Fungal Infections in Diabetics: Causes, Symptoms & Expert Care

Diabetes has now become a common condition, and almost 70% of people over the age of 40 have a high chance of developing it. But there’s something many people miss: fungal infections. These can start off small but turn serious quickly, especially if blood sugar isn’t controlled. From skin infections to dangerous ones that spread to your brain or lungs, fungal infections in diabetics shouldn’t be taken lightly.

And here’s the good news: with the right care, you can prevent, detect, and treat these infections early. That’s what Dr. Durai’s Diabetes and Foot Care Clinic is known for — giving diabetic patients the complete care they need, including expert fungal infection management.

So, whether you are a person who has symptoms, already has diabetes, or wants to know about this for your loved one, keep reading — this will for sure help you avoid serious complications and protect you.

Why Are Diabetics More Prone to Fungal Infections?

The problem starts with high blood sugar. When glucose levels are elevated, your immune system becomes weaker, and white blood cells don’t fight infections as they should. Poor blood circulation and nerve damage—both common in diabetic patients—make it harder for the body to heal or even feel early signs of infection.

Other risk factors include:

• Long-term antibiotic use
• Kidney problems needing dialysis
• Organ transplants
• Weak immune system (due to conditions like HIV/AIDS)
• Pregnancy or premature birth

Common Types of Fungal Infections in Diabetics

1. Candidiasis (Yeast Infections)

Candida is a fungus naturally found on our skin and inside the body, but it can grow out of control in diabetics.

• Skin Infections: They usually occur in moist areas of your body, like underarms, groin, under the breasts, or between toes. The skin may appear red and itchy and have a white coating or small red dots.
• Nail Infections: Start with redness and swelling around the nail. The nail might become discolored, painful, or even lift off.
• Oral Candidiasis: More common in people with diabetes. It causes white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or gums, often with a burning or dry sensation in the mouth.
• Vaginal Candidiasis: Women with uncontrolled diabetes are prone to this. Symptoms include itching, irritation, thick white discharge, and burning. Men can also develop similar infections.
• Urinary Tract Infections (Candiduria): Often symptomless but may cause pain or burning while urinating. This is seen more in diabetic patients using catheters.
• Systemic Candidiasis: A severe infection that spreads through the bloodstream, affecting major organs. Needs urgent care.

2. Mucormycosis (Black Fungus)

This aggressive fungal infection mainly targets people with poorly controlled diabetes, especially if diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is present.

• Rhinocerebral Mucormycosis: Begins in the nose or sinuses and spreads to the brain. Symptoms include headaches, facial pain, black lesions in the mouth or nose, and even vision loss.
• Pulmonary Mucormycosis: Affects the lungs. It can cause chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath.
• Cutaneous Mucormycosis: Affects the skin, usually through wounds or burns. Leads to ulcers and black, dead tissue.

This infection spreads fast and needs immediate antifungal treatment — and sometimes surgery.

3. Aspergillosis

It is caused by a fungus called Aspergillus. It’s more likely in those with weak immune systems. Though less common in diabetics, it can still affect the lungs or sinuses.

Prevention Tips for Diabetics

• Keep blood sugar levels under control.
• Avoid overuse of antibiotics.
• Practice good hygiene, especially in skin folds and feet.
• Stay alert to symptoms like itching, redness, discharge, or unexplained wounds.
• Visit your diabetes doctor if anything feels off — early treatment is key.

Where to Get the Right Treatment?

Dr. Durai’s Diabetes and Foot Care Clinic — Your Trusted Centre for Fungal Infection Care

Dr. Durai’s Clinic is one of the first clinics in Tamil Nadu to treat diabetes and footcare under the same roof. Here, patients receive complete diabetic care, from blood sugar control to complex foot issues to amputation. Dr. Durai and his team are famous for their deep understanding of how diabetes affects the body.

Here’s what sets the clinic apart:

• Expertise in diabetic fungal infections like candidiasis, mucormycosis, and more
• Early diagnosis using advanced tools
• Personalized treatment plans
• Excellent track record of success with even the most challenging cases

If you’ve noticed symptoms like itching, redness, white patches, nail changes, or anything, as mentioned in the blog, don’t wait. Fungal infections, when you already have diabetes, are hazardous. To visit our diabetes consultant, book your consultation with Dr. Durai today and protect your health before it’s too late.