What are the common symptoms of thrush in men and women. How is thrush diagnosed and treated. What causes thrush and how can it be prevented. What are the risks of recurring thrush. When should you see a doctor for thrush symptoms.

Understanding Thrush: A Common Yeast Infection

Thrush is a widespread yeast infection that affects both men and women. While it’s generally harmless, it can cause discomfort and may recur. Importantly, thrush is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), though sexual activity can sometimes trigger its development.

Recognizing Thrush Symptoms in Women and Men

Thrush manifests differently in women and men. Understanding these distinct symptoms is crucial for early identification and treatment.

Thrush Symptoms in Women

• White vaginal discharge, often resembling cottage cheese, typically odorless
• Itching and irritation around the vagina
• Soreness and stinging during sexual intercourse or urination

Thrush Symptoms in Men

• Irritation, burning sensation, and redness around the head of the penis and under the foreskin
• White discharge similar to cottage cheese
• Unpleasant odor
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin

Is thrush always symptomatic? Not necessarily. In some cases, thrush may present no symptoms at all, making regular check-ups important for those prone to yeast infections.

Thrush Beyond Genital Areas: Skin Manifestations

Thrush can affect various parts of the body, not just the genital area. Common sites include:

• Armpits
• Groin
• Between fingers

When thrush occurs in these areas, it typically causes a red, itchy, or painful rash that scales over with white or yellow discharge. It’s important to note that on darker skin, this rash may be less obvious, requiring closer inspection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Thrush

While thrush is often manageable with over-the-counter treatments, certain situations warrant a visit to a healthcare professional. You should consult a GP if:

• You’re experiencing thrush symptoms for the first time
• You’re under 16 or over 60 years old
• Thrush keeps recurring (more than 4 times in 12 months)
• Treatment hasn’t been effective
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have thrush and a weakened immune system (e.g., due to diabetes, HIV, or chemotherapy)

Can sexual health clinics help with thrush? Yes, if you suspect you have thrush, you may also seek assistance from a sexual health clinic.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Thrush

Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective thrush treatment. During a medical appointment, healthcare providers may:

• Ask about your symptoms
• Examine your vagina, penis, or affected skin area
• Take a swab of the discharge to test for other infections

How is thrush typically treated? The primary treatment for thrush involves antifungal medicine, which can be administered in various forms:

• Oral tablets
• Vaginal pessaries (tablets inserted into the vagina)
• Topical creams to relieve irritation

Thrush usually clears up within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment. It’s important to note that partners don’t need treatment unless they also show symptoms.

Dealing with Recurring Thrush

For individuals experiencing recurring thrush (more than 4 times in 12 months), extended treatment may be necessary. This could involve taking antifungal medication for up to 6 months. A GP can help identify potential causes, such as menstrual cycles or sexual activity, and recommend an appropriate treatment frequency.

Over-the-Counter Solutions: The Role of Pharmacists

Pharmacists can be a valuable resource for thrush treatment, especially for those who have previously been diagnosed. They can recommend suitable over-the-counter antifungal medications and provide advice on their use.

How often can you safely use over-the-counter thrush treatments? It’s advisable not to use antifungal medicine more than twice in 6 months without consulting a pharmacist or doctor.

Self-Care Measures for Thrush Management and Prevention

While medical treatment is often necessary, certain self-care practices can help manage thrush symptoms and prevent recurrence:

Do’s:

• Use water and emollient (like E45 cream) instead of soap to wash the affected area
• Dry thoroughly after washing
• Wear cotton underwear
• Avoid sexual intercourse until thrush has cleared if it causes discomfort

Don’ts:

• Use soaps or shower gels on affected areas
• Use douches or deodorants on the vagina or penis
• Wear tight underwear or tights

Are there any considerations for sexual activity during thrush treatment? Yes, it’s important to note that antifungal creams can damage condoms and diaphragms, potentially compromising contraceptive effectiveness.

Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors of Thrush

Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which is normally present in small amounts on the skin and mucous membranes. Several factors can disrupt the balance of bacteria and fungi, leading to thrush:

• Skin irritation or damage
• Antibiotic use
• Poorly controlled diabetes
• Weakened immune system (due to conditions like HIV or treatments like chemotherapy)
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Pregnancy

Does sexual activity cause thrush? While thrush isn’t classified as an STI, sexual activity can sometimes trigger its development by altering the vaginal environment or causing micro-abrasions that allow the fungus to proliferate.

