Candidiasis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Yeast overgrowth in different parts of the body can cause Candidiasis, a common fungal infection. Yeast normally lives on the skin, mouth, vagina, and gastrointestinal tract in small amounts, but certain factors can disrupt the balance of yeast and healthy bacteria, resulting in infection.
Causes of Candidiasis
Some of the factors that can increase the risk of candidiasis are:
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Antibiotics, which can reduce the amount of good bacteria in the body
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Pregnancy, which can change the hormonal balance and pH of the vagina
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Diabetes, especially if poorly controlled, which can affect the sugar levels in the body fluids
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Weak immune system, due to illness or medications such as corticosteroids or anticancer drugs
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Stress, which can affect the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infections
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Poor hygiene, which can create moist and warm conditions for yeast to grow
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Tight-fitting clothing, which can trap moisture and heat in the skin folds
Symptoms of Candidiasis
The symptoms of candidiasis depend on the location and severity of the infection. Some of the common types and symptoms of candidiasis are:
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Thrush, which is an infection of the mouth and throat, causing white patches, soreness, and difficulty swallowing
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Esophagitis, which is an infection of the esophagus, causing pain, nausea, and vomiting
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Cutaneous candidiasis, which is an infection of the skin, causing red, itchy, and scaly rashes, especially in the folds of the skin such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts
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Vaginal yeast infection, which is an infection of the vagina, causing itching, burning, swelling, and thick, white discharge
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Invasive candidiasis, which is a serious infection that spreads throughout the body, affecting the blood, heart, brain, eyes, bones, and other organs, causing fever, chills, organ failure, and potentially death
Diagnosis of Candidiasis
Patients with candidiasis can be diagnosed by talking about their symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. In addition to the physical examination, a doctor may also take a sample of the affected area for laboratory testing, such as the skin, mouth, or vagina. In some cases, the doctor may order blood tests or imaging tests to check for signs of invasive candidiasis. The sample may be examined under a microscope or cultured to identify the type and amount of yeast present.
Treatment of Candidiasis
A variety of treatments are available to treat candidiasis depending on its location, type, and severity. The main goal of treatment is to eradicate the yeast and restore the body's normal flora.
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Depending on the site of infection, antifungal medications can be taken orally, applied topically, or inserted vaginally. Antifungal medications include fluconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, and nystatin, which can kill yeast or prevent it from multiplying.
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A probiotic is a supplement or food that contains live bacteria that can help restore the balance of the gut and vaginal flora. Probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
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Home remedies, which are natural or alternative methods that can help relieve the symptoms and prevent candidiasis from recurring. Home remedies include apple cider vinegar, garlic, tea tree oil, and coconut oil. However, these remedies have not been proven to be effective or safe, and shouldn't be used in place of medical treatment prescribed by the doctor.
Prevention of Candidiasis
To prevent candidiasis, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and hygiene. Some of the preventive measures are:
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Avoiding or limiting the use of antibiotics, unless prescribed by the doctor
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Controlling the blood sugar levels, especially for people with diabetes
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Strengthening the immune system, by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress
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Practicing good hygiene, by washing the hands, body, and genitals regularly, and keeping the skin dry and clean
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Wearing loose-fitting and breathable clothing, made of natural fabrics such as cotton or silk
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Changing the underwear, socks, and towels daily, and washing them in hot water
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Avoiding douching, scented products, or harsh chemicals that can irritate the vagina
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Using condoms or dental dams during sexual intercourse, to prevent the transmission of yeast or other infections
When left untreated or affecting people with weakened immune systems, candidiasis can cause serious complications, but it is a common and treatable condition. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor if the symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are symptoms of a systemic infection. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, candidiasis can be cured and prevented from recurring.
