ABSTRACT – Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by a yeast, Candida Albicans which gets accumulated at the lining of...
Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by a yeast, Candida Albicans which gets accumulated at the lining of the mouth known as Oral Thrush. The organism is already present inside the body and can be found in the throat, gut, mouth and vagina. It is harmless unless it overgrows and cause infections. It is creamy white in texture and appears on the tongue or inner cheeks. It is not major as a disease but it affects the weakened immune systems which is then difficult to control.
Types –
Candida infections in the mouth, throat, and esophagus
Vaginal Candidiasis
Invasive Candidiasis
CAUSES –
Overuse of antibiotics
Avoid intake of steroids
Birth control pills can affect vaginal infection
Obesity
Pregnancy can increase the level of estrogen giving rise to yeast infection
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
Oral thrush –White creamy patches inside the mouth, tongue, palate and around the lips too
Esophagitis –Difficulty in swallowing may also cause chest pain.
Cutaneous candidiasis –Appearance of red patches on warm, moist and weepy skin such as on armpits and groin
Vaginal yeast infections –Pain or itches on vaginal area, pain during sexual intercourse, burning sensation while urination, vaginal discharge
Deep Candidiasis –This is when candida spreads to blood stream which may result into fever and multiple organ failure.
DIAGNOSIS –
Physical examination
Microscope testing to detect the vaginal infection
Endoscope is an instrument which is inserted into the throat for examining the esophagus infection.
Blood sample to detect Candida Fungi
TREATMENT –
Antifungal medications and drugs
Antifungal powders and creams
Intravenous anti-fungal drug for deep candidiasis
PREVENTION –
Keep the skin neat, clean and dry
Healthy lifestyle and diet
Control blood sugar levels specifically for diabetic individuals
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
30-40% of adults and children are estimated to get affected from oral candidiasis.
75% of the females are affected with vaginal yeast infections in the western hemisphere.
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