What are the main causes of yeast infections in stomach folds. How can you identify the symptoms of intertrigo. What are the most effective treatments for skin fold infections. How can you prevent recurrent yeast infections in skin folds.

Understanding Intertrigo: The Culprit Behind Stomach Fold Infections

Intertrigo is a common skin condition that occurs when folds of skin rub against each other, creating an environment ripe for irritation and infection. This condition frequently affects areas such as the stomach folds, inner thighs, armpits, and under the breasts. The warm, moist environment in these areas provides an ideal breeding ground for yeast and bacteria, potentially leading to infections.

Who is most susceptible to intertrigo? While it can affect individuals of any age, certain groups are at higher risk:

• Infants (often manifesting as diaper rash)
• Older adults
• People with limited mobility
• Individuals with obesity
• Those with diabetes
• People with weakened immune systems

The prevalence of intertrigo tends to increase during hot and humid weather, making summer a particularly problematic season for those prone to this condition.

Identifying the Symptoms: When to Suspect a Yeast Infection in Stomach Folds

Recognizing the signs of intertrigo is crucial for early intervention and treatment. The primary symptoms include:

• A red, raw-looking rash in skin folds
• Soreness or itching in the affected area
• Possible oozing from the rash
• In severe cases, a foul odor may be present

Is the appearance of intertrigo always the same? Not necessarily. The rash can vary in severity and may develop in multiple skin folds simultaneously. It’s important to monitor any persistent skin changes in these areas and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen or fail to improve with home care.

The Root Causes: Why Yeast Thrives in Stomach Folds

Understanding the factors that contribute to yeast infections in stomach folds is essential for both treatment and prevention. The primary culprits include:

1. Moisture: Sweat and skin secretions trapped in skin folds create a damp environment.
2. Friction: Skin rubbing against skin leads to irritation and breakdown of the skin barrier.
3. Lack of airflow: Closed skin folds prevent proper ventilation, exacerbating moisture issues.
4. Body heat: Warmth in skin folds promotes the growth of yeast and bacteria.
5. Compromised skin barrier: Irritation from friction can make the skin more susceptible to infection.

Are there specific health conditions that increase the risk of intertrigo? Indeed, several conditions can predispose individuals to this skin issue:

Inverse Psoriasis

Also known as intertriginous psoriasis, this form of psoriasis specifically targets skin folds. It presents as red, shiny patches in areas where skin meets skin.

Hailey-Hailey Disease

This rare genetic disorder affects skin cell adhesion, leading to blisters and irritations in skin folds, particularly in the neck, armpits, and genital areas.

Pemphigus

An autoimmune condition causing blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, pemphigus can exacerbate skin fold issues.

Bullous Pemphigoid

Another autoimmune disorder, bullous pemphigoid causes itchy welts or blisters, often in areas where the skin flexes or moves frequently.

Diagnosis: How Healthcare Professionals Identify Yeast Infections in Stomach Folds

Accurate diagnosis of intertrigo is crucial for effective treatment. Typically, a dermatologist will make the diagnosis through:

• Visual inspection of the affected skin
• Detailed discussion of symptoms and medical history
• In some cases, a skin swab for laboratory analysis to identify specific yeast or bacterial strains

Why is it important to consult a dermatologist for persistent skin fold issues? Dermatologists have specialized training in identifying and treating skin conditions. Their expertise ensures accurate diagnosis, especially in cases where intertrigo may be confused with other skin disorders or when secondary infections are present.

Effective Treatments: Combating Yeast Infections in Stomach Folds

Treating intertrigo and associated yeast infections requires a multi-faceted approach. The Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association recommends the following treatment protocol:

1. Cleanse the area with ketoconazole 1% shampoo, leaving it on for 2-5 minutes before rinsing.
2. Thoroughly dry the area, using a hairdryer on a low setting if necessary.
3. Apply a mixture of equal parts clotrimazole 1% (or miconazole 1%) cream and hydrocortisone 1% cream twice daily.
4. Continue treatment for 3-8 weeks or until the rash clears.
5. Maintain the area with weekly ketoconazole shampoo washes and thorough drying after bathing.

