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Yeast fungal infection. Understanding Vaginal Yeast Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

by alexxlab

What are the common symptoms of vaginal yeast infections. How can you prevent and treat vaginal candidiasis. What factors increase the risk of developing a yeast infection. When should you seek medical attention for vaginal discomfort.

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What Is Vaginal Candidiasis and Why Does It Occur?

Vaginal candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, typically Candida albicans. This condition occurs when the delicate balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disrupted, allowing Candida to proliferate excessively.

Candida naturally resides in various parts of the body, including the vagina, without causing issues. However, certain factors can alter the vaginal environment, promoting fungal growth and leading to infection. These factors may include:

  • Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy or menstruation
  • Use of antibiotics, which can eliminate beneficial bacteria
  • Weakened immune system
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Use of hormonal contraceptives
  • Tight, non-breathable clothing

Understanding these triggers can help in prevention and early intervention of vaginal yeast infections.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infections

Identifying the symptoms of vaginal candidiasis is crucial for timely treatment. Common signs include:

  • Intense itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
  • Burning sensation, especially during urination or intercourse
  • Redness and swelling of the vulva
  • Vaginal pain and soreness
  • Thick, white, odorless discharge with a cottage cheese-like consistency
  • Watery vaginal discharge

Can symptoms vary in severity? Yes, the intensity of symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and inflammation. In some cases, women may experience redness, swelling, and even cracks in the vaginal wall.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While mild yeast infections may resolve on their own, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if:

  1. Symptoms persist for more than a week
  2. You experience recurrent infections (4 or more in a year)
  3. You’re pregnant
  4. You have severe symptoms or pelvic pain
  5. You’re unsure if it’s a yeast infection

Professional diagnosis can rule out other conditions and ensure appropriate treatment.

Diagnostic Methods for Vaginal Candidiasis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of vaginal yeast infections. Healthcare providers typically employ the following methods:

  • Physical examination: Visual inspection of the vaginal area
  • Microscopic examination: Analysis of a vaginal discharge sample
  • Fungal culture: In cases of recurrent or resistant infections
  • pH testing: To differentiate yeast infections from other vaginal conditions

Is a positive fungal culture always indicative of an infection? Not necessarily. Some women may have Candida present in their vagina without experiencing symptoms, a condition known as asymptomatic colonization.

Effective Treatment Options for Vaginal Yeast Infections

Treatment for vaginal candidiasis typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and frequency of infections:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

  • Miconazole (Monistat)
  • Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin)
  • Tioconazole (Vagistat)

These medications are available as creams, suppositories, or tablets for vaginal insertion.

Prescription Treatments

  • Fluconazole (Diflucan): Oral antifungal medication
  • Terconazole: Vaginal cream or suppository
  • Boric acid suppositories: For recurrent infections

How long does treatment typically last? Most treatments range from 1 to 7 days, depending on the medication and severity of the infection. It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before it’s finished.

Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infections: Practical Strategies

While it’s not always possible to prevent yeast infections, certain practices can reduce the risk:

  • Wear breathable, cotton underwear
  • Avoid tight-fitting clothes and pantyhose
  • Change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes promptly
  • Avoid douching and scented feminine hygiene products
  • Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
  • Maintain good blood sugar control if diabetic
  • Use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed

Can dietary changes help prevent yeast infections? Some studies suggest that consuming probiotics and reducing sugar intake may help maintain vaginal health, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Understanding the Link Between Antibiotics and Yeast Infections

Antibiotic use is a common trigger for vaginal yeast infections. Here’s why:

  • Antibiotics eliminate harmful bacteria but also beneficial ones
  • This disruption can allow Candida to overgrow
  • The risk is higher with broad-spectrum antibiotics

To minimize this risk:

  1. Only take antibiotics when prescribed and necessary
  2. Complete the full course as directed
  3. Consider taking probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment
  4. Be vigilant for signs of yeast infection during and after antibiotic use

Does every course of antibiotics lead to a yeast infection? No, not everyone who takes antibiotics will develop a yeast infection, but it does increase the risk.

