Commonly known as the Yeast Infection
Candidiasis is an infection caused by Candida fungi, especially Candida Albicans. These fungi are found almost everywhere in the environment. Some may live harmlessly along with the abundant "native" species of bacteria that normally grow the mouth, gastrointestinal tract and vagina. Usually, Candida is kept under control by the native bacteria and by the body's immune defenses. If the native bacteria are decreased by antibiotics or if the person's immune system is weakened by illness (especially AIDS or diabetes), malnutrition, or certain medications, Candida fungi can multiply to cause symptoms. Candida infections can cause occasional symptoms in healthy people. Candidiasis can affect many parts of the body, causing localized infections or larger illness, …show more content…
For example:
Thrush: Thrush is a yeast infection found inside the mouth. Doctors treat this with a series of antifungal medications.
Esophagitis: Candida infections of the mouth that spread to the esophagus. It is treated with a chemical called ketoconazole.
Cutaneous Candidiasis: Candida infections of the skin, including diaper rash, in areas of skin that receive little ventilation and are unusually moist. Common sites are in the groin area and under the tips of fingernails. Antifungal powders and creams treat these infections.
Vaginal Yeast Infections: Frequent douching and use of birth control pills can cause this infection. To treat it, tablets can be taken, or creams and ointments can be directly applied to the vagina.
STD/STI?
Although Candidiasis can be transmitted sexually to the groin area and to the mouth, (through oral sex) it is most commonly caught who haven't necessarily had sex. It needs a particular environment for growth, and the vagina is ideal, and the male genital area is not.
When to Call a