Thrush in Special Populations: Pregnancy and Immunocompromised Individuals

Certain groups may be more susceptible to thrush or require special consideration in its treatment:

Thrush During Pregnancy

Pregnant women are more prone to developing thrush due to hormonal changes. While many antifungal treatments are safe during pregnancy, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

Thrush in Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience more severe or frequent thrush infections. These individuals often require more aggressive treatment and closer monitoring.

How does thrush management differ for these special populations? Treatment may involve longer courses of antifungal medication, more frequent follow-ups, and additional preventive measures.

The Impact of Lifestyle on Thrush Occurrence

Certain lifestyle factors can influence the likelihood of developing thrush:

• Diet: High sugar intake may promote yeast growth
• Clothing choices: Tight, synthetic materials can create a moist environment favorable for yeast
• Hygiene practices: Overwashing or using harsh products can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms
• Stress: High stress levels can weaken the immune system, making one more susceptible to infections

Can dietary changes help prevent thrush? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that probiotics and reducing sugar intake may help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms and potentially reduce thrush occurrences.

Thrush in Children and Infants

Thrush can affect individuals of all ages, including children and infants. In babies, it often appears as white patches on the tongue or inside the cheeks. Breastfeeding mothers may also develop thrush on their nipples, which can then be passed to the baby during feeding.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush in Infants

• White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or throat
• Redness or soreness in the affected areas
• Difficulty feeding or fussiness during feeding

How is thrush in infants treated? Treatment typically involves antifungal drops or gel applied directly to the affected areas. If a breastfeeding mother has thrush on her nipples, both mother and baby usually require treatment to prevent reinfection.

The Role of Probiotics in Thrush Prevention and Treatment

Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” may play a role in preventing and managing thrush by helping to maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body.

Potential Benefits of Probiotics for Thrush

• Restoring balance to the vaginal microbiome
• Enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight off fungal overgrowth
• Potentially reducing the recurrence of thrush infections

Are probiotics a proven treatment for thrush? While some studies show promising results, more research is needed to definitively establish the effectiveness of probiotics in treating or preventing thrush. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Thrush and Sexual Health: Addressing Common Concerns

While thrush isn’t classified as an STI, it can have implications for sexual health and relationships.

Common Questions About Thrush and Sexual Activity

• Can thrush be transmitted through sexual contact?
• Should sexual activity be avoided during a thrush infection?
• Can thrush affect fertility or pregnancy?

How does thrush impact sexual relationships? Open communication with partners about thrush is important. While thrush itself isn’t typically harmful, the discomfort it causes can affect intimacy. Temporary abstinence or alternative forms of intimacy may be advisable until the infection clears.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Thrush Treatment

The field of thrush research is continually evolving, with new studies exploring novel treatment approaches and prevention strategies.

Areas of Current Research

• Development of new antifungal medications with fewer side effects
• Exploration of natural remedies and their efficacy in treating thrush
• Investigation into the role of the microbiome in thrush susceptibility and treatment
• Studies on personalized treatment approaches based on individual risk factors and fungal strain identification

What promising developments are on the horizon for thrush treatment? Some researchers are exploring the potential of immunotherapy and targeted antifungal treatments that could provide more effective and personalized approaches to managing thrush infections.

Thrush in the Context of Overall Health and Wellness

While thrush is often viewed as an isolated condition, it’s important to consider it within the broader context of overall health and wellness. Factors that contribute to thrush susceptibility, such as a weakened immune system or hormonal imbalances, can be indicators of other health issues that may require attention.

Holistic Approaches to Thrush Management

• Stress reduction techniques
• Balanced nutrition to support immune function
• Regular exercise to promote overall health
• Adequate sleep and rest
• Maintaining good hygiene practices

How can a holistic approach benefit thrush management? By addressing overall health and wellness, individuals may be able to reduce their susceptibility to thrush and other infections, potentially leading to fewer recurrences and improved quality of life.

Navigating Thrush in Different Life Stages

The prevalence and management of thrush can vary across different life stages, each presenting unique challenges and considerations.

Thrush in Adolescents

Hormonal changes during puberty can increase susceptibility to thrush. Education about proper hygiene and recognizing symptoms is crucial during this stage.

