Candidiasis is a disease caused by the presence of a fungus called candida, mainly by “candida albicans”. This infection can appear in the oral area, in the vaginal or intestinal area. According to studies, it is estimated that around 75% of women at some time in their life have suffered from candidiasis in the vaginal area.
The fungus known as candida albicans is found naturally and in small amounts on the skin, in the mouth and in the vagina, without causing any infection or symptoms. The problem arises when this fungus begins to multiply in an amount greater than normal, generating what is known as candidiasis.
There are several types of candidiasis:
Those that originate in the digestive system: esophageal (an inflammation arises that makes swallowing difficult, a sensation of pain and burning in the chest). Candida gastritis (usually manifested in patients with gastric ulcer) Candida anitis (causes irritation and itching in the anal area).
Candidiasic intertrigos: it is the one that commonly originates in areas such as the armpits, the groin, in the folds of the hands and feet.
Candidiasis in the reproductive system: Candida vulvovaginitis (it is caused by a variation in vaginal pH, causes itching and irritation in the vagina). Candida Balanitis (causes an infection in the area of the glans and the foreskin of the penis, producing ulcers that cause itching.
People prone to getting candidiasis are those with a weak immune system, as is the case with diabetics and those with AIDS, as well as people who take certain drugs such as antibiotics, immunosuppressants or corticosteroids. Pregnant women can also suffer from yeast infections.
The most common symptoms are: irritation, redness and itching, when present in the vaginal area, the flow vaginal may become whitish and crumbly. To diagnose it, a urine culture or cytological examination (in the case of women) is necessary.
Infection by candidiasis in the genitals, in both men and women, is often due to having sex without condoms. For not having good hygiene in that area. And in the case of women, when taking immersion baths, since they remain in a wet bathing suit for a long time, which favors the increase of the fungus.
To treat this disease, specialists recommend the application of topical antifungals such as clotrimazole or ketoconazole.
