What are the common symptoms of cutaneous yeast infections. How can you identify a candida skin infection. What are the most effective treatment options for fungal skin infections. Why do some people develop recurrent yeast infections on their skin.

Understanding Cutaneous Yeast Infections: An Overview

Cutaneous yeast infections, medically known as cutaneous candidiasis, are fungal infections that affect the skin. These infections are primarily caused by Candida albicans, a type of yeast that naturally exists on human skin. While typically harmless, certain conditions can lead to an overgrowth of this fungus, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms and visible skin changes.

Candida infections can occur on various parts of the body, but they tend to thrive in warm, moist areas like skin folds, armpits, and the groin region. Understanding the nature of these infections, their causes, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Cutaneous Candidiasis

Identifying a yeast infection on the skin is the first step towards proper treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Intense itching in the affected area
• Red, growing skin rash
• Rash in skin folds, genitals, middle of the body, buttocks, and under the breasts
• Infection of hair follicles resembling pimples
• Burning or soreness in the infected area
• Cracked or peeling skin

In infants, candida is a common cause of diaper rash, taking advantage of the warm, moist conditions inside the diaper. The rash may appear red, with satellite lesions surrounding the main affected area.

How does a cutaneous yeast infection differ from other skin conditions?

Cutaneous yeast infections often have a characteristic appearance and distribution that sets them apart from other skin conditions. The rash typically has well-defined edges and may be accompanied by smaller satellite lesions. Additionally, the intense itching and location in moist areas of the body are hallmark signs of candida infections.

Causes and Risk Factors for Developing Skin Yeast Infections

Several factors can contribute to the development of cutaneous candidiasis:

1. Warm, moist environments that promote fungal growth
2. Weakened immune system
3. Diabetes or obesity
4. Antibiotic use, which can disrupt the balance of skin microorganisms
5. Steroid therapy or chemotherapy
6. Tight-fitting clothing that traps moisture against the skin
7. Poor hygiene practices

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and reduce their likelihood of developing cutaneous yeast infections.

Why are some people more prone to recurring yeast infections?

Certain individuals may experience recurrent yeast infections due to underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or HIV, which compromise the immune system. Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can also increase susceptibility. Additionally, lifestyle factors like frequent antibiotic use or wearing tight, non-breathable clothing can create an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth.

Diagnosing Cutaneous Candidiasis: What to Expect

If you suspect you have a cutaneous yeast infection, consulting a healthcare provider is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The diagnostic process typically involves:

• Visual examination of the affected skin
• Gentle scraping of the skin for laboratory testing
• Possible blood sugar testing, especially in older children and adults, to check for diabetes

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other skin conditions or underlying health issues that may be contributing to the infection.

Can cutaneous yeast infections be diagnosed at home?

While certain characteristics of yeast infections may be recognizable, a definitive diagnosis should always be made by a healthcare professional. Self-diagnosis can lead to improper treatment and potentially worsen the condition. If you suspect a yeast infection, it’s best to seek medical advice for proper evaluation and care.

Effective Treatment Options for Skin Yeast Infections

Treatment for cutaneous candidiasis aims to eliminate the fungal overgrowth and alleviate symptoms. Common treatment approaches include:

1. Topical antifungal medications (creams, ointments, or powders)
2. Oral antifungal medications for severe or persistent infections
3. Keeping the affected area clean and dry
4. Using moisture-absorbing powders in skin folds
5. Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing

The duration of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual response to therapy. It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.

Are there any natural remedies for treating cutaneous yeast infections?

While medical treatments are most effective, some natural remedies may help manage symptoms or support conventional treatments. These include:

• Applying tea tree oil (diluted with a carrier oil) to the affected area
• Using coconut oil, which has antifungal properties
• Probiotic supplements to support a healthy balance of skin microorganisms
• Garlic, known for its antifungal properties, can be consumed or applied topically (with caution)

It’s important to note that natural remedies should not replace prescribed treatments and should be discussed with a healthcare provider before use.