Thrush in Adulthood

Adults may face thrush related to various factors such as stress, contraceptive use, or certain medical conditions. Management often involves a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Thrush in Older Adults

Older adults may be more prone to thrush due to weakened immune systems, medication use, or underlying health conditions. Special attention to oral hygiene and regular check-ups are important in this age group.

How do treatment approaches differ across these life stages? While the basic principles of thrush treatment remain similar, the specific approach may be tailored based on age-related factors, overall health status, and potential drug interactions with other medications commonly used in different life stages.

The Psychological Impact of Recurring Thrush

For individuals who experience frequent thrush infections, the condition can have significant psychological effects. These may include:

• Anxiety about potential recurrences
• Decreased self-esteem or body image issues
• Stress in intimate relationships
• Frustration with ongoing treatment needs

How can the psychological impact of thrush be addressed? Healthcare providers should be aware of these potential psychological effects and consider offering support or referrals for counseling when appropriate. Support groups or online communities for individuals with recurring thrush can also provide valuable emotional support and practical advice.

Thrush in the Workplace: Managing Symptoms and Disclosure

Dealing with thrush symptoms in a professional setting can be challenging. Considerations include:

• Managing discomfort while maintaining professionalism
• Deciding whether to disclose the condition to employers or colleagues
• Navigating time off for medical appointments or severe symptoms

What strategies can help manage thrush in the workplace? Some helpful approaches include:

• Wearing breathable, comfortable clothing
• Taking regular breaks to apply medication or change sanitary products if necessary
• Keeping over-the-counter treatments on hand for quick symptom relief
• Understanding workplace policies regarding medical leave and accommodations

While thrush is a common and typically manageable condition, its impact can extend beyond physical symptoms. By understanding the various aspects of thrush – from its causes and treatments to its psychological and social implications – individuals can be better equipped to manage the condition effectively and maintain their overall well-being.

Thrush in men and women

Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects men and women. It’s usually harmless but it can be uncomfortable and keep coming back. It is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Check if you have thrush

Thrush symptoms in women

• white vaginal discharge (often like cottage cheese), which does not usually smell
• itching and irritation around the vagina
• soreness and stinging during sex or when you pee

Thrush symptoms in men

• irritation, burning and redness around the head of the penis and under the foreskin
• a white discharge (like cottage cheese)
• an unpleasant smell
• difficulty pulling back the foreskin

Thrush in other areas

Thrush can affect other areas of skin, such as the armpits, groin and between the fingers.

This usually causes a red, itchy or painful rash that scales over with white or yellow discharge. The rash may not be so obvious on darker skin.

Sometimes thrush causes no symptoms at all.

See what thrush looks like on the vagina, penis and skin

Thrush on the penis

Credit:

SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/608488/view

Thrush in the vagina

Credit:

BIOPHOTO ASSOCIATES/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/295797/view

Thrush on the skin

Credit:

DermPics/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/616916/view

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

• you have the symptoms of thrush for the first time
• you’re under 16 or over 60
• thrush keeps coming back (more than 4 times in 12 months)
• treatment has not worked
• you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• you have thrush and a weakened immune system – for example, because of diabetes, HIV or chemotherapy

You may also be able to get help from a sexual health clinic if you think you have thrush.

What happens at your appointment

The GP will want to confirm it’s thrush and rule out other infections.

You’ll be asked about your symptoms.

If it’s not clear it’s thrush:

• a doctor or nurse may look at your vagina, penis or skin
• a cotton bud may be wiped over the discharge to test for other infections

Thrush treatment

You’ll usually need antifungal medicine to get rid of thrush. This can be a tablet you take, a tablet you insert into your vagina (pessary) or a cream to relieve the irritation.

Thrush should clear up within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment.

You do not need to treat partners unless they have symptoms.

Recurring thrush

You might need to take treatment for longer (for up to 6 months) if you keep getting thrush (you get it more than 4 times in 12 months).

A GP can help identify if something is causing your thrush, such as your period or sex.

They’ll recommend how often you should use treatment.

A pharmacist can help with thrush

You can buy antifungal medicine from pharmacies if you’ve had thrush diagnosed in the past and you know the symptoms.

A pharmacist can recommend the best treatment for you. Ask if they have a private area to talk if you’re embarrassed.