Recurrent Yeast Infections: Causes and Management

Recurrent yeast infections, defined as four or more episodes within a year, affect about 5% of women. Possible causes include:

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Compromised immune system
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Resistant Candida strains

Management strategies for recurrent infections may include:

  1. Long-term suppressive antifungal therapy
  2. Boric acid suppositories
  3. Probiotic supplements
  4. Dietary modifications
  5. Addressing underlying health conditions

Is it possible to develop resistance to antifungal medications? Yes, in some cases, Candida can become resistant to common antifungal treatments, necessitating alternative therapies or combination treatments.

Yeast Infections During Pregnancy: Special Considerations

Pregnant women are more susceptible to yeast infections due to hormonal changes. Key points to consider:

  • Yeast infections are common during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester
  • They don’t typically harm the fetus but can cause discomfort for the mother
  • Some over-the-counter treatments may not be safe during pregnancy
  • Always consult a healthcare provider before using any treatment

Safe treatment options during pregnancy may include:

  1. Topical azole antifungals (e.g., miconazole, clotrimazole)
  2. Longer treatment durations may be necessary
  3. Oral fluconazole is generally avoided, especially in the first trimester

Can untreated yeast infections affect pregnancy outcomes? While yeast infections don’t directly harm the fetus, severe infections may increase the risk of preterm labor or transmission to the baby during delivery. Prompt treatment is important.

The Role of Sexual Activity in Yeast Infections

While yeast infections are not typically classified as sexually transmitted infections, sexual activity can play a role:

  • Friction during intercourse can cause micro-abrasions, potentially increasing infection risk
  • Some lubricants or spermicides may alter vaginal pH
  • Male partners can sometimes carry yeast without symptoms

Recommendations for sexual activity during and after a yeast infection:

  1. Avoid sexual intercourse until symptoms resolve
  2. Use condoms to reduce the risk of transmission
  3. Consider treating sexual partners if infections are recurrent
  4. Practice good hygiene before and after sexual activity

Can men get yeast infections? Yes, men can develop genital yeast infections, although it’s less common. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or a rash on the penis.

Differentiating Yeast Infections from Other Vaginal Conditions

Yeast infection symptoms can be similar to other vaginal conditions, making accurate diagnosis crucial. Common conditions that may mimic yeast infections include:

  • Bacterial vaginosis
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea)
  • Allergic reactions or irritation from products

Key differences to note:

  1. Bacterial vaginosis typically causes a fishy odor, which is absent in yeast infections
  2. Trichomoniasis often produces a greenish-yellow, frothy discharge
  3. STIs may cause additional symptoms like pelvic pain or fever
  4. Allergic reactions usually resolve when the irritant is removed

Why is proper diagnosis important? Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment and potentially allow underlying conditions to worsen. Always consult a healthcare provider for persistent or unusual symptoms.

The Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Vaginal Health

Various lifestyle factors can influence vaginal health and the risk of yeast infections:

  • Diet: High sugar intake may promote yeast growth
  • Stress: Can weaken the immune system, making infections more likely
  • Sleep: Adequate rest supports overall immune function
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity may help maintain vaginal pH balance
  • Clothing choices: Tight, non-breathable fabrics can create a favorable environment for yeast

Lifestyle modifications that may help prevent yeast infections:

  1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in probiotics
  2. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
  3. Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night for adults)
  4. Engage in regular physical activity
  5. Choose breathable, cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing

Can certain foods prevent or treat yeast infections? While some people advocate for dietary changes like consuming yogurt or garlic, scientific evidence supporting these methods is limited. A balanced diet supporting overall health is generally recommended.