Are there any natural remedies that can complement medical treatments? While it’s essential to follow professional medical advice, some individuals find relief with natural approaches such as:

• Apple cider vinegar diluted with water as a cleansing solution
• Tea tree oil mixed with a carrier oil for its antifungal properties
• Coconut oil as a moisturizer with natural antifungal qualities

It’s important to note that natural remedies should be used cautiously and in consultation with a healthcare provider, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or severe infections.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Yeast Infections at Bay

Preventing recurrent yeast infections in stomach folds is key to long-term skin health. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology suggests several preventive measures:

• Use absorbent materials like cotton to wick away moisture in skin folds
• Apply antiperspirants to reduce sweating in prone areas
• Wash daily with an antibacterial soap
• After cleansing, apply an antifungal powder to keep the area dry
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to promote air circulation

For individuals dealing with obesity-related intertrigo, what additional steps can be taken? Working with a healthcare provider to develop a weight management plan can be beneficial. Losing weight can reduce skin-to-skin contact in folds, decreasing the risk of intertrigo. Additionally, maintaining good overall health through diet and exercise can support the body’s natural defense against infections.

When to Seek Professional Help: Recognizing Severe or Persistent Cases

While many cases of intertrigo can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Seek help if:

• The rash persists or worsens despite home treatment
• You develop a fever or chills
• The affected area becomes increasingly painful or swollen
• You notice pus or a foul odor from the rash
• The condition frequently recurs despite preventive measures

Why is prompt medical attention important for persistent skin fold infections? Untreated or severe cases of intertrigo can lead to more serious complications, including cellulitis (a deep skin infection) or systemic yeast infections. Early intervention by a healthcare professional can prevent these complications and provide more targeted treatment options.

Living with Intertrigo: Long-Term Management and Lifestyle Adjustments

For individuals prone to recurrent yeast infections in stomach folds, long-term management strategies are crucial. Consider the following lifestyle adjustments:

1. Maintain a consistent skincare routine, focusing on keeping prone areas clean and dry.
2. Invest in moisture-wicking clothing and undergarments to reduce sweat accumulation.
3. Consider using body powders or antiperspirants specifically designed for skin folds.
4. Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress can weaken the immune system and exacerbate skin issues.
5. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall skin health.

How can individuals with chronic health conditions manage their risk of intertrigo? Those with conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their underlying condition effectively. This may include:

• Regular check-ups to monitor overall health and skin condition
• Adherence to prescribed medications and treatments
• Blood sugar management for diabetics to reduce the risk of skin infections
• Customized skincare routines tailored to their specific health needs

By taking a proactive approach to skin health and overall wellness, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing yeast infections in stomach folds and other skin areas prone to intertrigo.

Causes, symptoms, pictures, and treatment

Intertrigo is a skin condition that causes a rash in skin folds, such as under the breasts, in the groin, or in stomach folds. The rash may be sore or itchy.

It happens when areas of moist skin rub together. Bacteria and yeast can grow in this environment, leading to an infection.

In this article, we describe what intertrigo is, what it looks like, and what causes it. We also cover diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Intertrigo is a skin condition that happens when folds of skin chafe against each other.

It usually develops in the inner thighs or armpits, or under the breasts or tummy fold.

Some people may experience yeast or bacterial infections in the folds of skin.

Areas of moist skin rubbing together cause intertrigo. The warm, damp environment makes the skin conducive to irritation and the growth of yeast and bacteria, which can lead to an infection.

While it can happen at any age, intertrigo tends to affect infants, older people, and those with a reduced ability to move around. In babies, it is often called diaper rash. Most cases occur in hot or humid environments and during the summer.

Intertrigo is also more common in adults with incontinence, obesity, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

Specific health conditions that can contribute to the development of intertrigo include:

Inverse psoriasis

Also known as intertriginous psoriasis, this form of psoriasis develops in the folds of the skin. It can look red and shiny.

Hailey-Hailey disease

Hailey-Hailey disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes skin cells to stick together and breaks down the layers of the skin.

People with Hailey-Hailey disease usually experience blisters and irritations on the neck, armpits, and genitals and in the folds of the skin.

Pemphigus

There are different types of pemphigus, but they all happen when the body’s immune system attacks the healthy cells in the top layer of the skin.

It typically causes blisters in the mouth, nose, throat, eyes, or genitals.

Bullous pemphigoid

A fault in the immune system causes bullous pemphigoid. People with the condition can develop mild, itchy welts or more severe blisters on the skin. These tend to appear on areas of the skin that flex or move.

Intertrigo looks like a red, raw rash on the skin. It may feel sore or itchy, and it can sometimes ooze.

It can develop in any fold of the skin. The most commonly affected areas of the body include:

• the inner thighs
• under the breasts
• in the fold of skin underneath a protruding belly
• the groin
• between the buttocks
• in the webs of the fingers
• in the webs of the toes

Intertrigo may develop in one or more of these places.

