Candidiasis: know the types and learn how to treat this infection

Being in good health is extremely important for us to be able to perform routine tasks. When exposed to factors that trigger certain types of health problems, the body tends to become weakened and experience unpleasant symptoms. One of these problems is candidiasis, an infection that usually affects women but can also develop in men.

The gynecologist Paula Bortolai Martins Araujo (CRM: 127.101), from the São Paulo Institute of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, explains the matter better. Next, she reads about the types, symptoms, ways of transmission, treatment and prevention of candidiasis.

what is candidiasis

According to Araujo, “candidiasis is an infection caused by a fungus that is present in the body of women in small amounts, without causing any symptoms. However, imbalances such as stress, low immunity, use of antibiotics and other environmental factors can cause their growth and, consequently, the emergence of infection.”

This fungus, called Candida Albicans, normally resides in the female genital area, but it can cause infection in other areas of the body, as we will see below:

types of candidiasis

• Vaginal candidiasis: develops in women with a weakened immune system or an unbalanced vaginal flora;
• Penile thrush: diabetes, weak immune system and poor local hygiene are the main factors that trigger thrush in men;
• Candidiasis on the skin: known as candidiasis intertrigo, it is a type of infection that can arise from friction between skins. In this way, the combination of heat and humidity favors the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. The most common places are: armpits, belly, neck, inner thighs, groin and under the breasts;
• Oral candidiasis: also called “thrush”, affects children, adults, elderly and diabetics. It is usually contracted through contact with someone who already has the infection, causing white lesions on the tongue or on the inside of the cheeks.
• Esophageal candidiasis: or esophageal candidiasis, is an infection that usually affects the elderly and people with low immunity.

Being aware of the symptoms of candidiasis and identifying it in advance is extremely important for its treatment. Learn more about the signs of infection:

Symptoms

• Itching, scaling and small cracks in the skin and mucous membranes;
• In the case of vaginal candidiasis, itching in the area, pain, redness, thick white discharge and plaque formation;
• Symptoms of penile candidiasis include sores, burning, swelling, itching, white discharge and a strong odor;
• White spots on the tongue and inside the mouth, pain, difficulty swallowing food, burning and redness are the main symptoms of oral thrush;
• Symptoms of esophageal candidiasis are nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and pain in the abdomen, chest, and when swallowing food.

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to see a doctor who can accurately diagnose the infection.

transmission of candidiasis

Araujo clarifies that candidiasis is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, since the fungus already exists in the vaginal flora. Therefore, transmission occurs through contact with injured skin or with the secretion caused by the infection.

“Candidiasis develops when there is an environment conducive to the growth of the fungus, especially when the place is humid and warm. The drop in protective microorganisms due to the use of antibiotics, genital and systemic infections, diabetes, HIV, chronic diseases and pregnancy also favor the emergence of the infection”, he adds.

Candidiasis: how to treat it

Candidiasis can be treated with medication or home remedies. Both can aid in curing and preventing infection. Know more:

with medicines

There are several medications for the proper treatment of candidiasis. Locally used antifungal and antimycotic ointments are usually the most recommended by doctors. Araujo indicates the main ones:

• fluconazole
• Itraconazole
• tioconazole
• miconazole
• nystatin
• isoconazole
• Clotrimazole
• ketoconazole
• Boric acid
• estradiol
• promestriene

It is important to point out that these medicines must be used under medical prescription. Self-medication performed to provide immediate relief from the symptoms of candidiasis can cause dangerous health side effects.

Take care of immunity and vaginal flora

Low immunity and imbalanced vaginal flora are factors that facilitate the development of candidiasis. Strengthening immunity through proper nutrition and sleeping without underwear to prevent the proliferation of fungi are some measures to fight infection.

sitz baths

Sitz baths with chamomile tea or baking soda are ideal for reducing vaginal itching and itching, providing immediate relief from the discomfort caused by candidiasis.

Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment

In addition to the traditional symptoms of candidiasis, such as irritation, itching and redness in the vaginal area, a woman with the infection may experience pain during sexual intercourse or even contaminate her partner if she does not use a condom. Therefore, it is recommended that the treatment be done completely without having sex.

Now that you know the main ways to treat candidiasis, with and without medication, check out the ways to prevent infection below.

Candidiasis prevention

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Candidiasis is a common infection in women’s lives, but it can be avoided by following a few simple tips:

• Keep the vagina area always dry and ventilated;
• Avoid contact with lycra, lace, jeans and other synthetic fabrics;
• Wear cotton panties;
• Sleep without underwear;
• Follow a healthy diet;
• Use condoms during sexual intercourse;
• Avoid continuous use of tampons;
• Do not smoke, do not drink and maintain medical monitoring to control chronic diseases.

As we have seen so far, the weakened immune system is one of the main gateways for the development of candidiasis. In this case, taking good care of your health, following the prevention tips above and maintaining a routine of consultations with a gynecologist are fundamental actions to avoid this infection and all the discomforts it brings.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.