Yeast Infections in Special Populations

Certain groups may be at higher risk for yeast infections or require special considerations:

Postmenopausal Women

  • Decreased estrogen levels can alter vaginal pH
  • May experience vaginal dryness, increasing infection risk
  • Topical estrogen therapy may be recommended in some cases

Women with Diabetes

  • Higher blood sugar levels can promote yeast growth
  • May experience more frequent or severe infections
  • Proper blood sugar control is essential for prevention

Immunocompromised Individuals

  • Higher risk of severe or recurring infections
  • May require longer treatment courses or prophylactic therapy
  • Close monitoring by healthcare providers is crucial

How does menopause affect yeast infection risk? The hormonal changes during menopause can alter the vaginal environment, potentially increasing susceptibility to yeast infections. However, proper hygiene and hormone management can help mitigate this risk.

The Future of Yeast Infection Treatment and Prevention

Research in vaginal health and yeast infections continues to evolve. Emerging areas of interest include:

  • Development of new antifungal agents
  • Exploration of probiotic therapies
  • Investigation of the vaginal microbiome’s role in health and disease
  • Personalized treatment approaches based on individual factors

Potential future developments:

  1. More effective over-the-counter treatments
  2. Improved diagnostic tools for rapid, accurate testing
  3. Novel preventive strategies targeting the vaginal microbiome
  4. Better understanding of recurrent infections and targeted therapies

What role might personalized medicine play in treating yeast infections? As our understanding of individual genetic and microbiome factors grows, treatments may be tailored to each person’s unique vaginal environment and risk factors, potentially improving outcomes and reducing recurrence rates.

In conclusion, vaginal yeast infections are common but manageable conditions that affect many women. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and implementing preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage their vaginal health. When in doubt, always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. As research continues, we can look forward to improved strategies for preventing and treating these infections, enhancing women’s overall well-being.

Vaginal Candidiasis | Fungal Diseases

About

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast (a type of fungus) called Candida. Candida normally lives on skin and inside the body such as in the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems. Candida can cause an infection if conditions change inside the vagina to encourage its growth. Things like hormones, medicines, or changes in the immune system can make infection more likely. The common term for candidiasis in the vagina is a vaginal yeast infection. Other names for this infection are vaginal candidiasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, or candidal vaginitis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vaginal candidiasis include:1,2

  • Vaginal itching or soreness
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Pain or discomfort when urinating
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge

Vaginal candidiasis is often mild. However, some women can develop severe infections involving redness, swelling, and cracks in the wall of the vagina.

Contact your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms. These symptoms are similar to those of other types of vaginal infections. A healthcare provider can tell you if you have vaginal candidiasis and how to treat it.

Risk & Prevention

Who gets vaginal candidiasis?

Vaginal candidiasis is common. Women who are more likely to get vaginal candidiasis include those who:

  • Are pregnant
  • Use hormonal contraceptives (for example, birth control pills)
  • Have diabetes
  • Have a weakened immune system (for example, due to HIV infection or medicines such as steroids and chemotherapy)
  • Are taking or have recently taken antibiotics
How can I prevent vaginal candidiasis?

Wearing cotton underwear might help reduce the chances of getting a yeast infection.2 Because taking antibiotics can lead to vaginal candidiasis, take these medicines only when prescribed and exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. Learn more about when antibiotics work and when you do not need them.

Sources

Scientists estimate that about 20% of women normally have Candida in the vagina without having any symptoms.2Candida can cause an infection if the conditions change inside the vagina to encourage its growth. Infection can happen because of hormones, medicines, or changes in the immune system.

Diagnosis & Testing

Healthcare providers usually diagnose vaginal candidiasis by taking a small sample of vaginal discharge. They examine the sample under a microscope in the medical office or send it to a laboratory for a fungal culture. However, a positive fungal culture does not always mean that Candida is causing symptoms. Some women can have Candida in the vagina without having any symptoms.