It will often be a specialist skin doctor, or dermatologist, who diagnoses intertrigo. They will do this by inspecting the skin and asking a series of questions about the person’s symptoms.

If the dermatologist suspects that a yeast or bacterial infection has developed in the skin fold, they may take a swab and send it to a laboratory for analysis.

An article in the Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association offers the following advice on treating intertrigo:

• Wash the affected area with ketoconazole 1% shampoo, which is available from most drugstores. People should leave it on for 2–5 minutes and then rinse it off.
• Use a hairdryer on a low setting to ensure that the area is completely dry.
• Mix equal amounts of clotrimazole 1% cream (or miconazole 1% cream) and hydrocortisone 1% cream and apply a thin layer to the affected area. People should do this twice a day until the rash is clear, which may take 3–8 weeks.
• Once the rash has cleared, continue to use the ketoconazole 1% shampoo as soap in the affected area at least once a week.
• Dry the skin with a hairdryer after every bath or shower, or whenever it feels particularly damp.

The best way to prevent intertrigo is to keep the area dry. People who experience the condition due to obesity can speak to a doctor about ways to lose weight and reduce the risk of skin complications.

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology suggest that people prevent intertrigo by:

• placing a wad of absorbent material, such as cotton, in the affected fold to absorb sweat
• using antiperspirants
• washing daily with an antibacterial soap
• dusting the affected area with an absorbent antifungal powder once it is clean and dry

Anyone who finds that the problem keeps coming back should speak to a doctor.

Intertrigo is a skin condition that happens when areas of moist skin rub against each other. It causes a red, raw-looking rash and can lead to yeast and bacterial infections.

It can happen to anyone, but it is most common in babies, older people, individuals with mobility problems, and those with obesity.

People can easily treat the rash at home with over-the-counter creams and lotions. They can also prevent it from coming back by keeping the area clean and dry.

Anyone who experiences multiple incidences of intertrigo should speak to a doctor.

Causes, symptoms, pictures, and treatment

Intertrigo is a skin condition that causes a rash in skin folds, such as under the breasts, in the groin, or in stomach folds. The rash may be sore or itchy.

It happens when areas of moist skin rub together. Bacteria and yeast can grow in this environment, leading to an infection.

In this article, we describe what intertrigo is, what it looks like, and what causes it. We also cover diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Intertrigo is a skin condition that happens when folds of skin chafe against each other.

It usually develops in the inner thighs or armpits, or under the breasts or tummy fold.

Some people may experience yeast or bacterial infections in the folds of skin.

Areas of moist skin rubbing together cause intertrigo. The warm, damp environment makes the skin conducive to irritation and the growth of yeast and bacteria, which can lead to an infection.

While it can happen at any age, intertrigo tends to affect infants, older people, and those with a reduced ability to move around. In babies, it is often called diaper rash. Most cases occur in hot or humid environments and during the summer.

Intertrigo is also more common in adults with incontinence, obesity, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

Specific health conditions that can contribute to the development of intertrigo include:

Inverse psoriasis

Also known as intertriginous psoriasis, this form of psoriasis develops in the folds of the skin. It can look red and shiny.

Hailey-Hailey disease

Hailey-Hailey disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes skin cells to stick together and breaks down the layers of the skin.

People with Hailey-Hailey disease usually experience blisters and irritations on the neck, armpits, and genitals and in the folds of the skin.

Pemphigus

There are different types of pemphigus, but they all happen when the body’s immune system attacks the healthy cells in the top layer of the skin.

It typically causes blisters in the mouth, nose, throat, eyes, or genitals.

Bullous pemphigoid

A fault in the immune system causes bullous pemphigoid. People with the condition can develop mild, itchy welts or more severe blisters on the skin. These tend to appear on areas of the skin that flex or move.

Intertrigo looks like a red, raw rash on the skin. It may feel sore or itchy, and it can sometimes ooze.

It can develop in any fold of the skin. The most commonly affected areas of the body include:

• the inner thighs
• under the breasts
• in the fold of skin underneath a protruding belly
• the groin
• between the buttocks
• in the webs of the fingers
• in the webs of the toes

Intertrigo may develop in one or more of these places.

It will often be a specialist skin doctor, or dermatologist, who diagnoses intertrigo. They will do this by inspecting the skin and asking a series of questions about the person’s symptoms.

If the dermatologist suspects that a yeast or bacterial infection has developed in the skin fold, they may take a swab and send it to a laboratory for analysis.