You should not use antifungal medicine more than twice in 6 months without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

Things you can do yourself to ease discomfort and prevent thrush returning

Do

• use water and emollient (like E45 cream) instead of soap to wash the affected area

• dry properly after washing

• wear cotton underwear

• avoid sex until thrush has cleared up if sex is uncomfortable

Don’t

• do not use soaps or shower gels

• do not use douches or deodorants on your vagina or penis

• do not wear tight underwear or tights

Important

If you have sex during treatment, be aware that antifungal creams can damage condoms and diaphragms. This means your contraception might not work.

What causes thrush

Thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sex.

Thrush is caused by a fungus called candida that is normally harmless.

Thrush tends to grow in warm, moist conditions and develops if the balance of bacteria changes.

This can happen if:

• your skin is irritated or damaged
• you’re taking antibiotics
• you have poorly controlled diabetes
• you have a weakened immune system (for example, because of HIV or chemotherapy)
• you’re having hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• you’re pregnant

Community content from HealthUnlocked

Page last reviewed: 27 October 2020
Next review due: 27 October 2023

9 Home Remedies for Thrush

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Oral thrush is treated with antifungal medication, but you can also ease uncomfortable symptoms with home remedies such as salt water, yogurt, clove oil, apple cider vinegar, and more.

Oral thrush, also called oral candidiasis, is a yeast infection of the mouth. It happens when there’s a buildup of the Candida albicans fungus in the lining of the mouth.

Oral thrush may occur in adults or children.

If you have oral thrush, you’ll need antifungal medication to clear the yeast. However, you may be able to help manage bothersome symptoms with home remedies, too.

Read on to learn how you can help treat the symptoms of this condition at home.

It’s important to treat oral thrush as soon as possible to contain the infection. Doctors often prescribe antifungal medications in the form of mouthwashes, pills, or lozenges.

Mild cases of oral thrush may go away on their own.

The following home remedies, used in addition to antifungal medications, may help relieve symptoms of the infection.

1. Salt water

Salt has antiseptic, cleansing, and soothing properties. This makes it a common home remedy for many oral problems.

Rinsing your mouth with salt water could help relieve symptoms of oral thrush.

To use:

1. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water.
2. Swish the solution throughout your mouth.
3. Spit out the salt solution.

2. Baking soda

Rinsing your mouth with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) may help treat oral thrush.

In a 2009 study, researchers looked at the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate as a disinfectant of Candida albicans adhered to acrylic resin. The test was meant to simulate the daily disinfecting of dentures.

Researchers concluded that, although not the most effective form of disinfectant, baking soda was a “viable alternative.”

To use:

1. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in 1 cup warm water.
2. Swish the rinse throughout your mouth.
3. Spit out the rinse.

3. Yogurt

Probiotic yogurt contains live, “good” bacteria cultures that may help treat oral thrush.

The cultures don’t kill Candida. Instead, they stop its growth. They may also help restore the proper balance of good to bad bacteria in the mouth.

Since it’s soft, yogurt is also a great food to eat if you’re having trouble swallowing due to painful mouth and throat lesions.

To use:

1. Eat yogurt a couple times daily at the first sign of oral thrush.
2. Choose unsweetened varieties of yogurt since Candida thrives on sugar.
3. If you don’t like yogurt, you can get the same benefits by taking a daily probiotic supplement.

4. Lemon juice

Lemon juice is thought to have antiseptic and antifungal abilities that help it fight against the fungus that causes thrush.

According to a small 2009 study, lemon juice was found to be a more effective treatment for oral thrush than gentian violet among people with HIV. (Gentian violet is another home remedy for oral thrush, but recent evidence shows it may cause cancer. ) Since the study was small, more research is needed.

To use:

1. Add the juice of half a lemon to 1 cup warm or cool water.
2. Drink the mixture, or use as a mouth rinse.

Some people apply lemon juice directly to thrush lesions, but the lemon’s acidity may cause burning and irritation.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric gets its vibrant yellow color from curcumin. Curcumin is a powerful compound thought to have anti-inflammatory abilities.

According to a 2010 study on mice, curcumin may treat oral thrush. The study found curcumin to be an antifungal against both albicans and non-albicans species of Candida, especially when combined with piperine.

