Fungi are found everywhere in our environment, and some live in our bodies. These include beneficial and harmful types, which can lead to skin infections. Skin fungi can be caused by various factors, including inadequate personal hygiene or underlying health problems such as weak immunity or diabetes. Identifying these causes is crucial to preventing infection.

Below, we dive into the causes and risk factors associated with skin fungi:

Weak immune system:
Weak immunity emerges as a major cause of skin fungal infections. While our bodies encounter fungi and other microbes daily, a strong immune system usually fights them off. However, in cases of weakened immunity (for example, due to conditions such as cancer, organ transplantation, HIV, or the use of immunosuppressive drugs), the risk of developing skin fungal infections increases significantly. Factors such as nutrient deficiencies, stress, and smoking can also affect immune function.

Poor hygiene practices:
Skin fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so certain habits help them grow. These include neglecting to shower after exercising, wearing wet clothes for long periods, and not changing sweaty socks regularly.

Climate and humidity:
Skin fungal infections often peak during warm, humid weather. Walking barefoot in damp areas such as gyms, locker rooms, and public bathrooms can increase the risk of infection due to conditions that favor fungal growth.

Occupational exposure:
Jobs that involve exposure to soil or dirt increase susceptibility to skin fungi. Individuals who work in gardening, digging, or frequent contact with water are particularly at risk.

Animal contact:
Contact with infected animals, such as cats or dogs with ringworm, can transmit the skin fungus to humans. Animals may not show obvious symptoms but can still transmit the infection.

Poor blood circulation:
Reduced blood flow to the extremities weakens immune responses, contributing to skin fungal infections. Symptoms such as numbness, varicose veins, or slow wound healing may indicate poor circulation.

Diabetes:
Diabetes, characterized by high levels of sugar in body fluids, creates a fertile ground for fungal growth on the skin. In addition, diabetes compromises immune function and circulation, increasing the risk of infection.

Use of the medicine:
Some medications, such as immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, can weaken immunity and increase susceptibility to fungal infections, including skin thrush.

Injuries and wounds:
Skin wounds or nail injuries provide entry points for fungi, necessitating proper wound care and protection to prevent fungal infections.