Preventing Recurrence: Strategies for Long-Term Management

Preventing future yeast infections is an essential part of managing cutaneous candidiasis. Key strategies include:

• Maintaining good hygiene practices
• Keeping skin dry, especially in prone areas
• Wearing breathable, loose-fitting clothing
• Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes
• Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use
• Using probiotics to support a healthy skin microbiome

For individuals prone to recurrent infections, working closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized prevention plan is crucial.

How can dietary changes help prevent cutaneous yeast infections?

While the direct impact of diet on skin yeast infections is not fully established, some dietary modifications may support overall skin health and immune function. These include:

• Reducing sugar and refined carbohydrate intake
• Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir
• Consuming foods with antifungal properties, such as garlic and coconut oil
• Staying hydrated to support skin health

It’s important to note that dietary changes should complement, not replace, medical treatments and preventive strategies recommended by healthcare professionals.

Special Considerations: Yeast Infections in Specific Populations

Certain groups may require special attention when it comes to cutaneous yeast infections:

Infants and Diaper Rash

Candida is a common cause of diaper rash in infants. Prevention strategies include:

• Frequent diaper changes
• Allowing the diaper area to air dry
• Using barrier creams to protect the skin
• Avoiding tight-fitting diapers

Individuals with Diabetes

People with diabetes are at higher risk for yeast infections due to elevated blood sugar levels. Management strategies include:

• Maintaining good blood sugar control
• Regular skin inspections, especially in skin folds
• Prompt treatment of any skin irritations or infections

Immunocompromised Patients

Those with weakened immune systems, such as individuals with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience more severe or persistent infections. Close monitoring and aggressive treatment are often necessary for this population.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Skin Yeast Infection

While many cases of cutaneous candidiasis can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, certain situations warrant professional medical care:

• Persistent symptoms despite home treatment
• Severe pain, redness, or swelling
• Fever or chills accompanying the skin infection
• Recurrent infections
• Infections in individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems

Timely medical intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment, especially in high-risk individuals.

Can untreated cutaneous yeast infections lead to serious complications?

While most skin yeast infections are not life-threatening, untreated cases can potentially lead to more serious issues, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Possible complications include:

• Spread of the infection to deeper layers of skin or other body parts
• Secondary bacterial infections
• Chronic, recurring infections that impact quality of life
• In severe cases, systemic candidiasis (though rare in individuals with healthy immune systems)

These potential complications underscore the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous yeast infections.

Candida infection of the skin Information | Mount Sinai

Skin infection – fungal; Fungal infection – skin; Skin infection – yeast; Yeast infection – skin; Intertriginous candidiasis; Cutaneous candidiasis

Candida infection of the skin is a yeast infection of the skin. The medical name of the condition is cutaneous candidiasis.

This microscopic film shows a fluorescent stain of Candida. Candida is a yeast (fungus) that causes mild disease, but in immunocompromised individuals it may cause life-threatening illness. (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

This child has a large rash caused by candidiasis, affecting the skin around the mouth. There are also other lesions that aren’t connected to the large lesion, called satellite lesions.

Fungal infections are caused by microscopic organisms (fungi) that can live on the skin. They can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.

Causes

The body normally hosts a variety of germs, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body, some produce no harm or benefit, and some can cause harmful infections.

Some fungal infections are caused by fungi that often live on the hair, nails, and outer skin layers. They include yeast-like fungi such as candida. Sometimes, these yeast penetrate beneath the surface of the skin and cause infection.

In cutaneous candidiasis, the skin is infected with candida fungi. This type of infection is fairly common. It can involve almost any skin on the body, but most often it occurs in warm, moist, creased areas such as the armpits and groin. The fungus that most often causes cutaneous candidiasis is Candida albicans.

Candida is the most common cause of diaper rash in infants. The fungi take advantage of the warm, moist conditions inside the diaper. Candida infection is also particularly common in people with diabetes and in those who are obese. Antibiotics, steroid therapy, and chemotherapy increase the risk of cutaneous candidiasis. Candida can also cause infections of the nails, edges of the nails, and corners of the mouth.