Treatment

If you have vaginal candidiasis, likely you will use antifungal medicine to treat it.3 Often, the treatment is an antifungal medicine applied inside the vagina or a single dose of fluconazole taken by mouth. You may need other treatments if your infection is:

  • Is more severe
  • Doesn’t get better
  • Keeps coming back after getting better

These treatments include:

  • More doses of fluconazole taken by mouth
  • Other medicines applied inside the vagina, such as boric acid, nystatin, or flucytosine

If you are a healthcare provider, please refer to:

  • The Infectious Diseases Society of America’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Candidiasis
  • CDC – 2021 Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines: Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Statistics

Vaginal candidiasis is common. In the United States, it is the second most common type of vaginal infection after bacterial vaginal infections.2 An estimated 1.4 million outpatient visits for vaginal candidiasis occur annually.4 The number of vaginal candidiasis cases is unknown.

  • CDC – 2021 Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines: Vulvovaginal Candidiasis
  1. Gonçalves B, Ferreira C, Alves CT, Henriques M, Azeredo J, Silva S. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: epidemiology, microbiology and risk factors. Criti Rev Microbiol 2016;42:905-27.
  2. Sobel JD. Vulvovaginal candidosis. Lancet 2007;369:1961-71.
  3. Pappas PG, Kauffman CA, Andes DR, Clark CJ, Marr KA, Ostrosky-Zeichner L, et al. Clinical practice guideline for the management of candidiasis: 2016 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis 2016;62:e1-50.
  4. Benedict K, Jackson BR, Chiller T, Beer KD. Estimation of direct healthcare costs of fungal diseases in the United States. Clin Infect Dis. 2018 Sep 10.

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Candida infections of the mouth, throat, and esophagus | Fungal Diseases

About

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast (a type of fungus) called Candida. Candida normally lives on the skin and inside the body, in places such as the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems.1 Sometimes, Candida can multiply and cause an infection if the environment inside the mouth, throat, or esophagus changes in a way that encourages fungal growth.

Candidiasis in the mouth and throat is also called thrush or oropharyngeal candidiasis. Candidiasis in the esophagus (the tube that connects the throat to the stomach) is called esophageal candidiasis or Candida esophagitis. Esophageal candidiasis is one of the most common infections in people living with HIV/AIDS.2

Symptoms

Candidiasis in the mouth and throat can have many different symptoms, including:

  • White patches on the inner cheeks, tongue, roof of the mouth, and throat (photo showing candidiasis in the mouth)
  • Redness or soreness
  • Cotton-like feeling in the mouth
  • Loss of taste
  • Pain while eating or swallowing
  • Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth

Symptoms of candidiasis in the esophagus usually include pain when swallowing and difficulty swallowing.

Contact your healthcare provider if you have symptoms that you think are related to candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.

Risk and Prevention

Who gets candidiasis in the mouth or throat?

Candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus is uncommon in healthy adults. People who are at higher risk for getting candidiasis in the mouth and throat include babies, especially those younger than 1 month of age, and people with at least one of these factors:3-7

  • Wear dentures
  • Have diabetes
  • Have cancer
  • Have HIV/AIDS
  • Take antibiotics or corticosteroids, including inhaled corticosteroids for conditions like asthma
  • Take medications that cause dry mouth or have medical conditions that cause dry mouth
  • Smoke

Most people who get candidiasis in the esophagus have weakened immune systems, meaning that their bodies don’t fight infections well. This includes people living with HIV/AIDS and people who have blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma. People who get candidiasis in the esophagus often also have candidiasis in the mouth and throat.

How can I prevent candidiasis in the mouth or throat?

Ways to help prevent candidiasis in the mouth and throat include:

  • Maintain good oral health
  • Rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after using inhaled corticosteroids

Sources

Candida normally lives in the mouth, throat, and the rest of the digestive tract without causing any problems. Sometimes, Candida can multiply and cause an infection if the environment inside the mouth, throat, or esophagus changes in a way that encourages its growth.

