Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Candida is a yeast (a type of fungus) that lives on the skin and can cause an infection. Symptoms of a yeast infection on the face include skin discoloration, skin thickening, and itchiness.

A variety of pathogens live on healthy skin, including bacteria, fungi, and dermatophytes. Typically, these pathogens are not harmful and even provide nutrients for the skin. However, in some situations, they can cause infections.

In this article, we discuss the causes and symptoms of yeast infections on the face and explain the different treatment options.

A yeast infection is an infection of the skin or mucous membranes, such as those inside the mouth or vagina. It occurs due to a fungus from the Candida species.

Candida albicans and other yeasts live on the skin with other pathogens, such as bacteria, dermatophytes, and other fungi, in a well-balanced ecosystem.

When the conditions of the skin change, the usual environment becomes disrupted.

This disruption can allow pathogens, including yeast, to increase in number and cause skin infections.

Yeast infections may occur on the feet or face and in the skin folds. People may also develop yeast infections on the eyelids and the corners of the mouth.

Researchers estimate that yeast skin infections affect about 20–25% of the world’s population.

People with a yeast infection on the face may experience:

• thickening of the skin
• itchiness
• redness

A yeast infection on the face can also occur if a person has developed intertrigo, which can lead to a fungal infection that affects the skin folds of the eyelids.

People with intertrigo on the face may notice:

• mild redness that might worsen over time
• oozing
• crusting
• inflammation, which is typically a sign of infection if it worsens

If a yeast infection follows intertrigo, the person may notice:

• itchiness
• pain
• burning
• thickening of the affected area
• the development of pus filled lesions in the area

Some people may have an acute infection, whereas others, such as those with diabetes or a weakened immune system, may have lingering, chronic yeast infections on the skin.

Infants can also develop a yeast infection called seborrheic dermatitis, which people sometimes refer to as cradle cap. It is a common skin condition that typically affects 10% of children in the first 3 months of their life.

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in infants may include:

• red, scaly patches of skin
• itching
• burning
• small, raised bumps on the skin

Researchers have identified 200 Candida species of yeast, but only some of these can cause yeast infections.

Typically, Candida albicans is responsible for yeast infections on the skin.

The following factors can trigger yeast infections:

• Friction: A yeast infection can occur between folds of skin due to friction.
• Medication: Antibiotics may disrupt the environment of the skin and cause an imbalance of the bacteria and fungi that live on the surface.
• Health conditions: People with a weakened immune system or diabetes may have a higher risk of developing yeast infections on the face.
• Injury to the skin: Injury to the skin and intertrigo can destroy the natural barrier of the skin, which may promote infections.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing yeast infections include:

• excessive sweating, called hyperhidrosis
• poor hygiene
• malnutrition

To treat a yeast infection on the face, people can use antifungal medications.

Topical antifungal products are available in the form of creams, gels, ointments, or sprays that people apply directly to the affected area, such as the face.

People should always be careful when treating facial rashes or skin conditions as the skin on the face is sensitive, particularly around the eyes. Some people may experience reactions to medications or treatments that they apply to the face, even if they do not have a reaction on other parts of their body.

Some infections may require oral or intravenous antifungals.

Examples of antifungals may include:

• econazole (Spectrazole)
• ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• clotrimazole (Canesten)
• terbinafine (Lamisil)
• miconazole (Monistat)
• amphotericin B (Fungizone)
• fluconazole (Diflucan)

If the yeast infection on the face is on a skin fold, such as the eyelid, the person may have developed intertrigo before the infection.

To manage intertrigo, doctors may also recommend minimizing moisture in the area and reducing friction using barrier creams.

However, barrier creams may irritate the area and help the yeast colonize on the skin.

People who want to apply barrier creams to a skin fold should speak to a doctor to make sure that it will not worsen the condition or pose a risk to the eye.

Yeast infections can occur in hot and humid weather. People should ensure that they dry themselves thoroughly after physical activity or sweating.

It is also best to avoid using terbinafine and ciclopirox (Loprox) cream with a cortisone cream because they have stronger anti-inflammatory effects.

People should not use a cortisone cream alone on a fungal infection as the steroid may worsen the infection. If cortisone is necessary, a person should use it alongside an antifungal treatment.

In infants, parents or caregivers can use emollients to treat yeast infections. These will soften and loosen the scales.

Doctors can diagnose a yeast infection on the face by carrying out a physical examination.

Sometimes, doctors will collect samples of the infection to confirm which pathogen caused the infection.