Oral thrush, a form of candida infection of the moist lining of the mouth, usually occurs when people take antibiotics though only a small number of people who take antibiotics get thrush. It may also be a sign of an HIV infection or other weakened immune system disorders when it occurs in adults. Individuals with candida infections are not usually contagious, though in some settings people with weakened immune systems may catch the infection. When it occurs in the mouth or vagina, it is sometimes called mucocutaneous candidiasis.

Candida is also the most frequent cause of vaginal yeast infections. These infections are common and often occur with antibiotic use.

Symptoms

Candida infection of the skin can cause intense itching.

Symptoms also include:

• Red, growing skin rash
• Rash on the skin folds, genitals, middle of the body, buttocks, under the breasts, and other areas of skin
• Infection of the hair follicles that may look like pimples

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin. Your provider may gently scrape off a sample of skin for testing.

Older children and adults with a yeast skin infection should be tested for diabetes. High sugar levels, seen in people with diabetes, act as food for the yeast fungus and help it grow.

Treatment

Good general health and hygiene are very important for treating candida infections of the skin. Keeping the skin dry and exposed to air is helpful. Drying (absorbent) powders may help prevent fungal infections.

Losing weight may help eliminate the problem if you are overweight.

Proper blood sugar control may also be helpful to those with diabetes.

Antifungal skin creams, ointments, or powders may be used to treat a yeast infection of the skin, mouth, or vagina. You may need to take antifungal medicine by mouth for severe candida infections in the mouth, throat, or vagina.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Cutaneous candidiasis often goes away with treatment, especially if the underlying cause is corrected. Repeat infections are common.

Possible Complications

These complications may occur:

• Infection of the nails may cause the nails to become oddly shaped and may cause an infection around the nail.
• Candida skin infections may return.
• Widespread candidiasis may occur in people with weakened immune systems.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if you develop symptoms of cutaneous candidiasis.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Fungal diseases: candidiasis. www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/index.html. Updated June 28, 2022. Accessed January 3, 2023.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Diseases resulting from fungi and yeasts. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 15.

Lionakis MS, Edwards JE. Candida species. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 256.

Last reviewed on: 12/4/2022

Reviewed by: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Associate in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Pictures of Fungal Skin Infections

Medically Reviewed by Debra Jaliman, MD on August 20, 2022

Fungal skin infections can be itchy and annoying, but they’re rarely serious. Common infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm are caused by fungus and are easy to get and to pass around. In healthy people, they usually don’t spread beyond the skin’s surface, so they’re easy to treat. If you spend a lot of time at the gym, take steps to protect yourself against fungal infections.

Ringworm isn’t caused by worms. This raised, red, circular, itchy fungal infection can occur on the body or scalp. You’re at greater risk if you come in contact with a pet or person with ringworm or with contaminated items. Prevent it by keeping your body clean and dry. It’s easily spread, so don’t share towels, combs, or other personal items.

Itchy, burning, cracked, and peeling feet? Athlete’s foot is a form of ringworm that usually develops between the toes. It can spread via wet locker room floors and contaminated towels and shoes. Prevent it by wearing shower shoes at the gym, washing your feet daily, drying them well, and wearing clean socks.

A raised, itchy, red rash around your groin means you probably have jock itch, which can affect men and women. It’s another type of ringworm, and it can be caused by sweating and the humid environment often created by athletic gear. You can prevent it by keeping your groin clean and dry, changing into dry, clean clothes and underwear every day, and avoiding tight clothing.

Brittle, discolored, thick nails may mean you have nail fungus. It can affect fingernails or toenails. Prevent nail fungus by keeping hands and feet clean and dry, wearing dry socks and changing them often, wearing shoes in a public shower, pool, or locker room, and not scratching infected skin, such as athlete’s foot. Wear wide-toed shoes (so toes aren’t crammed together), and don’t share nail clippers.