An article in the Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association offers the following advice on treating intertrigo:

• Wash the affected area with ketoconazole 1% shampoo, which is available from most drugstores. People should leave it on for 2–5 minutes and then rinse it off.
• Use a hairdryer on a low setting to ensure that the area is completely dry.
• Mix equal amounts of clotrimazole 1% cream (or miconazole 1% cream) and hydrocortisone 1% cream and apply a thin layer to the affected area. People should do this twice a day until the rash is clear, which may take 3–8 weeks.
• Once the rash has cleared, continue to use the ketoconazole 1% shampoo as soap in the affected area at least once a week.
• Dry the skin with a hairdryer after every bath or shower, or whenever it feels particularly damp.

The best way to prevent intertrigo is to keep the area dry. People who experience the condition due to obesity can speak to a doctor about ways to lose weight and reduce the risk of skin complications.

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology suggest that people prevent intertrigo by:

• placing a wad of absorbent material, such as cotton, in the affected fold to absorb sweat
• using antiperspirants
• washing daily with an antibacterial soap
• dusting the affected area with an absorbent antifungal powder once it is clean and dry

Anyone who finds that the problem keeps coming back should speak to a doctor.

Intertrigo is a skin condition that happens when areas of moist skin rub against each other. It causes a red, raw-looking rash and can lead to yeast and bacterial infections.

It can happen to anyone, but it is most common in babies, older people, individuals with mobility problems, and those with obesity.

People can easily treat the rash at home with over-the-counter creams and lotions. They can also prevent it from coming back by keeping the area clean and dry.

Anyone who experiences multiple incidences of intertrigo should speak to a doctor.

Candidiasis: causes, symptoms, treatment

The article was checked by the doctor: Sokolova Marina Olegovna

Consultation with a specialist:

The disease is a chronic infectious process that is caused by pathogenic fungal microorganisms of the genus Candida. Fungi affect not only the skin and mucous membranes, but also internal organs, which can lead to serious health consequences.

It is impossible to completely get rid of fungal microorganisms. However, lifestyle changes and the right treatment tactics chosen by the doctor will help stop their growth and reduce their number to normal. In this article, you will learn everything about candidiasis, its symptoms and treatment.

Causes of candidiasis

In a small amount, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida are present in the body of any person. However, when an immunodeficiency occurs, their active growth begins, the body’s defenses cannot cope, and a disease occurs.

Various reasons can lead to a decrease in immunity. However, the most important culprit is the incorrect or inappropriate use of antibiotics. They destroy the “good” microorganisms in the intestines, which are the guardians of human health. Without them, the defense weakens, and the infection takes over.

There are also negative factors that can provoke the disease. They are divided into 2 large groups:

• External.

Thanks to them, the infection enters the body through damaged skin (burns, cuts, cracks). For example, damage to the oral mucosa can occur due to poor hygiene, periodontitis, and improperly selected prostheses.

• Internal (endogenous).

These include diseases that lead to a decrease in immunity, as well as a congenital state of immunodeficiency. These are beriberi, hormonal disruptions, metabolic disorders, anemia, chronic gastrointestinal pathologies, diabetes mellitus.

Signs of candidiasis may appear due to frequent exposure of the skin or mucous membranes to chemicals. Taking hormonal contraceptives, alcohol abuse, smoking, unfavorable ecology in the place of residence and frequent stress can also lead to the disease.

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How candidiasis manifests itself

The manifestations of this infectious disease are varied. They depend on the place of origin and on which organ was attacked by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. Consider the main types of the disease and its symptoms.

Superficial candidiasis

It develops on the surface of the skin and its appendages (hair, nails), and also affects the mucous membranes of the lips, mouth, genitals and anal area.

• Oral and throat candidiasis

Most often, complaints are that a person is concerned about burning, dryness or discomfort in the mouth. The pain gets worse when eating. The mucous membrane of the oral cavity becomes edematous, small white rashes appear. A whitish film or a strong gray coating may form.

• Skin, nail and hair disorders

With cutaneous candidiasis, the symptoms at the initial stage appear as a slightly noticeable white strip in the folds of the skin. Then itching joins, and erosive lesions occur. Small bubbles merge, and the fungal disease spreads to healthy areas. If a secondary infection joins as a result of scratching, then ulcers occur.

When a fungal infection affects the nails, reddening of the nail fold occurs first, and then abscesses may appear. The nail plate itself becomes brittle, may crack, and throbbing pain occurs.

