Fungal Infection

Certain types of fungi (such as Candida) are normally present on body surfaces or in the intestines. Although normally harmless, these fungi sometimes cause local infections of the skin and nails, vagina, mouth (lip, tongue and Gingivitis), or sinuses. They seldom cause serious harm, except in people with a weakened immune system or with foreign material (such as an intravenous catheter) in their body.

Sometimes, the normal balances that keep fungi in check are upset and infections occur. For example, the bacteria normally present in the digestive tract and vagina limit the growth of certain fungi in those areas. When a person takes antibiotics, those helpful bacteria can be killed—allowing the fungi to grow unchecked. The resulting overgrowth of fungi can cause symptoms, which are usually mild. As the bacteria grow back, the balance is restored, and the problem usually resolves.

Some fungal infections can be serious in otherwise healthy people.

Because many fungal infections develop slowly, months or years may pass before a person seeks medical attention.