Change out of your gym clothes right after a workout. Sweaty gear provides a perfect home for fungi and other germs to thrive and grow. Wash exercise clothes after each use. Wear clean clothes before each workout.

To prevent fungal infections from taking a foothold at home, your best defense is to keep skin clean and dry. Change underwear and socks daily. Let your sneakers air out and wash them regularly. Take your shoes off at home to expose your feet to the air.

To fight fungal infections at the gym, wear shower shoes in the locker room and avoid sitting on wet benches. Don’t share workout mats or towels. Wash your hands before and after a workout, and don’t forget to wipe down gym equipment before and after using it.

Despite your best efforts at prevention, you think you have a fungal infection. Now what? First, talk to your doctor. Other skin problems can look a lot like fungal infections, but require different treatment. For mild infections, topical medication may be all you need. Stubborn infections could require oral prescription drugs.

Fungal skin and nail infections may look bad, but they rarely lead to more than itching and irritation. Still, if you’re worried about your jock itch, athlete’s foot, or any rash, talk to your health care provider.

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1)   Comstock
2)   Copyright © 2011 Dr. H.C. Robinson / Photo Researchers, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
3)   Copyright © 2011 SPL / Photo Researchers, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
4)   Copyright © 2011 Dr. Harout Tanielian / Photo Researchers, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
5)   Copyright © 2011 Dr. P. Marazzi / Photo Researchers, Inc. All Rights Reserved
6)   Andrew Olney / Photodisc
7)   Helena Wahlman / Maskot
8)   Sanna Lindberg / PhotoAlto Agency RF Collections
9)   ALLESALLTAG BILDAGENT
10)   Terje Rakke / The Image Bank

SOURCES:

American Academy of Family Physicians: “Tinea Infections: Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch and Ringworm,” “Fungal Infections of Fingernails and Toenails.”

CDC: “Lurking in the Locker Room.”

KidsHealth: “Fungal Infections,” “Jock Itch.”

National Institutes of Health: “Athlete’s Foot.”

PubMed Health: “Ringworm.”

Simmons College: “Gym Hygiene: How to Reduce the Risk of Infections in the Gym.”

University of California, Davis: “Nail Fungal Infections. “

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas: “Health Watch – Toxic Gym Clothes.”

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How does thrush occur in women. Causes, symptoms and treatment

Vaginal candidiasis or thrush is a fungal infection of the vaginal mucosa. The disease usually occurs in young and sexually active women. But the appearance of symptoms of thrush and in postmenopause is possible. Candida is the causative agent of thrush. They belong to the conditionally pathogenic flora, which is characteristic of the female vagina. Under the influence of various adverse factors, fungi begin to actively multiply, causing signs of thrush in women.

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Causes of thrush

It is believed that candidiasis is not sexually transmitted. But after intimate contact with a woman who has acute symptoms of thrush, a man may experience short-term signs of inflammation of the head of the penis. They are manifested by redness, the appearance of white particles on the skin of the penis, resembling discharge from thrush. Usually, such manifestations disappear on their own after a few days, since Candida fungi cannot live on a man’s genitals for a long time.

Predisposing factors for the development of the disease are:

• hyperhidrosis;
• damage to the epithelial barrier of the vagina;
• diabetes mellitus;
• endocrine disorders;
• long-term use of broad-spectrum antibiotics;
• conditions of reduced immunity;
• cancers;
• venereal infections;
• genital surgery, abortion, diagnostic curettage of the uterus;
• General and local use of corticosteroids.

The development of vaginal candidiasis is promoted by malnutrition, a high content of sweets in a woman’s diet: simple carbohydrates help create a favorable environment for yeast-like fungi. Provoking factors include deficiency of vitamins A, B1, B2 or iron, alcoholism and blood diseases, the use of hormonal contraceptives, lack of healthy hygiene, early onset of sexual activity, frequent change of partners.

