic, horseradish, cress and chilli regularly, as their constituents have antifungal effects and at the same time strengthen your defences.
• Protect yourself from fungal infections by regularly applying a suitable antifungal to your toes and avoiding risk factors such as immune deficiency. If you suspect candidiasis or an Aspergillus infection, consult a doctor early to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medication. Women and immunocompromised patients should pay particular attention to timely diagnosis.
• Pay attention to the hygiene of your partner and pets as well, since recurrent infections can be caused by asymptomatic carriers. Joint treatment is often necessary.

Fungal infections are widespread and can affect various parts of the body. It is therefore important to take early signs seriously and treat them promptly to prevent further spread.