Multiple types of germs can cause infections. When infections are caused by Candida, a type of yeast, they are known as candidiasis.
Candida naturally grows in many places within your body. It’s found on your skin and in your mouth, digestive system, vagina, or penis. Candidiasis infections occur when this yeast starts growing too quickly or travels to other parts of your body where it doesn’t normally grow.
Candidiasis is divided into types based on where in the body it occurs. This can lead to different symptoms:
In addition to yeast, you also have “good” bacteria on your skin and inside your body. These bacteria normally stop Candida albicans from becoming overgrown. However, candidiasis can occur if something kills too many of your healthy bacteria. Possible causes include:
You may be more likely to develop candidiasis if you have diabetes, smoke, wear dentures, use IVs or a catheter, or are pregnant. Babies also frequently develop candidiasis — Candida is a very common cause of diaper rash.
Because yeast is a form of fungus, candidiasis is treated with antifungal medications. These drugs kill the yeast cells. Depending on where your candidiasis occurs, antifungal medication may be:
Some antifungals can be bought without a prescription. However, certain types of antifungal medications are sometimes needed for certain types of fungus, so over-the-counter drugs don’t always work to treat your infection. Your doctor can determine the exact germ that is causing symptoms and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Candidiasis may take different lengths of time to treat depending on how severe your infection is. Mild cases may only require a couple of days of treatment, but it could take two weeks to recover from more aggressive cases. Don’t stop using your medication until your doctor tells you to, even if your symptoms go away. The infection could come back if it’s not fully treated.
Lowering your stress levels, practising good hygiene, and eating a healthy diet can lower your risk of candidiasis. Your risk of vaginal candidiasis decreases if you wear cotton underwear. Additionally, if you have other health conditions like diabetes, HIV, or cancer, properly managing these conditions may help you avoid infection.