Fungal infections – symptoms, causes and effective treatment

Fungal infections, also known as candidiasis, are very common in women, but they also affect men. They most often occur in the genital area, mouth, or skin, and cause discomfort, itching, and discharge. Although they rarely pose a serious threat to life, frequent or untreated infections can cause long-term problems and affect quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective treatment methods is key to a quick recovery and preventing recurrent infections.

Causes of fungal infections

1. Overgrowth of Candida fungi
   Candida albicans naturally lives in the body, for example in the digestive and genital systems. Under normal conditions, the immune system and healthy bacterial flora keep its growth under control. However, when an imbalance occurs, the fungi multiply rapidly, causing infection. Factors such as stress, weakened immunity, hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy or contraceptive pills), and diabetes increase the risk of infections.
2. Use of antibiotics and other medications
   Long-term use of antibiotics can destroy beneficial bacteria in the body, allowing Candida fungi to develop uncontrollably. Steroid medications and immunosuppressants can also increase susceptibility to infections.
3. Inadequate hygiene and a moist environment
   Wearing tight clothing or synthetic underwear, as well as prolonged wearing of wet clothes, creates ideal conditions for fungal growth. A moist and warm environment favors the proliferation of Candida albicans, which can lead to frequent infections.
4. Unbalanced diet and lifestyle
   A high intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol can stimulate fungal growth in the body. A lack of probiotics and fiber in the diet also disrupts the balance of intestinal flora, thereby increasing the risk of infections.

Symptoms of fungal infections

Symptoms depend on the site of infection:

• Genital area: itching, redness, burning, thick white discharge resembling cheese, pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
• Mouth (oral candidiasis): white patches on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, and palate, pain or a burning sensation in the mouth.
• Skin: redness, itching, rashes in skin folds (under the breasts, armpits, or groin).

In more severe cases, especially in people with weakened immunity, the infection can lead to elevated temperature, general weakness, and systemic symptoms.

Diagnosis and testing

Proper diagnosis is crucial because the symptoms of fungal infections can resemble bacterial or sexually transmitted infections. The doctor often takes swabs and samples for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of Candida fungi. In some cases, antifungal drug susceptibility testing may also be performed, especially if the infections recur or do not respond to standard treatment.

Treatment of fungal infections

1. Antifungal medications
   – Vaginal suppositories and creams: effective for genital infections and usually used for 3–7 days.
   – Oral antifungal medications: used for severe or recurrent infections, and for oral or systemic candidiasis.
   – Topical skin creams: used for infections in skin folds.
2. Natural approaches and dietary supplements
   – Yogurt and probiotics contain Lactobacillus bacteria that help restore the balance of microflora.
   – Keeping the skin dry and clean, avoiding excessive use of soap or irritating products.
   – Reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates in the diet
3. Changing lifestyle habits
   – Drying the skin after showering, especially in folds.
   – Wearing cotton underwear and clothing that allows the skin to breathe.
   – Avoiding tight synthetic clothing and prolonged sitting in wet clothes (e.g. a swimsuit).

Prevention of recurrent infections

• Regularly strengthening immunity through a healthy diet, exercise, and enough sleep.
• Monitoring digestive system health and regularly taking probiotics.
• Maintaining proper hygiene of the genital area and skin.
• Reducing the intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates that promote the growth of Candida fungi.
• Avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics and self-medication without consulting a doctor.

Fungal infections can be unpleasant and affect everyday life, but in most cases they are completely curable. Timely diagnosis, the use of antifungal medications, and changes in lifestyle habits are key to a quick recovery and preventing recurrent infections. If symptoms recur or do not disappear despite treatment, it is important to consult a doctor in order to rule out more serious health problems or systemic infections. Regular hygiene, probiotics, and a balanced diet are the most important allies in the long-term preservation of health and reducing the risk of fungal infections.

Author: Martin Drinković, M.D.