Piperine is a compound found in black pepper that helps the body absorb turmeric. Further research is needed on humans.

To use:

1. Make “golden milk” by combining 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon turmeric paste (store-bought or homemade) with a dash of black pepper and 1 cup filtered water or milk of your choice.
2. Heat in a saucepan until warm.
3. Swish the mixture throughout your mouth as you drink it.

6. Clove oil

People have used clove oil as a folk remedy for oral problems for centuries. It’s still used in dentistry today as an antiseptic and pain reliever.

According to a 2005 in vivo and in vitro study on immunosuppressed rats, the main compound in clove oil (eugenol) was found to be as effective in treating oral thrush as the antifungal drug nystatin (Mycostatin).

Further research on humans is still needed, but it may work as a beneficial addition to treatment.

To use:

Take clove oil as a dietary supplement as directed by the manufacturer or your doctor. You can also make a clove mouth rinse:

1. Steep 1 teaspoon whole ground cloves in 1 cup boiling water for at least 5 minutes.
2. Strain the solution, keeping the liquid.
3. Swish the liquid around your mouth.
4. Spit out the solution.

Cloves may cause an allergic reaction or a numbing effect in the mouth in some people.

Buy clove oil here.

7. Oregano oil

Oregano oil is used to flavor foods, but it also has antimicrobial and antifungal abilities.

According to older research from 2001 conducted on mice and in vitro, oregano oil was effective against Candida albicans. Further research is needed.

To use:

1. Combine 2 drops oregano oil with 1 cup water.
2. Swish the mixture throughout your mouth.
3. Spit out the solution.

Never use undiluted oregano oil orally or topically.

Buy oregano oil here.

8. Apple cider vinegar

People with dentures have a higher risk of oral thrush. Dentures that don’t fit properly or that aren’t cleaned well provide the ideal environment for Candida to thrive. This may cause a condition similar to thrush called denture stomatitis.

According to a 2015 in vitro study, apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties against Candida and may be a good alternative treatment option for people with denture stomatitis.

To use:

1. Add 1 teaspoon raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to 1 cup water.
2. Swish the rinse throughout your mouth for at least 15 seconds.
3. Spit out the mixture.

Some natural health professionals recommend rinsing with undiluted apple cider vinegar, but this may cause a painful burning sensation in your mouth.

Buy apple cider vinegar here.

9. Vitamin C

Vitamin C (also called ascorbic acid) is necessary for proper immune system function. It does this by encouraging white blood cell production, which helps protect your body against infection.

It also helps these cells function more effectively and protects them against harmful molecules.

A healthy immune system helps bring balance back to your body. Increasing your intake of vitamin C if you’re deficient may help boost your body’s ability to beat the infection.

Oral thrush almost always causes symptoms, although they range in severity and duration.

Common symptoms are:

• raised white lesions that resemble cottage cheese on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, the roof of the mouth, and tonsils
• mouth redness or soreness
• mouth bleeding
• loss of taste
• feeling like your mouth is full of cotton
• difficulty eating and swallowing if lesions spread to your throat or esophagus

For most people, oral thrush isn’t a serious problem. If your immune system is compromised, however, it may spread and become a systemic infection.

Contact your doctor right away at the first signs of oral thrush if you have a compromised immune system.

Other conditions mimic oral thrush, such as oral hairy leukoplakia and lichen planus. See your doctor for a proper diagnosis before self-treating.

Since most home remedies have been researched on animals, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor before trying them.

Breastfed babies with oral thrush may transmit the infection to their mother’s breasts. If you’re breastfeeding and develop redness around your nipples or pain, see your doctor.

Many home remedies aren’t appropriate for infants and children. Talk with your pediatrician before using.

Home remedies for oral thrush may help relieve symptoms, but they won’t cure the yeast infection.

Home remedies are meant to support, not replace, antifungal medications that treat oral thrush. You may still need an antifungal to get rid of the Candida fungus entirely.

Once you’ve eliminated oral thrush, you can reduce your risk of getting it again by brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily. Replace your toothbrush to prevent reinfection.