People can often self-diagnose yeast infections because they typically occur in moist or humid areas of the skin, such as the folds.

Applying an over-the-counter topical antifungal, such as clotrimazole, may relieve redness and itchiness, as well as treating the infection. However, before using medication, a person should speak to a doctor.

A person should see a doctor if they notice a rash on their face.

Doctors may want to collect a culture of the skin infection and check the sensitivity to antifungal treatments.

People with chronic infections may consult their doctor to discuss methods of prevention, which include reducing heat and moisture and keeping high risk areas clean and dry.

For most fungal infections, doctors recommend using antifungal treatments for 2–4 weeks. If there is no change, the person should make another doctor’s appointment for further testing.

Some people may experience side effects with antifungal treatments.

Side effects may include:

• rash
• headaches
• dizziness
• fatigue
• irritation
• burning
• itching

If these symptoms appear, people should stop using the medication and speak with a doctor.

Candida albicans is a yeast that causes fungal skin infections on the face.

People may be more likely to develop an infection on their face if they have diabetes, a weakened immune system, an injury, or intertrigo.

Yeast infections may burn, itch, and turn red.

People can treat yeast infections with antifungal creams, but more severe infections may require oral antifungals.

With the correct diagnosis and treatment, a yeast infection on the face may disappear in a few weeks.

Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Candida is a yeast (a type of fungus) that lives on the skin and can cause an infection. Symptoms of a yeast infection on the face include skin discoloration, skin thickening, and itchiness.

A variety of pathogens live on healthy skin, including bacteria, fungi, and dermatophytes. Typically, these pathogens are not harmful and even provide nutrients for the skin. However, in some situations, they can cause infections.

In this article, we discuss the causes and symptoms of yeast infections on the face and explain the different treatment options.

A yeast infection is an infection of the skin or mucous membranes, such as those inside the mouth or vagina. It occurs due to a fungus from the Candida species.

Candida albicans and other yeasts live on the skin with other pathogens, such as bacteria, dermatophytes, and other fungi, in a well-balanced ecosystem.

When the conditions of the skin change, the usual environment becomes disrupted.

This disruption can allow pathogens, including yeast, to increase in number and cause skin infections.

Yeast infections may occur on the feet or face and in the skin folds. People may also develop yeast infections on the eyelids and the corners of the mouth.

Researchers estimate that yeast skin infections affect about 20–25% of the world’s population.

People with a yeast infection on the face may experience:

• thickening of the skin
• itchiness
• redness

A yeast infection on the face can also occur if a person has developed intertrigo, which can lead to a fungal infection that affects the skin folds of the eyelids.

People with intertrigo on the face may notice:

• mild redness that might worsen over time
• oozing
• crusting
• inflammation, which is typically a sign of infection if it worsens

If a yeast infection follows intertrigo, the person may notice:

• itchiness
• pain
• burning
• thickening of the affected area
• the development of pus filled lesions in the area

Some people may have an acute infection, whereas others, such as those with diabetes or a weakened immune system, may have lingering, chronic yeast infections on the skin.

Infants can also develop a yeast infection called seborrheic dermatitis, which people sometimes refer to as cradle cap. It is a common skin condition that typically affects 10% of children in the first 3 months of their life.

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in infants may include:

• red, scaly patches of skin
• itching
• burning
• small, raised bumps on the skin

Researchers have identified 200 Candida species of yeast, but only some of these can cause yeast infections.

Typically, Candida albicans is responsible for yeast infections on the skin.

The following factors can trigger yeast infections:

• Friction: A yeast infection can occur between folds of skin due to friction.
• Medication: Antibiotics may disrupt the environment of the skin and cause an imbalance of the bacteria and fungi that live on the surface.
• Health conditions: People with a weakened immune system or diabetes may have a higher risk of developing yeast infections on the face.
• Injury to the skin: Injury to the skin and intertrigo can destroy the natural barrier of the skin, which may promote infections.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing yeast infections include:

• excessive sweating, called hyperhidrosis
• poor hygiene
• malnutrition

To treat a yeast infection on the face, people can use antifungal medications.

Topical antifungal products are available in the form of creams, gels, ointments, or sprays that people apply directly to the affected area, such as the face.

People should always be careful when treating facial rashes or skin conditions as the skin on the face is sensitive, particularly around the eyes. Some people may experience reactions to medications or treatments that they apply to the face, even if they do not have a reaction on other parts of their body.

Some infections may require oral or intravenous antifungals.