Pregnant women are especially prone to fungal infections due to hormonal changes, reduced immunity, and disruption of the natural microflora of the vagina. The fungus multiplies rapidly on the moist, warm, and nutrient-rich vaginal mucosa. Even a slight influence of adverse factors can cause an active build-up of Candida colonies on the mucosa and the appearance of acute symptoms of thrush, which can be quite difficult to get rid of.

Thrush symptoms

Vaginal candidiasis can cause symptoms such as persistent itching, burning, and soreness of the vulva (especially during intercourse or urination) and a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Some patients have elevated body temperature. But hyperthermia is characteristic of the combined course of a fungal infection with other diseases (cystitis, ureaplasmosis, syphilis, cervicitis). Other characteristic symptoms are redness, swelling, white lumpy mucous deposits and dark red erythema on the mucous membrane of the labia.

Symptoms of thrush can be acute, when a woman notes abundant curdled discharge from the genital tract with a sour smell, combined with severe itching, and chronic – without obvious manifestations. Long-term vaginal candidiasis of the external genital organs is dangerous for women’s health, as it disrupts the internal microflora, increases the risk of progression of a secondary infection, and can cause problems with conception in the future.

Diagnostics

An accurate diagnosis of a woman with external signs of thrush can be made using a microscopic examination of smears. Tank inoculation shows a large number of colonies of yeast-like fungi Candida. They must be differentiated from other pathogens by ELISA, PCR.

If it is necessary to identify concomitant diseases and obtain a complete picture of the condition of the genitourinary organs of the patient, gynecologists prescribe an ultrasound scan of the pelvic organs and the bladder. Hormonal disorders can be detected using laboratory blood tests.

Medical treatment

Therapeutic options in the treatment of thrush in women have increased significantly in recent years. Treatment of vaginal candidiasis is prescribed by a gynecologist. It is necessary to consult a doctor even with minor manifestations of the disease. Against the background of symptoms of thrush, more serious diseases of the genital organs, diseases of the endocrine system can progress. A fungal infection with a long course should be especially alarming. She often speaks of a predisposition to diabetes mellitus or already developing endocrine diseases.

Modern antifungal agents are used for topical treatment. They may be in the form of suppositories, vaginal tablets, ointments or creams. If there is no effect, antifungal treatment of thrush in women with systemic drugs is introduced. Some medicines can be taken once a day. They act immediately and do not require repeated use.

It is useful for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis to use products containing probiotic bacteria that restore balance in the biocenosis of the vaginal microflora.

In the chronic course of vaginal candidiasis, antifungal drugs are prescribed in courses. Thrush of the vaginal type can be combined with damage to the oral mucosa. This indicates a serious decrease in immunity, the development of hormonal disorders. In this case, specialists prescribe an additional intake of antibiotics and drug therapy for the identified pathologies.

Drug treatment of vaginal candidiasis can be supplemented with topical application of anti-inflammatory compounds and disinfectants. Experts prescribe douching and baths using potassium permanganate, silver nitrate. To increase the protective properties of the vaginal mucosa and maintain the constancy of the internal microflora, drugs with an immunostimulating effect are used. It is possible to prescribe probiotics and prebiotics: thrush often progresses against the background of intestinal dysbacteriosis. Sometimes it is enough to normalize the work of the gastrointestinal tract to get rid of frequent exacerbations of thrush.

Antibiotics for vaginal candidiasis are prescribed only for special indications. The use of antibacterial drugs can increase the symptoms of thrush in a woman. Practice good personal hygiene, including changing your underwear frequently and washing your genitals with warm soapy water. For intimate places, you need to use a separate towel. For regular personal hygiene, products containing lactic acid sticks have proven themselves well.

During the period of exacerbation, it is best to refuse to use sponges, hard towels: additional damage to the irritated mucosa can aggravate the course of candidiasis. The mucosa in the acute period is edematous, easily injured and may begin to bleed. It is recommended to wear cotton underwear. Do not visit the pool or sauna for the period of treatment. During menstruation, it is better to use sanitary pads instead of tampons or vaginal cups.