To help prevent Candida yeast from taking up residence in your mouth or other areas of your body, follow these tips:

• Rinse your mouth after meals and each time you use a corticosteroid inhaler.
• Keep your dentures clean, and remove them every night.
• Treat dry mouth.
• If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar.
• If you’re pregnant, treat vaginal yeast infections promptly.
• If you smoke, consider quitting. Visit Smokefree.gov to create a quit plan that will work for you.

symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention

Contents of the article

1. Symptoms and signs of candidiasis
2. Causes of vaginal candidiasis
3. Routes of transmission of thrush
4. Risk factors for disease
5. Complications after thrush
6. When to see a doctor
7. Preparing for a doctor’s appointment
8. Diagnosis of thrush in women and men
9. Treatment and features
10. Home remedies, myths and misconceptions
11. Prophylaxis
12. How to make an appointment with a gynecologist or urologist

Thrush refers to urogenital diseases of a fungal nature. The second name is candidiasis. The causative agent is a fungus of the genus Candida. They affect the genitourinary system, but do not belong to sexually transmitted infections. Most often diagnosed in women, but men also have cases of infection with these opportunistic pathogens. Their habitat is the vagina, human intestines and skin. Under certain conditions, the fungal microflora begins to multiply and exceed the allowable amount, which leads to a diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with thrush are treated on an outpatient basis.

Symptoms and signs of candidiasis

Not everyone knows what thrush looks like in women at the onset of the disease. It is accompanied by a number of characteristic symptoms:

• severe itching in the intimate area;
• swelling of the vaginal mucosa;
• burning sensation during intercourse;
• Sour smell of white or yellowish cheesy discharge.

Signs of fungal candidiasis in men

Appeared thrush in men shows symptoms in the form of painful urination, swelling of the glans penis, redness and white plaque under the foreskin. Unpleasant sensations can intensify after intercourse, which should alert. In a state of calm, thrush in men is less pronounced.

Causes of vaginal candidiasis

The causes of thrush are associated with a decrease in immunity. The list of provoking factors also includes:

• taking oral contraceptives;
• taking antibiotics;
• pregnancy;
• violation of the microflora in the body;
• hygiene products with unsuitable Ph.

Ways of infection with thrush

Thrush during pregnancy appears due to changes in the hormonal background and the composition of the microflora. In other cases, in women, the risk of infection depends on the state of health. Thrush can also appear in men if there was unprotected intercourse with a Candida carrier. The fungal microflora is transmitted if hygiene is not observed (foreign towels, shared bedding). Pools and beaches are often places of infection. There may be signs of thrush after a kiss. Oral contact is a common route of infection because Candida can be found on any mucous membrane of the body.

Risk factors for disease

Risk factors depend on external exposure and health status. The chances of getting a diagnosis increase with frequent stress, hypothermia, the use of condoms, due to recent infectious diseases. Thrush often appears during pregnancy in women, which become a risk factor for men as well.

The list also includes the following items:

• diabetes mellitus;
• HIV infection;
• chemotherapy;
• beriberi;
• dysbacteriosis.

Complications after thrush

At first, thrush symptoms are less pronounced. Especially during menstruation, when the alkaline environment in the vagina changes. Then the thrush eliminates these causes and the regression of recovery begins. Without treatment, the disease will progress, provoking the development of complications:

• extensive reddening of the mucosa in the intimate area;
• sores and fissures;
• frequent relapses of candidiasis;
• infection of internal organs;
• outbreaks of inflammatory processes;
• weakening of the immune system;
• risk of infertility in women and sexual dysfunction in men.

When to see a doctor

If the occurrence of thrush in women or men is recorded, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor. Over-the-counter medications may not work as expected. In addition, before making a diagnosis, you need to take smears for laboratory analysis. According to the clinical picture, it is not always possible to determine the nature of mycosis: bacterial vaginosis, thrush or colpitis. Gynecologists of JSC “Medicina” (clinic of Academician Roitberg) in the center of Moscow are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. If you haven’t been exposed to Candida before, don’t self-medicate. Especially in the case of illness in children under the age of 12, with regular relapses and with an allergic reaction to ointments, suppositories. Any drugs for thrush are selected according to individual criteria.

Preparing for a doctor’s visit

Thrush in women causes and symptoms are almost the same, so you need to follow the general rules for preparing for the visit. It is recommended to come in the first days after the end of menstruation. Before visiting a gynecologist:

• don’t douche, just take a shower;
• refrain from sexual intercourse 2-3 days before taking;
• Do not take medication 2 weeks before your appointment.

