The first symptom one usually becomes aware of is intense itchiness. On inspection of the source of the itchiness one will become aware of the second symptom which can be in several forms depending on the site. Initially one will observe if it is a fungal skin condition, a redness (inflammation) and there maybe some swelling. This will be followed by the area becoming slightly raised. . The third symptom will be a very unpleasant odour.

In Tinea pedis (Athletes Foot) the skin between the toes may have become broken which may worsen and lesions may appear with some dead skin around the periphery.

In cradle cap which affects infants and other Tinea capitis conditions in children there may be some scaling and yellow crustiness on the scalp and amongst the follicles.

Jock itch appears as a discoloration at the top of the legs in the groin and will become light brown in colour. It can spread to the testis and around the rectum.

Fungal nail is caused by one of several fungi and Candida each having its own distinct affect on the nail. Some will produce a white appearance with black spots as it matures while others will produce a yellow to light brown film across the nail.

Ringworm can appear as a red circle on the skin. However, it can also appear as a red splotch without any regular shape.

Mature fungi produce spores which are microscopic in size and are present in soil, plants and in the air as well as on most surfaces including our skin. Fungi can exist in dead skin cells for up to twelve months. They feed on dead and decaying matter.

Spores that settle on our skin (especially broken skin from chaffing, cuts and abrasions) will germinate very quickly (within hours) if the conditions are right (warm and moist).