This can happen when:

  • a person’s immune system becomes weakened,
  • if antibiotics affect the natural balance of microbes in the body,
  • or for a variety of other reasons in other groups of people.

Diagnosis and Testing

Healthcare providers can usually diagnose candidiasis in the mouth or throat simply by looking inside.8 Sometimes a healthcare provider will take a small sample from the mouth or throat. The sample is sent to a laboratory for testing, usually to be examined under a microscope.

Healthcare providers usually diagnose candidiasis in the esophagus by doing an endoscopy. An endoscopy is a procedure to examine the digestive tract using a tube with a light and a camera. A healthcare provider might prescribe antifungal medicine without doing an endoscopy to see if the patient’s symptoms get better.

Treatment

Candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus is usually treated with antifungal medicine.6 The treatment for mild to moderate infections in the mouth or throat is usually an antifungal medicine applied to the inside of the mouth for 7 to 14 days. These medications include clotrimazole, miconazole, or nystatin. For severe infections, the most common treatment is fluconazole (an antifungal medication) taken by mouth or through a vein. If patient does not get better after taking fluconazole, healthcare providers may prescribe a different antifungal. The treatment for candidiasis in the esophagus is usually fluconazole. Other types of prescription antifungal medicines can also be used for people who can’t take fluconazole or who don’t get better after taking fluconazole.

If you are a healthcare provider, click here to see the Infectious Diseases Society of America’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of CandidiasisExternalexternal icon.

Statistics

The exact number of cases of candidiasis in the mouth, throat, and esophagus in the United States is difficult to determine. This is because there is no national surveillance for these infections. The risk of these infections varies based on the presence of certain underlying medical conditions. For example, candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus is uncommon in healthy adults. However, they are some of the most common infections in people living with HIV/AIDS.2 In one study, about one-third of patients with advanced HIV infection had candidiasis in the mouth and throat. 9

Yeast infections: diseases, treatments and preparations

Where can I buy?

Encyclopedia

Fungus

Skin and/or mucous membrane lesions caused by yeast fungi are called yeast infections.

The author of the article

Moshkova Elena Mikhailovna

Dermatovenereologist, head of the CDO for the provision of paid services, St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution of Health “City Dermatovenerologic Dispensary”, St. Petersburg.

What yeast-like fungi cause disease in humans

Human skin normally inhabits both bacteria and fungal microorganisms. In small quantities, they are part of the normal microflora of the skin. Yeasts and yeast-like fungi can also live on the skin without causing any skin disease. However, if adverse factors occur (decreased immunity, impaired microflora), fungi begin to actively multiply, their number increases and leads to the development of the disease.

How is skin fungus treated? Watch in a two-minute video with Doctor of Medicine, Professor of the Russian Academy of Sciences Olga Borisovna Tamrazova

Fungi of the genus Malassezia

Yeast-like fungi of the genus Malassezia – the cause of skin dermatosis: seborrheic dermatitis and versicolor (pityriasis) versicolor 90 026 . Approximately 20% of people experience occasional cases of seborrheic dermatitis. And 10% of the population suffers from versicolor (pityriasis) versicolor 3 .

Fungi of the genus Candida

Yeast fungi of the genus Candida – causative agents of candidiasis of the skin, mucous membranes and internal organs. Fungi of the genus Candida are conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, for the existence of which the presence of oxygen in the environment is an optional condition. This explains the possibility of candidiasis of internal organs.

Up to 30-50% of the population carry Candida on their skin. This type of fungus can colonize the mucous membrane of the mouth, intestines, and the genitourinary system.

How fungi of the genus Candida affect human health

Cause itching and dry skin

Provoke the appearance of a white coating on the tongue and bad breath

Contribute to the occurrence of vaginal candidiasis

Affect the feet

900 02 Of the 150 existing species of Candida, 20 species are the causative agents of candidiasis. Most often, Candida albicans, C.tropicalis, C.parapsilosis, C.glabrata 1 are found in patients.

