Candidiasis (Thrush)

Overview:

Also commonly known as thrush or moniliasis, Candidiasis is a common infection caused by a fungus, most commonly Candida albicans.

The fungus is naturally occurring & is commonly present on our bodies without showing any ill effects, as our immune system & other fauna (such as bacteria) keeps it under control. However, in some cases the fungus begins go grow unchecked. This occurs for a variety of reasons including illness, pregnancy, diabetes, medications such as antibiotics or the pill, people with dentures, weakened immune system (immunosuppressive drugs, HIV, cancer treatment etc).

The fungus can affect many parts of the body, most commonly the mouth & vagina. Other areas include nipples (passed on to mothers via their nursing babies), esophagus (known as esophagitis), which is the tube leading from the back of the mouth to the stomach, skin folds such as under the breasts, armpits, groin & in rare cases the fungus can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic candiadiasis, which is life threatening.

Thrush symptoms:

Symptoms vary depending on the area of infection, warm, moist areas are commonly affected.

Oral (oral candidiasis/thrush):

• Thick, white to cream coloured, curd like patches in the mouth. The outer edges may appear red & inflamed.  
• Burning & pain in the mouth.
• Sore throat.
• Oral thrush is a common in babies. Babies can easily spread the infection to their mother’s nipples during nursing. Babies may also have a nappy rash that doesn’t resolve.

Esophagus (Candida esophagitis):

• Difficulty/pain swallowing.
• Chest pain.
• Nausea.

Vaginal (Candidal vaginitis):

• White to creamy discharge that is odourless.
• Itching, burning & discomfort.

Skin (Cutaneous candidiasis):

• Skin lesions or rash.
• Redness.
• Itching.
• Burning sensation.

Diagnosis if thrush:

Most cases of candidiasis are diagnosed based on physical appearance & symptoms. Tests your doctor may wish to perform include;

• Skin scrapings.
• Vaginal swab.
• Blood & urine tests.

Thrush treatment:

• Topical  antifungal creams. These are applied directly onto the affected area.
• Suppositories are often used to treat Candidal vaginitis.
• Systemic antifungals (oral medications). Are used in cases that fail to respond to topical antifungal creams or suppositories or if the infection has spread to the throat or other parts of the body cream can’t be readily applied to.
• Good hygiene is also important and careful/thorough drying.
• Avoid sugar & excess alcohol.
• Eat yoghurt as this contains helpful bacteria.