Diagnosis of thrush in women and men

During the diagnosis, the clinical picture is taken into account. This is the patient’s well-being, discharge with thrush and the presence of a number of symptoms. At the appointment at JSC “Medicine” (clinic of Academician Roitberg) near the Mayakovskaya metro station, a gynecologist conducts an examination and takes tests to study the microflora. Thrush has different causes. Truth can only be found by inspection. And for this, men need to contact a urologist. The clinic has the necessary doctors, its own laboratory and equipment that allow you to quickly get the result and make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment and its features

Thrush in women is treated depending on the tests and the severity of the symptoms. If they are not very pronounced, topical medications will be prescribed: antifungal creams, vaginal suppositories, ointments. After that, preparations are used to restore microflora and probiotics. But chronic thrush requires a more systematic approach and antibiotic therapy. You also need to follow a diet. Sweets, store-bought juices, fatty foods, smoked meats, starchy foods, sweet fruits, pickles, and alcohol should be excluded from nutrition. It is worth knowing about the diet, how to treat thrush in women and maintain the microflora to stop relapses.

Home remedies, myths and misconceptions

Traditional medicine knows how to cure thrush at home. Douching, baths and tampons are used. The traditional way: dilute 1 tsp. soda in 1 liter of water. You need to douche 2 times a day. Decoctions of herbs are also suitable for this method: St. John’s wort, yarrow, chamomile, oak bark, knotweed, sage, juniper. A common myth is that there is no need to buy a cure for thrush. You can quickly and cheaply get by with folk remedies. No, that’s not possible. Treatment with herbs and lotions takes about 2-3 weeks. And not the fact that they will help. Thrush requires treatment without fail. It doesn’t go away on its own.

Prevention

Often, thrush in women appears due to the use of daily sanitary pads and wearing tight synthetic underwear. In order to prevent, it is worth abandoning these habits. Cotton underwear is the best choice. Avoid hypothermia at any time of the year, dress warmly. Do not use scented hygiene products, select the appropriate composition and Ph level. With symptoms of the disease, do not self-medicate, any candles and tablets for thrush should be prescribed by a doctor. Avoid stress and overwork, and do not abuse alcohol and sweets.

How to make an appointment with a gynecologist or urologist

You can make an appointment with the specialist you need online. To select an appointment date, you can also call the 24-hour available phone number +7 (495) 775-73-60. Thrush, although a common disease, requires competent treatment. The clinic operates in the Central District at the address: Moscow, 2nd Tverskoy-Yamskoy pereulok, 10, Mayakovskaya metro station. There are also metro stations nearby: Belorusskaya, Tverskaya, Novoslobodskaya and Chekhovskaya. Convenient location allows you to come to the clinic at any time and visit the consultation. For each person, thrush has individual symptoms and treatment, so make an appointment and diagnosis with experienced specialists at Medicine JSC (clinic of academician Roitberg).

Let’s cope with thrush without medicinal methods

In the press, on television, in outdoor advertising, advertisements of various drugs against an unpleasant fungal disease – thrush quite often appear. However, the expectant or nursing mother is afraid to take medications, although it is “in position” and after childbirth that the thrush attacks the female body especially aggressively. Are there other ways to deal with this disease?

Where do mushrooms come from?

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by the fact that candida fungi begin to multiply actively on the mucous membranes of a person. If a person is completely healthy, the presence of these fungi in the body does not cause concern – the immune system keeps them in check. However, during pregnancy, a heavy burden falls on the body, and the immune response can fail. This may be due to both hormonal processes and the fact that the immune system is weakened by the fight against a viral infection.

Symptoms of thrush are known to many: cheesy discharge, sometimes very abundant, which is often accompanied by itching and burning in the perineum. (It happens that fungi also affect other organs, such as the oral mucosa, and then you have to deal with the symptoms of stomatitis).

In addition to diseases and specific hormonal disorders of pregnant and lactating women, which are difficult to influence without the help of a doctor, the reasons for the increased growth of fungal colonies in the body can be ignorance, our bad habits, and sometimes even simple laziness. The first reason on this list is ill-conceived nutrition. Fungi have a “lip is not a fool” – most of all they love flour and sweets. That is, the features of immunity, metabolism and the functioning of the excretory system of a person who eats unhealthy food work for the fungus.