Skin may show C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. guillermondii, C. kefyr 1 . However, skin candidiasis usually develops due to the presence of Candida albicans , other types of Candida cause skin lesions much less 1 .

The cause of candidiasis of the genitourinary system in almost 90% of people is C. albicans, in 10% – C. krusei, C. glabrata and others 1 .

Sites of localization of yeast infections. Symptoms

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis most often occurs on the face and scalp. But the process can be widespread and localized in other seborrheic areas of the body (skin of the back, chest). Rashes are represented by pink spots with peeling on the surface. Sometimes the inflammation is so severe that itching and excessive moisture of the skin (weeping) appear. Often the only manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis is dandruff.

Pityriasis versicolor (pityriasis)

With versicolor versicolor, there is no skin inflammation, so patients are only concerned about the aesthetic component of dermatosis. Spots up to 1 cm usually appear on parts of the body with excessive sweating. The color of the rashes can vary from beige to pink, over time the spots merge into large foci.

Candidiasis of the skin and oral mucosa

Candidiasis of the skin often occurs in the interdigital, axillary, inguinal folds, on the skin under the mammary glands, the fold of the abdomen.

Large fold candidiasis

Large fold candidiasis Doctors also call Candida intertrigo 2 . At the bottom of the fold, small bubbles appear, which open up, exposing bright pink with a bluish tinge of skin erosion. Over time, defects in the upper layer of the skin increase in size, merge and can completely spread to the entire surface of a large fold. The erosive surface is wet with a lacquer sheen. A whitish coating may be present. On the periphery of candidal foci, screenings can be found – islands of skin with small vesicles, pustules or small erosions.

Candidiasis of the interdigital folds of the hands often occurs in housewives, catering workers. The predisposing factor is constant contact with water. Often only one interdigital fold on the “working” hand is affected. There is redness, itching, there may be cracks.

Smooth skin candidiasis

Smooth skin candidiasis is more often a complication of an underlying dermatological disease, such as atopic dermatitis or due to the spread of a fungal infection from the skin of large folds.

Candidiasis of the nail folds and nails

Redness, swelling, pain appear at the site of the fungus penetration into the skin of the periungual fold. When pressing on the periungual roller, there are no purulent compartments, in contrast to inflammation of a bacterial nature. And brownish transverse grooves appear on the nail plate, the nail thickens, loses its luster.

Urogenital candidiasis

This disease does not apply to sexually transmitted infections 2 .

In men, candidal balanitis, balanoposthitis and urethritis are more common.

Men report the following symptoms: 3

  • Redness, whitish coating, swelling, itching, burning in the area of ​​the glans penis
  • Painful urination and intercourse

See how thrush is treated in a short video by Professor, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Evgenia Valerievna Shikh

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (thrush) occurs in women – Candida fungi damage the mucous membrane of the external genitalia and vagina.

More than 70% of women have had an episode of urogenital candidiasis at least once in their lives. And 15% of them had repeated episodes of this disease 3 .

Women note: 3

  • White curdled discharge from the genital tract
  • Itching, burning
  • Painful urination and intercourse

Predisposing factors for yeast infections

Predisposing factors for yeast infections: 3

  • Long-term antibiotic therapy
  • Taking anticancer drugs (cytostatics)
  • Uncompensated diabetes mellitus
  • Immunodeficiency
  • Hormonal disorders

Predisposing factors for skin candidiasis include: prolonged contact with water, skin abrasions, excess weight. For the development of oral candidiasis – traumatization of the mucous membrane, for example, when wearing dentures, braces.

Diagnosis of yeast infections

Diagnosis of skin candidiasis is based on the clinical picture of the disease. The doctor may additionally prescribe a skin scraping test for the presence of Candida fungi.