Examples of antifungals may include:

• econazole (Spectrazole)
• ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• clotrimazole (Canesten)
• terbinafine (Lamisil)
• miconazole (Monistat)
• amphotericin B (Fungizone)
• fluconazole (Diflucan)

If the yeast infection on the face is on a skin fold, such as the eyelid, the person may have developed intertrigo before the infection.

To manage intertrigo, doctors may also recommend minimizing moisture in the area and reducing friction using barrier creams.

However, barrier creams may irritate the area and help the yeast colonize on the skin.

People who want to apply barrier creams to a skin fold should speak to a doctor to make sure that it will not worsen the condition or pose a risk to the eye.

Yeast infections can occur in hot and humid weather. People should ensure that they dry themselves thoroughly after physical activity or sweating.

It is also best to avoid using terbinafine and ciclopirox (Loprox) cream with a cortisone cream because they have stronger anti-inflammatory effects.

People should not use a cortisone cream alone on a fungal infection as the steroid may worsen the infection. If cortisone is necessary, a person should use it alongside an antifungal treatment.

In infants, parents or caregivers can use emollients to treat yeast infections. These will soften and loosen the scales.

Doctors can diagnose a yeast infection on the face by carrying out a physical examination.

Sometimes, doctors will collect samples of the infection to confirm which pathogen caused the infection.

People can often self-diagnose yeast infections because they typically occur in moist or humid areas of the skin, such as the folds.

Applying an over-the-counter topical antifungal, such as clotrimazole, may relieve redness and itchiness, as well as treating the infection. However, before using medication, a person should speak to a doctor.

A person should see a doctor if they notice a rash on their face.

Doctors may want to collect a culture of the skin infection and check the sensitivity to antifungal treatments.

People with chronic infections may consult their doctor to discuss methods of prevention, which include reducing heat and moisture and keeping high risk areas clean and dry.

For most fungal infections, doctors recommend using antifungal treatments for 2–4 weeks. If there is no change, the person should make another doctor’s appointment for further testing.

Some people may experience side effects with antifungal treatments.

Side effects may include:

• rash
• headaches
• dizziness
• fatigue
• irritation
• burning
• itching

If these symptoms appear, people should stop using the medication and speak with a doctor.

Candida albicans is a yeast that causes fungal skin infections on the face.

People may be more likely to develop an infection on their face if they have diabetes, a weakened immune system, an injury, or intertrigo.

Yeast infections may burn, itch, and turn red.

People can treat yeast infections with antifungal creams, but more severe infections may require oral antifungals.

With the correct diagnosis and treatment, a yeast infection on the face may disappear in a few weeks.

Symptoms and treatment of candidiasis

Candidiasis (thrush) is an infection caused by yeast fungus – Candida. The fungus is found in every microflora, manifests itself on the mucous membranes of the body.

Symptoms of candidiasis:

1. The fungus, multiplying, releases substances that cause burning and itching of the mucosa.
2. Copious curdled discharge that has an unpleasant odor.
3. Pain during intercourse.
4. Burning and pain when urinating.
5. Vulva reddened and swollen.

Causes of candidiasis:

1. Weak immunity.
2. Chronic infections (may include HIV) .
3. Venereal diseases.
4. The constant use of antibiotics contributes to the appearance of dysbacteriosis.
5. Pregnancy.
6. Diabetes mellitus.
7. Hormonal changes.
8. Stressful condition.

Candidiasis occurs not only in women, but also in men and children.

In men, thrush affects the foreskin and glans. Candidiasis is not only spread through sexual contact. It is caused by a number of factors. Symptoms are very similar to sexually transmitted infections, so the gynecologist is involved in the diagnosis. Unsystematic self-treatment can turn an acute period into a chronic one, which lasts for years and very often worsens. Recently, despite the large number of antifungal agents, it is very difficult to fight and restore microflora with urogenital candidiasis. This may be due to a decrease in the quality of the environment, a decrease in the immunity of new generations, the widespread use of preservatives, self-medication, and excessive use of antibiotics. Thrush is transmitted to children during childbirth from a pathogenic strain of the mother, weakened immunity, allergic diseases, puberty, hormonal disruptions. In children, the symptoms are more acute (itching and pain are stronger). Allocations can be quite insignificant, colorless, practically without cheesy inclusions. Most often, girls can be asymptomatic carriers of candidiasis, which is acute, chronic and recurring.

First you need to find the source of this disease. The task of the doctor is to take an anamnesis, conduct an examination and take a smear. If a fungus is found that exceeds the norm, it is studied in order to prescribe a suitable treatment.

