Candidiasis is a common fungal infection caused by a yeast-like fungus called Candida. This fungus naturally lives in small amounts on the skin, in the mouth, and in the intestines of healthy people without causing any problems. However, when it grows too much, it can lead to infections known as candidiasis (CDC, 2023). These infections can range from mild to serious and may affect different parts of the body.
What Causes Candidiasis?
Candidiasis is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. Normally, the immune system and friendly bacteria in the body keep this fungus under control. But certain conditions can make it easier for Candida to grow and cause infection. These include:
- Taking antibiotics, which can kill the good bacteria in the body
- Having a weakened immune system due to illness, cancer treatment, or HIV
- Having diabetes or high blood sugar levels
- Using corticosteroids or birth control pills
- Wearing tight or non-breathable clothing
- High levels of stress or poor diet
When the balance of the body is disturbed, Candida can multiply and lead to infection (Mayer et al., 2013).
Types of Candidiasis
Candidiasis can appear in different parts of the body. Some of the common types include:
1. Oral Thrush: This is a yeast infection in the mouth. It causes white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or throat. It can be painful and may make eating or swallowing difficult (Pappas et al., 2018).
2. Vaginal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection): This is common in women and causes itching, burning, and a thick white discharge from the vagina. It is not usually a sexually transmitted infection, but it can spread through sexual contact.
3. Skin Candidiasis: This affects moist areas of the skin like under the breasts, between fingers or toes, or in the groin. It causes red, itchy rashes and can sometimes lead to cracking or soreness.
4. Invasive Candidiasis: This is the most serious form. It happens when Candida enters the bloodstream and spreads to organs like the heart, brain, eyes, or kidneys. This is more likely in people who are very sick or have been in the hospital for a long time (CDC, 2023).
Symptoms to Look Out For
The symptoms of candidiasis depend on where the infection is:
Mouth: White patches, soreness, loss of taste
Skin: Red rash, itching, burning
Vagina: Itching, swelling, discharge
Blood or organs: Fever, chills, and symptoms of organ dysfunction (in severe cases)
If the infection is mild, it may go away on its own or with simple treatment. But more serious infections need quick medical attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose candidiasis, doctors usually look at the affected area and may take a sample to look at under a microscope. Blood tests may be used if the infection is in the bloodstream.
Treatment depends on how bad the infection is and where it is located. Mild skin or mouth infections can often be treated with antifungal creams, mouthwashes, or tablets. Vaginal yeast infections are usually treated with antifungal pills or creams, which are available over the counter or by prescription (Pappas et al., 2018).
For invasive candidiasis, stronger antifungal medicines are given through a vein (IV), and treatment may take several weeks.
Prevention
Here are some easy ways to lower your risk of getting candidiasis:
- Keep your skin dry and clean, especially in moist areas.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes for long periods.
- Limit sugar in your diet, as high sugar can help yeast grow.
- Use antibiotics only when needed and follow your doctor’s instructions.
- If you have diabetes, try to keep your blood sugar under control.
- Practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly.
People with weakened immune systems should be extra careful and may need preventive antifungal medicine (CDC, 2023).
Candidiasis is usually not dangerous when treated early, but it can be uncomfortable and sometimes serious if ignored. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and following prevention tips, most people can avoid or manage this common fungal infection. If you think you may have candidiasis, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to get the right diagnosis and treatment.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Candidiasis. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/index.html
- Mayer, F. L., Wilson, D., & Hube, B. (2013). Candida albicans pathogenicity mechanisms. Virulence, 4(2), 119–128. https://doi.org/10.4161/viru.22913
- Pappas, P. G., Kauffman, C. A., Andes, D. R., Clancy, C. J., Marr, K. A., Ostrosky-Zeichner, L., … & Sobel, J. D. (2018). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Candidiasis: 2016 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 62(4), e1–e50. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/civ933