In the diagnosis of urogenital candidiasis, microscopic and cultural methods with the determination of the type of fungus of the genus Candida and its sensitivity to antifungal drugs are of great importance 3 . And with the help of special test systems, you can detect DNA fragments of the causative agent of urogenital candidiasis.

Diagnosis of diseases caused by fungi of the genus Malassezia is based on the examination of skin manifestations, dermatoscopy, the study of skin scrapings for fungi, the definition of the Benier phenomenon (peeling of the rash when scraped with a fingernail or spatula) and the Balzer test (5% alcohol solution of iodine is applied to the affected area with the capture of healthy skin. Increased staining of the rash compared to areas of healthy skin indicates the presence of fungi of the genus Malassezia).

Treatment of yeast infections

Treatment of candidiasis of the skin consists of:

1) Use of topical antifungals in the form of cream/ointment, solution, spray

2) Eliminate the source of the pathogen in the intestines or genitourinary tract, this is prescribed antifungal drugs for oral administration

9 0002 3) Elimination or correction of provoking factors

Treatment of urogenital candidiasis consists of:

1) Prescription of antifungal drugs for oral and local use0003

2) Prescription of anti-allergic drugs

3) Vitamin therapy

(In some cases, immunomodulatory drugs are recommended)

, creams, ointments), and for oral administration (tablets, capsules). Most often, it is possible to solve the problem with external antifungal agents. However, with widespread rashes, severe persistent course, drugs are prescribed for oral administration

The use of antiseptic or antibacterial drugs when a bacterial infection attaches to weeping areas of the skin antifungal medicines: sertaconazole, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, terbinafine. For example, appointment Zalain ® cream 2% (sertaconazole) promotes recovery better than other drugs (versus clotrimazole) 5 .

Sertaconazole-based cream (Zalain®) for yeast infections

Sertaconazole-based products (Zalain ® ) are available in the form of suppositories and cream.

When Zalain ® cream is used topically for two weeks, the components of the drug are not detected in the blood and urine, which indicates a high safety profile of the drug 7 .

Sertaconazole has a triple action: it prevents the growth and reproduction of fungi, promotes their death, and also prevents the transition of fungi from a passive form to a pathogenic one (only for fungi of the genus Candida) 15 .

Instruction

Zalain ® Yeast Infection Cream

How to use Zalain Cream ®

In case of skin candidiasis, seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis versicolor Zalain ® cream is applied 2 times a day in a thin layer covering healthy skin for 2-4 weeks 6 .

Topical and systemic antifungal therapy may be indicated for the treatment of urogenital candidiasis.

Urogenital candidiasis in men can be treated externally:

  • Zalain ® cream is applied 2 times a day in a thin layer for 14 days 6 .

Has a triple effect: antifungal, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory

Used 1-2 times a day

Where to buy Zalain ® Cream for the treatment of yeast infections

or

Find the nearest pharmacy

Zalain ® Suppositories

Sertaconazole cream (Zalain ® ) for the treatment of fungal infections

Vaginal candidiasis (thrush) in women is treated by insertion of vaginas al tablets or suppositories (suppositories).

Doctors also recommend vaginal suppositories based on sertaconazole (Zalain ® ). One suppository is inserted into the vagina 1 time. The use of 1 vaginal suppository is explained by the fact that sertaconazole has a high lipophilicity – it dissolves well in lipid (fat) cell structures. Due to this, the drug remains in the vaginal mucosa for a long time (7 days) at a therapeutic concentration, having a triple mechanism of action on Candida fungi. For women, this prescription of the drug is very convenient.

Unlike other drugs for the treatment of urogenital candidiasis, the effect of Zalain ® suppositories is observed with a single application of 7 . If necessary (maintenance of clinical symptoms), treatment can be repeated after 1 week 7 . The doctor may recommend Zalain ® suppositories to pregnant women if necessary.

The use of specially adapted intimate hygiene gels helps maintain a healthy microflora of the vulva and resist infections.

