Candida is a strain of fungus that can cause an infection in  skin, among other locations. In normal conditions, skin may host small amounts of this fungus. Problems arise when it begins to multiply and creates an overgrowth.  The majority of infections are caused by a species called Candida albicans.

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TYPES OF CANDIDA FUNGUS SKIN INFECTIONS INCLUDE:

  • Athlete’s foot
  • oral thrush
  • Vaginal yeast infection
  • nail fungus
  • jock itch
  • diaper rash

Invasive candidiasis occurs when candida enters the bloodstream. 

CAUSES OF CANDIDA

Candida skin infections can occur on almost any area of the body, but they are more commonly found in intertriginous regions. This is where two skin areas touch or rub together. Such areas include the armpits, groin, and skin folds, as well as the area between your fingers and toes. The fungus thrives in warm, moist, and sweaty conditions.

Normally, skin acts as an effective barrier against infection. However, any cuts or breakdown in the superficial layers of the skin may allow the fungus to cause infection. Candida becomes pathogenic, or capable of causing disease, when conditions are favorable for it to multiply. Hot and humid weather, poor hygiene, or restrictive clothing may produce these conditions.

These aren’t the only risk factors to consider. Candida infections also tend to be more prevalent in:

  • infants
  • people who are overweight
  • people with diabetes
  • people with an underactive thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism
  • people with inflammatory disorders
  • people with a weakened immune system
  • people working in wet conditions
  • pregnant women

Certain medications may also increase the risk for this type of fungal infection. Topical corticosteroid medications are the most problematic, but birth control pills and antibiotics are other possible causes.

SYMPTOMS OF CANDIDA

Symptoms vary depending on body location, but include the following:

  • rashes
  • red or purple patches (area with an altered surface)
  • white, flaky substance over affected areas
  • scaling, or shedding of the skin with flakes
  • cracks in the skin
  • soreness
  • erythema, which results in areas of rednessUploaded Image
  • maceration, or the appearance of soft white skin
  • creamy satellite pustules at margins of affected areas (pimples filled with pus)
  • red and white lesions in  mouth, as seen in oral thrush

CANDIDA INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN

Children can more prone to candida fungus skin infections when compared to adults. Children are most likely to develop sinus infections, skin rashes (including diaper rash), oral thrush, and earaches from candida overgrowth.

Symptoms in babies and toddlers can include:

  • persistent and heavy diaper rash
  • skin rashes that resemble eczema
  • white or yellow patches on the tongue or inside of the mouth or cheeks
  • being colicky for longer than three months
  • recurrent ear problems
  • symptoms that worsen in damp environments or in damp weather

SYMPTOMS IN OLDER CHILDREN INCLUDE:

  • constantly craving sweets
  • learning disabilities
  • often being irritable or unhappy
  • recurrent ear problems
  • symptoms that worsen in damp environments or in damp weather

PREVENTION 

  • Wear “dri-fit” clothing that helps wick away moisture from your skin.
  • Keep your armpits, groin area, and other areas that are prone to infection clean and dry.
  • Always shower and dry yourself thoroughly after activities where you sweat.
  • If you are overweight or obese, properly dry your skin folds.
  • Wear sandals or other open-toe footwear when it’s warm.
  • Change your socks and underwear regularly.