It is worth following an antifungal diet, which includes the elimination of simple sugars. The high carbohydrate content found in sugary sodas, baked goods, candy, and other sweets maintain conditions favorable for yeast growth.

For sitz baths, infusions of calendula, chamomile, and sage are suitable. In the home treatment of vaginal candidiasis, you can combine the remedies prescribed by the doctor with external use of a decoction or infusions of herbs that have an anti-inflammatory effect on the vaginal mucosa.

Thrush in pregnancy

Against the background of hormonal changes, many women experience symptoms of thrush during pregnancy. Candidiasis can persist throughout the entire period of bearing a child. The high concentration of progesterone, characteristic of pregnant women, the release of substances that prevent rejection of the fetus, contribute to the long course of thrush.

Often, vaginal candidiasis is combined with bacterial vaginosis. Therefore, even minor manifestations of thrush during pregnancy require additional consultation with a gynecologist and a clarifying diagnosis. It is enough to carry out a smear on the flora or a PCR study. If, in addition to yeast-like fungi, potentially dangerous microorganisms enter the vaginal flora, appropriate treatment should be carried out to avoid complications in the future.

Treatment of thrush during pregnancy

Many gynecologists do not carry out serious treatment for thrush, as they consider it useless. Due to certain changes in the hormonal background and local immunity, antifungal drugs will not give a complete recovery. Systemic antimycotics during pregnancy are not recommended due to possible harm to the unborn child.

Local preparations in the form of vaginal suppositories contribute to the disappearance of the symptoms of thrush for a certain period of time. But in most women, vaginal candidiasis persists until the very birth. This refers to the variant of the norm, if, according to the results of smears, a woman does not have microorganisms that are unusual for the normal microflora of the vagina. To prevent infectious complications, including in the fetus, a few weeks before childbirth, specialists prescribe vaginal suppositories for the sanitation of the genital tract.

Additionally, it is recommended to wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics throughout pregnancy. Contributes to the development of pregnancy constant moist environment in the genital area due to the use of panty liners. Linen must be breathable. It is better to refuse panty liners, even if the manufacturer claims that they are made from natural fabrics.

Hygiene of the external genital organs is also extremely important during pregnancy. Due to a decrease in local immunity, the risk of infectious diseases and allergic reactions increases. Hygiene products should have the most natural composition. It is better to use gels that contain uric acid. It inhibits the active reproduction of yeast-like fungi, prevents frequent relapses of vaginal candidiasis in women.

If a sexual partner shows signs of balanoposthitis provoked by fungi, it is necessary to conduct a course of treatment with antimycotics and antibiotics. Otherwise, the woman will be re-infected from the man.

You also need to make adjustments to your diet. During pregnancy, it is not recommended to consume a large number of sweets. Sugar should be replaced with honey if there is no allergic reaction. With severe symptoms of vaginal candidiasis during pregnancy, it is recommended to additionally check the level of glucose in the blood. By the appearance of thrush are women prone to the development of diabetes. During pregnancy, it can occur in a latent form.

Prevention

Prevention of the development of thrush in women is to prevent conditions that contribute to the active reproduction of yeast-like fungi. It is necessary to maintain a healthy microflora of the vagina with the help of regular hygiene measures. For the care of the external genital organs, it is recommended to use products without fragrances and dyes and aggressive chemical components. They irritate the mucous membrane, contributing to the appearance of local inflammation and acute symptoms of thrush in women.

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Thrush (candidiasis) in the mouth – treatment, types and causes of the disease

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Oral candidiasis refers to diseases of the inflammatory type. It can develop due to damage to the mucosa. Thrush in the mouth in adults and children is formed due to the defeat of the Candida fungus. Doctors often associate this disease with a decrease in immunity. According to recent studies, about 90% of the population are carriers of this fungus. Most often, the presence of this fungus does not manifest itself.