Only 1 suppository per course

Local effect of the drug

Absorption of sertaconazole into the bloodstream does not occur 13

Can be used during pregnancy and lactation*

Where to buy Zalain ® Candles

Instruction

Why is 1 candle valid for 7 days?

Zalagel ® Intim

Antiseptic properties of components Zalagel ® Intim

Zalagel ® Intim gel-soap, gently cleanses the skin of the intimate area, has a calming effect ohm and helps to reduce the feeling of discomfort.

U Zalagel ® Intim Slightly alkaline pH (8-9), creating a destructive environment for fungi of the genus Candida (causative agents of thrush). The betaine component, which is part of the gel, prevents dryness of the intimate area, maintains the physiological balance of the skin and mucous membranes.

Gently cleanses the intimate area

Creates a destructive environment for fungi of the Candida genus

Protects the female genital organs from infections

Tea tree oil in the composition of the product has an antibacterial and antiviral effect

Reduces itching and irritation 9000 3

Where to buy Zalagel ® Intim

or

Find the nearest pharmacy

Instruction

Answers to questions

How to understand that thrush has become chronic?

Answer: Four or more episodes of thrush per year are in favor of chronic recurrent urogenital candidiasis.

How long does the treatment for versicolor take?

Answer: Treatment of multicolored lichen, as a rule, consists in prescribing external antifungal therapy. The duration of treatment is selected individually and usually lasts at least 2 weeks.

Is it possible to wet the skin with candidiasis of the folds?

Answer: In the acute period of the disease until the stabilization of the skin process, it is necessary to limit contact with water.

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Sources

  1. Russian clinical guidelines.
  2. Textbook “Skin and venereal diseases” edited by O.L. Ivanov., 2010.
  3. National Guide to Dermatovenereology edited by prof. Yu.S. Butova, acad. RAMS Yu. K. Skripkina, prof. O.L. Ivanov.
  4. Clinical guidelines of the Russian Federation, Urogenital candidiasis 2019
  5. Efficacy and safety study of Zalain® 2% cream in the treatment of skin mycoses. IG Sergeeva, Yu. M. Krinitsyna Novosibirsk State University.
  6. Register of Medicines of Russia, official instructions for the active substance Sertaconazole.
  7. Register of Medicines of Russia, official instructions for Zalain® 2% cream.
  8. Register of Medicines of Russia, official instructions Zalain 300 mg, vaginal suppositories.
  9. RMJ No. 9, 2015. “Vulvovaginal candidiasis. The use of Zalain in clinical practice. E. S. Vanke, N. S. Vanke.
  10. Mondello F, De Bernardis F, Girolamo A, Cassone A, Salvatore G. In vivo activity of terpinen-4-ol, the main bioactive component of Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel (tea tree) oil against azole-susceptible and -resistant human pathogenic Candida species. BMC Infect Dis. 2006;6:158.
  11. Hammer KA, Carson CF, Riley TV. In vitro susceptibilities of lactobacilli and organisms associated with bacterial vaginosis to Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1999;43:196.
  12. Pena EF. Melaleuca alternifolia oil. Its use for trichomonal vaginitis and other vaginal infections. Obstet Gynecol 1962;19:793-5.
  13. Astani A, Reichling J, Schnitzler P. Comparative study on the antiviral activity of selected monoterpenes derived from essential oils. Python Res 2009; 24(5):673-9.
  14. Bassett, I. B., D. L. Pannowitz, and R. S. Barnetson. 1990. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoylperoxide in the treatment of acne. Med. J. Aust. 153:455-458.
  15. Carrillo-Muñoz AJ, Tur-Tur C, Giusiano G, Marcos-Arias C, Eraso E, Jauregizar N, Quindós G. Sertaconazole: an antifungal agent for the topical treatment of superficial candidiasis. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2013 Apr;11(4):347-58. doi: 10.1586/eri.13.17. PMID: 23566144.

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