The second reason is lack of personal hygiene. The fungus loves moisture very much, and we often help it with this. How? Very simple! Beautiful synthetic underwear does not remove sweat from the body, does not allow secretions to dry quickly – and in such a “greenhouse” fungi multiply quickly. Disposable “everyday” pads that we wear, embarrassed by secretions and their smell, also interfere with air circulation and increase humidity. Particularly harmful are the air-tight pads that women use during critical days or with lochia after childbirth. After all, most of the pads that are actively advertised now do not “leave the skin dry and clean” at all, but turn the liquid into a gel and help fungi multiply and multiply.

The third reason is the notorious “chemistry”, all kinds of fragrances, detergents and preservatives. For example, the same pads quite often contain harmful substances with which the manufacturer flavored the pad. No less harmful to a weak mucosa can be panties that are poorly rinsed or washed with an inappropriate powder for you.

The fourth reason is the stagnation of blood in the small pelvis. A sedentary lifestyle, restrictions on sexual life and active movements that pregnancy and childbirth impose on a woman – all this leads to congestion in organs and tissues. And where the blood supply worsens, fungi live better there.

Is thrush dangerous?

Unfortunately, yes. Chronic thrush can conquer more and more expanses of your body and harm many organs, complicate breastfeeding, and the baby can become infected with it, passing through the birth canal.

How to be?

How to be, if it is impossible to put up with thrush, and one does not raise one’s hand to “poison” oneself with potent medicines? It is best to spend energy on the prevention and treatment of thrush in the early stages, in order to prevent a severe form when you can’t think of anything else.

Purchase cotton underwear (preferably white), wash it to get rid of the “chemistry” that inevitably resides in the fabric and wear without pads unless critical days require it. If necessary, change the linen more than once a day, wash it in a machine with a boiling mode and a minimum of detergent – it is best to use special eco-powders and gels or children’s washing powder. In the rinse cycle, run the machine twice. At home, if possible, go without underwear in a skirt or bathrobe, for better air circulation.

Use cellulose pads on critical days. There are cheap domestic ones, there are more expensive imported ones. The main thing is to change them as often as possible. Adjust your nutrition. Minimize “empty” carbohydrates, foods that contain a lot of sugar, yeast, or ferment when cooked (beer, wine, muffins, desserts, etc.). Beware of old cheese, raw mushrooms, chocolate, dried fruits, honey, nut pastes, pickles and marinades, potatoes, soy sauce, vinegar. Reduce milk intake – leave only low-fat sour-milk products.

Drink green tea 3-4 times a day – this can help cleanse the body of excess yeast. There should be more vegetables and fruits on your table. Eat fish, gluten-free grains (brown rice, millet, buckwheat), avoid foods containing gluten (wheat, rye, barley, semolina and pasta, oats). Consume dietary supplements that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

If the desired balance in the body has already been disturbed, you can, after consulting with your doctor, try to help yourself with long-known home remedies. The most famous of these is douching with apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons per liter of water, 2-4 times a day). At night, you can also put “garlic candles” (a clove of garlic is peeled from the upper rough shell, so as not to damage the clove itself, and is placed in the vagina). The effect is noticeable after 3 days. It is also useful to make baths for the perineum: with a decoction of oak bark, calendula, yarrow, rosemary (3 tablespoons of a decoction according to a standard recipe for each liter of water, sit in a warm bath for 15-20 minutes). Take inside bifidobacteria and put tampons with them, as well as treatment of concomitant viral infection.

For breastfeeding mothers

A symptom of thrush in a breastfeeding mother can be severe burning pain on the surface of the nipples or deep inside the breast. Unlike the pain of nipple cracks and mastitis, which gradually subsides while the baby suckles, this pain lasts throughout the feeding, continues immediately after it, and sometimes persists between feedings. Sometimes a sharp, shooting pain radiates from the nipple to the chest, back, or arm. All this is accompanied by increased sensitivity of the nipples, itching. If you are sure that the cause of the pain is not improper attachment or lactostasis, and you do not suffer from eczema, herpes or psoriasis, then it is most likely that you have thrush. Tests will help to confirm the diagnosis.

Warning: You don’t have to stop breastfeeding at all. To treat thrush in a child’s mouth, your doctor may prescribe special antifungal drops.