Causes of candidiasis

Oral candidiasis can be a sign that there are big problems in the body. In order for the fungus to actively multiply, special conditions are required. As a rule, those who ignore oral hygiene face candidiasis in the mouth. Increase the risk of caries, gum disease. All this in combination has a detrimental effect on the protective barrier of our body.

Another list of causes is the presence of the following diseases:

• human immunodeficiency virus;
• diabetes mellitus;
• the presence of malignant tumors;
• vitamin deficiency;
• dystrophy;
• severe infectious diseases;
• recent surgery.

There are also specific reasons for the development of candidiasis. For example, thrush can form after long-term antibiotic treatment. The use of such strong medicines adversely affects not only the harmful microflora, but is also capable of killing the beneficial one. This causes an imbalance and promotes the reproduction of the fungus.

Also, the disease can develop after inhalation with corticosteroids. In this case, ulcers will appear in those places where there was contact with medicines. Affects the reproduction of the fungus and the diet. Consumption of large amounts of carbohydrates causes Candida activity.

Increase the risk of thrush and bad habits. In particular, smoking. Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis is common in people with tongue piercings.

Among the risks is the presence of bridges. However, there is a risk only if the patient does not comply with hygiene standards. Therefore, it is important to carefully disinfect as a preventive measure against candidiasis. In addition, do not forget to remove the prosthesis at night. Otherwise, the disease will progress very actively. Also, during sleep, the prosthesis can provoke microdamages, which affects not only the mucosa, but also the state of the enamel.

Quite often, candidiasis can be caused by drying out of the mucosa. Often this factor is accompanied by other diseases. Therefore, it is important to consider all the symptoms.

Oral candidiasis is much more common in children than in adults. Doctors explain this by the fact that the child has not yet fully formed immunity. Therefore, bacteria enter the baby’s body during childbirth.

Types of oral candidiasis and symptoms

Depending on the individual case, symptoms may vary. This is also affected by the level of damage to the mucous membranes. There are several forms of the disease:

• acute pseudomembranous;
• acute atrophic;
• chronic atrophic;
• hyperplastic in the chronic stage.

Despite the different symptoms, the treatment for all forms is almost identical.

Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis

This form often occurs without any special symptoms. The patient only feels a slight discomfort associated with the appearance of a light film on the mucosa. If the disease proceeds easily, the film lags behind the mucosa without effort. In this case, the part under the film is painted in a bright pink hue. If the disease is severe, the plaques will be larger. Most often, the severe course of the disease occurs in infants. Less common in adults after taking antibiotics or corticosteroids.

Acute and chronic atrophic candidiasis

A vivid symptom of the acute form is too active burning. In this case, a light coating may not even form. Most patients report a metallic taste in their mouth. There may also be a salty or bitter taste. A separate symptom, many patients with this form of candidiasis called dryness of the oral mucosa. Most often, this form provokes the intake of appropriate medications.

Chronic atrophic candidiasis is characterized by less pronounced redness and itching. The most common cause of the development of the disease is the installation of prostheses.

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis mainly occurs in adult patients. The spread of the fungus can even go to the corners of the mouth, affects the lips, soft palate. The resulting ulcers and plaques begin to merge together. With the course of the disease, they become covered with a rough crust, acquire a yellow tint.

Methods of diagnosis

Oral thrush in adults can be treated by a dentist. Initially, it is necessary to conduct an examination, collect an anamnesis. The specialist will note what medications you took, whether there are diseases in a chronic form. Be sure to take an analysis of the plaque for research. Often, non-fungal elements can be confused with fungal ones.

It is important to properly prepare for sampling. Scraping is taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Do not brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with mouthwash before the procedure. The day before the test, it is worth reducing food with a large amount of carbohydrates. This will reduce the risk of developing pathogenic flora. Thanks to a qualitative study, you can not only establish whether the disease is really caused by the Candida fungus, but also find out how sensitive the flora is to certain medications. Depending on the results of this analysis, the specialist prescribes the appropriate therapy.