Candidal lesions of hair follicles are not common. Such a disease is manifested by the formation of a purulent rash at the site of hair growth on the head or in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe beard, mustache.

• Genital candidiasis

In women, opportunistic microorganisms of the genus Candida are constantly present in the vagina, and normally do not manifest themselves in any way. But under the influence of adverse factors, their number increases, and then a woman develops candidiasis or thrush.

Usually, burning and itching in the genital area of ​​the male organs is felt 2-3 hours after contact. However, after a couple of days, the symptoms weaken or disappear completely until the next sexual intercourse. In severe cases, multiple abscesses occur, which can pass from the genitals to the skin (inguinal folds).

The female form of candidiasis is accompanied by itching, which increases during movement, during sexual intercourse and during menstruation. There may be sensations of burning, pain and discomfort. Often there are complaints of thick, cheesy discharge. Outwardly, you can see the edematous mucous membrane of the labia with small dotted inclusions.

Chronic generalized candidiasis

This form of the disease is characterized by multiple lesions of the skin, mucous membranes and internal organs. It externally manifests itself in the formation of a dense white coating, after the removal of which erosion forms. A fairly rare form of the disease, so the exact causes of its occurrence are little studied. Manifested by general malaise, lethargy, headaches, apathy, fever.

Systemic candidiasis

Fungal microorganisms infect only internal organs and systems.

• Gastrointestinal tract

With damage to the esophagus, stomach or intestines, there is pain when swallowing, a burning sensation, nausea, vomiting, and frequent belching. Due to pain during meals, a person’s appetite decreases, weight decreases, which leads to a deterioration in overall well-being.

• Respiratory organs and airways

Fungal microorganisms in the larynx, trachea or bronchi can enter from the affected oral cavity. It is characterized by cough, shortness of breath, itching. The disease negatively affects the vocal cords, which can lead to hoarseness or temporary loss of voice.

• Genitourinary system

A common cause of lesions of the urogenital organs with candidiasis is a nosocomial infection. It is also possible the appearance of such a disease in the form of a complication after surgery. It mainly occurs in the form of diseases such as cystitis, urethritis and pyelonephritis with all the accompanying symptoms.

If adequate treatment is not started in a timely manner, then a candidal infection of any kind acquires a chronic course.

Diagnosis of candidiasis

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• Gynecologist

It is known that there are more than 70 species of yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. Many of them can lead to painful symptoms, so a preliminary examination is extremely important to determine the correct and effective treatment.

To determine the causative agent of an infectious disease, a number of laboratory tests are required. Diagnosis of candidiasis includes the following methods:

• study of biological material (skin, mucus, plaque). For this, skin scrapings, smears are prescribed, and scales, crusts or plaque from the mucous membranes are also taken to study;
• hemotest for determining the level of globulins. If their number exceeds the norm, then it means that there is a high probability of an infection;
• general tests: feces, urine, blood. Necessary for suspected systemic form of candidiasis.

When the gastrointestinal tract is affected by fungal microorganisms, an endoscopic examination is performed. Often it is assigned to take material for subsequent detailed laboratory study. Your doctor may also order a colonoscopy, bronchoscopy, or x-ray.

How to cure the disease “candidiasis”

A thorough preliminary study allows you to identify the type of fungus, as well as its sensitivity to certain bacterial preparations. If this is not done, then the treatment will be ineffective, and the disease will worsen. In no case should you self-medicate.

The doctor selects medications depending on what type of fungal infection has been identified. To eliminate external manifestations, various antifungal ointments, gels, creams are used. Concomitant diseases are being treated, it is especially important to put the intestinal microflora in order.

At the same time, immunostimulating therapy is carried out. This is the intake of vitamins, lifestyle changes, adherence to the recommended diet. All flour products, sugar, alcohol and fatty foods are excluded. It is possible to supplement drug therapy with folk remedies, but only after consultation with your doctor.

Prevention of candidiasis

Any disease is easier to prevent than to cure. The presence of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms of the genus Candida in itself is not harmful to the body. People who do not have immunodeficiency, even with constant contact with the pathogen, do not get candidiasis, since the immune system copes well with the infection. Therefore, the main prevention is to maintain the body’s defenses in a workable active state. To do this, you need to eat right, exercise, do not start chronic diseases, and undergo preventive examinations.

An important point is nutrition. Many products provide a breeding ground for the active growth of yeast-like fungus. The most dangerous in this regard is sugar. Do not abuse sweets and pastries.

