Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of a type of yeast that lives on your body called Candida albicans.
Every one of us have candida on the skin and parts like the mouth, throat, gut, vagina and the penis sheath/covering in the uncircumcised men.
Candida only causes infections and symptoms if it grows out of control.
Who is at risk of getting candidiasis?
Any condition that weaknes someone’s body immunity ( defence) is most likely to get it e.g:
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Diseases: Cancer , diabetes, HIV/AIDS
- Babies
- Elderly people
- Medicines: over use of antibiotics, steroids and chemotherapy
Symptoms: Depend on the part of the body affected
The symptoms of vaginal candidiasis include:
- Vaginal itching or soreness
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Abnormal vaginal discharge looking like spoilt milk
Candidiasis in the mouth and throat can have many different symptoms, including:
- White patches on inner cheeks, tongue, roof of the mouth, and throat.
- Redness or soreness
- Cotton-like feeling in the mouth
- Loss of taste
- Pain while eating or swallowing
- Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth
Symptoms of candidiasis of the oesophagus include pain and difficulty swallowing. Most people who get candidiasis of the oesophagus also have mouth and throat infections.
Prevention tips of candidiasis
Only take antibiotics or corticosteroids as prescribed by a healthcare provider and take them exactly as directed.
For vaginal candidiasis:
· Wear cotton underwear.
Wear breathable clothing (not too tight).
Keep the area clean and dry.
for mouth and throat candidiasis
Good oral health helps prevent candidiasis in the mouth, throat, and oesophagus.
Treatment
If you suspect this disease, visit a health care provider nearest to you.