Features of treatment

The attending physicians prescribe local antifungal medicines as the basis for therapy. Today, there are many of them in the pharmaceutical segment, but the indicator of drug resistance of fungi also changes every year. Today, for example, Candida has almost complete resistance to Fluconazole, although earlier this drug was used most actively.

Depending on the clinical picture, it is important to select the treatment on an individual basis. The scheme can be influenced by the type of pathogen, personal characteristics, previously collected anamnesis.

It is mandatory to include topical medications in the treatment regimen as adjuvants. These include:

• mouth rinses;
• drug in the form of gels, suspensions;
• lozenges, special lozenges;
• irrigation solutions or sprays;
• ointment for topical application and tamponade.

The attending physician may prescribe specialized antiseptics, prescribe the use of saline solutions for irrigating the mouth. As a rule, among antiseptics, formulations with iodine, chlorhexidine, gentian violet are most often used. In some cases, the use of lozenges or lozenges works effectively.

Conditions for effective treatment

In order to effectively cure thrush, it is necessary to understand the cause of its occurrence. If the cause of the disease is poor oral hygiene, it is worth treating the gums, teeth, and eliminating caries. All these nuances can be considered as potential foci of inflammation. Therefore, having treated the entire dentition together with thrush, you can reduce the duration of treatment. It is also recommended to undergo a cleaning procedure from tartar – often it injures the mucous membrane with its sharp corners.

Given that removable dentures may be the cause, it is important to repeat the consultation with the patient, reminding him of hygiene procedures. If the period of use of the prosthesis comes to an end, it is worth replacing it. Otherwise, it will become a breeding ground for Candida.

Any crowns that have deteriorated must also be replaced. Repair any chips on the enamel surface. They can injure the gums and cause the spread of bacteria.

During treatment, smokers are advised to refrain from addiction. In the event that the disease was caused by taking corticosteroids, it is necessary to reconsider the treatment regimen. After using aerosols with the drug, it is important to rinse your mouth thoroughly with plenty of water.

When undergoing treatment, if the cause of the disease is taking antibiotics, it is necessary to add medicines to the therapy regimen to restore the balance of microflora. In this regard, the patient may need additional advice from a highly specialized specialist. The intake of probiotics and prebiotics is selected on an individual basis.

For all people undergoing therapy for thrush in the mouth, there is a list of recommendations:

• strictly follow all the rules of oral hygiene;
• limit intake of carbohydrate foods;
• give up sweets.

All food that is capable of irritating the mucous should be excluded from the patient’s diet. These are dishes that contain vinegar, a lot of spices and spices, smoked foods, fruits with high acidity. In addition, it is forbidden to consume yeast baked goods, sugar. The temperature of the food should be warm. Even after completing the course of therapy, it is necessary to follow such restrictions for about 2 months.

In some cases, your healthcare professional may recommend additional use of toothpastes with glucose oxidase or other ingredients. They form a protective mucosal barrier in the mouth. Also, such pastes are often included in preventive treatment. The paste is selected individually depending on the results of the analysis. In the same way, a toothbrush is selected.

Candidiasis prophylaxis

There is a specific Candida prophylaxis given to HIV-positive patients. The same prophylaxis is required when the patient is undergoing radiation therapy or a course of antibiotics. In the event that there are no such risk factors, the treating specialist will provide separate recommendations.

When carrying out prophylaxis for diabetics, patients with chronic lung diseases, it is important to control the course of the underlying disease. It is necessary to visit the attending physician in a timely manner and take a course of prescribed medications.

If it is impossible to do without antibiotics during the treatment of another disease, it is worth considering the main recommendations:

• antibiotic therapy should be prescribed exclusively by a doctor;
• the duration of the course is calculated by the attending specialist, you can not violate the regimen;
• If it is necessary to prescribe a longer course or repeat antibiotics, the patient should additionally be given appropriate antifungal therapy as a preventive measure.

If the patient also needs to treat bronchial asthma in the chronic stage, it is necessary to discuss with the attending physician the possibility of using a nebulizer.