Also eliminate bad habits, try to avoid stress, and allow yourself to relax more in the fresh air. Take antibiotics only on the recommendation of a doctor and only in conjunction with probiotics.

Be sure to observe personal hygiene. You should be especially careful in public places where it is humid and warm. This is a sauna, swimming pool, bath.

Taking care of yourself is the basis of good health, and then no infections can harm and lead to illness. But if you suspect that you have symptoms of a fungal infection, consult a doctor in a timely manner, and then you can quickly cope with the disease.

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Candidiasis – Medical Diagnostic Center “Medicina”

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a lesion of the skin, mucous membranes and nails by opportunistic yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida.

Numerous variants of yeast infections are divided into superficial and systemic candidiasis. Of the most common superficial lesions of large folds (inguinal, axillary, etc.), m finger yeast erosion, candidiasis of the corners of the mouth (candidiasis seizure), candidal lesions of the genital organs (thrush).

Yeast infection of the nails occurs more often in combination with lesions of smooth skin or mucous membranes, but an isolated lesion is also possible.

The most severe form of candidiasis is systemic or visceral candidiasis, occurring with damage to internal organs.

Currently, there is an increase in the incidence of candidiasis among people of different ages and sexes. The reasons for this phenomenon are varied.

Since the entire genus Candida belongs to conditional pathogens and fungi can be found on the skin and mucous membranes of absolutely healthy people, their presence is not enough for the onset of the disease. The state of the human body is of decisive importance.

Metabolic diseases (diabetes mellitus, obesity, protein metabolism disorders), concomitant infectious processes (bacterial, viral, fungal), blood system diseases, oncological diseases, etc., come to the fore, that is, any processes that depress the immune body protection.

One of the common causes of candida infection is intestinal dysbacteriosis, arising as a result of widespread and uncontrolled use of antibacterial drugs. We must not forget that during the treatment with such drugs, not only pathogenic bacteria are destroyed, but also all the beneficial microflora that inhabits the intestines. Massively killed useful Escherichia coli, bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, which play a huge role in the state of the body’s immune system and inhibit the reproduction of bacterial, fungal and viral infections. The result is the active growth of fungi, namely yeast, located on the skin and mucous membranes of any person.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis, popularly referred to as “thrush”, and accompanied by burning, itching and cheesy discharge, very often occurs during treatment with antibacterial drugs and everything is clear here: peroxide-forming lactobacilli, which make up 95 – 98% of all microorganisms, die, inhabiting the mucous membranes of the genital organs of a healthy woman, and instead of them, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida actively grow and develop, giving ladies « unforgettable » sensations. By the way, it is lactobacilli that produce hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid that are the natural protection of the mucous membranes of the female genital organs from any (bacterial, viral, fungal) infection, and their reduction or complete absence causes significant damage to women’s health. Replacing the normal flora of the vagina with opportunistic and fungal ones does not pass without a trace: discharge with an unpleasant odor appears, discomfort and the diagnosis is pronounced “bacterial vaginosis” . If this condition occurs against the background of hormonal disorders, then the recovery process is delayed, leading to relapses of candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis.

Viral infections should not be ignored either. Against the background of papillomatosis of the mucous membranes of the vulva and vagina, as well as herpesvirus diseases, indicating a violation of local immune defense and microflora, candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis develop, which proceed stubbornly. Treatment in such conditions is difficult and not always as fast as we would like.

Returning to the topic of vulvovaginal candidiasis, I would like to note that thrush is one of the most common diseases that dermatovenereologists, obstetricians and gynecologists have to deal with in practice. Having extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease, I can say that patients with relapses of candidiasis need to be examined, excluding the presence of infections, predominantly sexually transmitted, feces for dysbacteriosis and a quantitative analysis of the vaginal microflora in order to correct it.

As for men, candidal lesions of the genital organs are much less common in them than in women, which is associated with the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the male body. However, concomitant diseases, irrational antibiotic treatment, especially sexual behavior, combined with promiscuous sexual intercourse and the lack of proper prevention of sexually transmitted infections, leads to an increase in candidal lesions of the male genitalia.

There is another aspect of the problem of candidiasis. The fact is that yeast, like all fungi that affect the skin and mucous membranes, have pronounced sensitizing properties, which means they lead to the formation of allergic reactions, thereby complicating the treatment process.

In conclusion, I would like to give some recommendations for the prevention of candidiasis.

Never use drugs such as antibiotics, hormones, and cytostatics on your own or on the advice of friends or pharmacists. Harm from such “ treatment ” is inevitable.