Candidiasis & bull; hello healthy

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Definition

What is candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by a type of fungus, namely Candida, or Candida albicans. Candidiasis can affect the genital areas, mouth, skin, and blood. In addition, certain medications and health conditions can cause more fungus to grow, especially in warm, moist areas of the body. Candidiasis of the vagina is called yeast vaginitis and candidiasis of the mouth is known as thrush . Candidiasis symptoms vary depending on the area of ​​infection. You may have red or white skin patches that cause itching and irritation. Other signs include difficulty swallowing or pain.

Candidiasis can cause discomfort but is not life threatening. There are several forms of candidiasis that are serious and require medical treatment, such as candidiasis that gets into the bloodstream, also known as candidemia or invasive candidiasis.

How common is candidiasis?

Candidiasis is very common, especially in women. However candidiasis can also occur in men and children. Candidiasis often affects people with weakened immune systems, such as pregnant women, people with diabetes, babies, and people with HIV or AIDS. You can reduce your risk of developing candidiasis by washing your hands and maintaining personal hygiene.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of candidiasis?

Symptoms of candidiasis can vary and depend on the area of ​​infection. Here are some of the common symptoms that can occur:

• Skin area. You may have red or white skin that is itchy, sore, and inflamed.
• Genital area. In women, vaginal yeast infection can cause symptoms of extreme itching, redness, and pain in the vaginal area. The vaginal discharge looks white and thick. In men, symptoms can include pain, itching, and burning at the tip of the penis. Men and women can feel pain during sex.
• Mouth and esophagus. Often called thrush , can produce white patches on the tongue and mouth. The gums can also become swollen with red and white sores. Candida esophagitis affecting the esophagus can cause pain and difficulty swallowing.
• Blood flow and other organs. Known as candidemia, it can result in fever and chills.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Symptoms that get worse or don't improve within 1 week.
• White sores on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums and tonsils.
• The wound is slightly raised
• Redness or pain that is severe enough to cause difficulty eating or swallowing
• Bleeds a little when the wound rubs
• Cracking or redness at the edges of the mouth.

Cause

What causes candidiasis?

The main cause of candidiasis is the fungus Candida or Candida albicans. This fungus is found almost everywhere, including your body. Fungus grows in areas where there is moisture and heat, such as the genital area and certain areas of the skin. Fungus can grow in people with weak immune systems, such as pregnant women, people with diabetes, or HIV or AIDS. Long-term use of antibiotics can kill the natural bacteria that are in your body, allowing Candida to grow.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for candidiasis?

There are many risk factors for candidiasis, namely:

• Have a weak immune system (infants, pregnant women, the elderly)
• Are on certain medications, such as antibiotics, corticosteroids to drink or inhale
• Undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer
• Experiencing a condition that causes dry mouth
• Women with high estrogen levels
• Have diabetes that is not well controlled
• Being sexually active can increase the risk (however, Candidiasis is not one of the sexually transmitted diseases)
• Poor hygiene habits
• Using dentures.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is candidiasis diagnosed?

Depending on the type of infection, your doctor will look at your medical history and perform a thorough physical exam.

The doctor will take a sample from the infected area, such as the genitals or mouth, and send it to a laboratory for diagnosis. In more serious cases, an ultrasound or CT scan may be needed to examine the brain, kidneys, liver or lymph nodes for candida sores.

How to treat candidiasis?

Candidiasis is treated using antifungals, a type of medicine used to treat fungal infections. The specific type of antifungal depends on the type of infection. You should consult with your doctor to find out which treatment is right for you. Your doctor may recommend medications for:

• Mouth and respiratory tract: nystatin, clotrimazole, fluconazole, itraconazole
• Esophagus : nystatin, fluconazole, itraconazole
• Skin area : external drugs such as nystatin, miconazole, clotrimazole, naftifine, and ketoconazole
• Vaginal area : topical clotrimazole, miconazole, butoconazole, terponazole, tioconazole
• Blood flow : anidulafungin, caspofungin, micafungin or amphotericin B

The drugs mentioned above are just a few examples. You should discuss with your doctor if you have any questions about prescription medications. Make sure to complete therapy completely. Wearing loose clothing and keeping skin cool and dry can also help. Vaginal candidiasis usually resolves in 4 to 7 days. C

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat candidiasis?

Here are the lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with candidiasis:

• Practice good dental hygiene. Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day and floss once a day. Change toothbrushes frequently until the infection clears up. Don't take turns brushing your teeth.
• Gargle with warm salt water. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt (2.5 mL) in 1 cup (235 mL) of warm water. Gargle and discard the solution, do not swallow it.

• Use nursing pads if you are breastfeeding and have a yeast infection. Use a pad to help prevent the fungus from spreading to your clothes. Choose a pad that is not made of plastic, which is where the candida can grow. If you're not using disposable pads, wash the nursing pads and bras in hot water with bleach.
• Maintain sugar levels. Make sure your blood sugar levels are under control, if you have diabetes.
• Avoid potential irritants. Irritants such as scented soaps, shower gels, deodorants, wet wipes and vaginal cleaners can cause or worsen the infection.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing. Tight underwear, leggings, and pants can leave the genital area moist, leading to infection.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.