Stages of treatment of thrush:

1. The use of antifungal agents in the form of tablets, creams, suppositories.
2. Healthy food, good rest.
3. Maintenance of the immune system.
4. Restoration of intestinal microflora.

Pregnant women require special attention, because the risks for the unborn child are very high. You can’t self-medicate and let everything take its course, consultations with a gynecologist who leads the pregnancy are required. Treatment of candidiasis, provoked by HIV infections, requires work to increase immunity.

Ways to prevent thrush.

1. Douching is contraindicated.
2. Carefully select hygiene sprays, powders, soaps, and similar materials that come into contact with the vagina.
3. Include bifid-yogurt or lactobacilli in your diet.
4. Monitor your blood sugar levels.

Remember that self-treatment is dangerous and leads to serious consequences. At the first symptoms, a woman should go to a gynecologist, and a man to a urologist.

Medilux Service Medical Center has been operating in Vitebsk for 10 years. During this time, a professional team has been formed. The center is provided with expert level equipment. If you have any questions, please contact us by appointment or online. For customers there is a constant system of discounts and promotions.

Oral candidiasis, what is it and why is it dangerous, how to treat candidiasis – Comfort Dentistry

How it manifests itself and what is dangerous infection

The most striking symptom of oral candidiasis is a white loose coating on the mucosa. It mainly covers the tongue, cheeks, and can affect the gums and palate. The plaque is easily scraped off, the tissues underneath are prone to reddening and may bleed. Among other signs of the disease:

• unpleasant aftertaste;
• dry mouth;
• burning;
• the appearance of cracks in the corners of the lips;
• difficult or painful swallowing;
• discomfort with habitual movements of the tongue.

Candidiasis is acute and chronic. In most cases, it is the acute form that manifests itself, the chronic one is typical for carriers of HIV infections and smokers. Depending on the degree and form of the disease, other symptoms may also be observed, so even if one or two appear, you should immediately consult a dentist.

Causes of oral candidiasis

How does the disease occur? The fungus of the Candida species lives in the body from birth and, under certain circumstances, provokes the disease. What becomes the trigger for infection:

• weakening of the immune system;
• taking antibiotics;
• prolonged use of removable dentures, especially in the case of loose fit;
• inadequate oral hygiene;
• smoking;
• oncology;
• use of inhalers for asthma;
• an excess of simple carbohydrates in the diet;
• period of pregnancy;
• infancy or old age.

It can be seen that there are many reasons, often they act together, less often – alone. In general, oral candidiasis in adults is rare. It mainly affects babies in the first years of life and the elderly. Among these categories, the prevalence of the disease reaches 10%.

How is oral candidiasis treated

To begin with, let’s say that treatment is necessary, otherwise the infection spreads to the pharynx, tonsils, and gums. Further, the disease descends into the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver and causes them irreparable harm.

At the first signs of candidiasis of the oral mucosa, you should contact your dentist or therapist to confirm the diagnosis. At the doctor’s appointment, describe all the symptoms you have, even those that are not on the list. For example, you have noticed increased anxiety or a tendency to stress lately. Information about the medications you take, recent illnesses and the presence in the community of sick people is also important. To confirm the diagnosis, it is often enough to take a swab from the oral cavity and conduct an appropriate analysis. If the disease has already spread to other organs, a more thorough examination may be required, for example, endoscopy – diagnosis of the condition of the esophagus and stomach using a flexible tube with a camera at the end.

How to treat oral candidiasis? Treatment can be local or systemic, depending on the form and stage of the disease. At local prescribe antifungal agents and antiseptics. It can be sprays, rinses, gels, lozenges and more. Treatment on average takes up to 3 weeks, as a general rule – until the symptoms disappear and another week. Systemic treatment is used for chronic forms or when the infection spreads to other organs. It usually involves the use of more drugs designed to treat the directly affected areas.

Never self-medicate! A fungal infection has nothing to do with inflammation, so you are more likely to harm your body with your actions. In doing so, you can reduce the harmful effects of the infection and make you feel better. To do this, eat natural sugar-free yogurt and take probiotics as recommended by your doctor. But these actions are not a complete treatment for candidiasis in the mouth!

How to avoid candidiasis?

To prevent the disease, you must follow a few simple rules:

• maintain oral hygiene;
• contact the dentist at least twice a year, even in the absence of complaints;
• control nutrition, avoid excess carbohydrates in food;
• refrain from smoking, which can cause a chronic form of the disease.