Candidiasis is an infectious disease that affects the mucous membranes and skin. To one degree or another, 30 percent of humanity is subject to it. The disease has no gender and can be passed from mother to child during childbirth. In severe cases, the Candida yeast attacks the internal organs. It is also interesting that the presence of fungi in the body is not the cause of the disease. Only their uncontrolled reproduction or contact with the skin of especially infectious stamps can lead to unpleasant consequences.
How does candidiasis manifest itself?
Depending on the affected area, the disease can be of a different shape and proceed in a more or less severe form. The most common is skin candidiasis. First, small bubbles appear at the sites of infection, which burst and leave small ulcers on the body. Most often, they arise in the folds of the skin due to the favorable conditions for their development. High temperature and humidity are the most conducive to the spread of the fungus. Also, candidiasis affects:
stomach,
genitals,
intestines,
the mucous membrane of the mouth,
esophagus.
On the skin, the disease is accompanied by constant itching. As a result, the dermis becomes thinner, bursts, and becomes inflamed. In the mouth, candidiasis manifests itself in the form of a whitish plaque. If the disease affects the vagina, then the woman is haunted by constant itching and whitish discharge. Candidal balanoposthitis destroys the skin around the glans penis. If the intestinal microflora is disturbed, a person may experience pain, diarrhea, and discomfort.
Causes of occurrence
There are a number of factors that contribute to the spread of the disease. For example, if we are talking about candidiasis of the stomach, then in most cases it is preceded by atrophic gastritis. Chronic esophageal diseases or burns can also spread the fungus. Even a weakened immune system is a factor that provokes infection. Accordingly, HIV-infected people automatically fall into the risk group. Other risk factors include:
taking antibiotics,
stress,
climate change,
diabetes,
pregnancy.
Treatment
It is important to understand that getting rid of candidiasis completely is almost impossible. The only thing that remains for a person is to keep the disease under control. For this, there are many drugs that can be taken both orally and applied to damaged areas in the form of a cream, ointment, gel. In most cases, the doctor will prescribe antiviral drugs to the patient such as fluconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole.
Prophylaxis
Disease is better prevented than cured. Oddly enough, but simple rules of hygiene, air baths, the intake of yoghurts in food and cydophilic supplements help the body to restore normal microflora. The only exceptions are HIV-infected and diabetic patients. In this case, you will need specialized treatment prescribed by your doctor. You also need to take into account that candidiasis belongs to sexually transmitted diseases, which means that safety during intercourse should be above all.