Candidiasis is a disease that affects the skin, its appendages, as well as internal organs. It is caused by opportunistic fungi of the genus Candida. To date, the number of people suffering from these fungi is steadily growing, and the age range is expanding.
What is candidiasis: symptoms
The most common type of candidiasis is vaginal thrush. Otherwise - candidiasis genital. Statistics say that every third patient goes to the gynecologist precisely because of thrush. The disease can occur suddenly and just as suddenly it can reappear. Fungi that cause the disease live in the human body all the time, but are present in small quantities. The unhindered reproduction of the fungus is prevented by special beneficial bacteria. Thrush (candidiasis) is a consequence of a violation of the ratio of microbes. The weakening of the body's defenses leads to the reproduction of fungi, they become aggressive and can cause inflammation.
What is candidiasis in children and adults? It varies greatly: in children more oftenthe oral cavity suffers most, in adults - external (glans penis or foreskin - in men) and internal (vagina - in women) genital organs. The disease can also appear on smooth areas of the skin - where there are large folds: the inguinal region, under the mammary glands. In such cases, it is no longer called thrush.
The first sign of female candidiasis is not subsiding itching in the vagina and perineum, a burning sensation is possible. It can be painful and disturb peace and sleep. A white coating appears on the mucous membranes, curdled discharge with an unpleasant odor is observed. There may be pain and burning during urination, discomfort during intercourse. There may be redness of the external genitalia. I must say that men are less worried about the symptoms of thrush (due to the peculiarities of physiology).
Causes of disease
So, what is candidiasis - we discussed. Now let's look at why the mentioned ailment develops. Anything that reduces immunity can become a factor in its occurrence: infectious diseases, chronic alcohol and nicotine poisoning, anemia, hypovitaminosis and other pathological conditions. Often, drugs have a disastrous effect on beneficial microorganisms and promote the reproduction of fungi - in particular, antibiotics and corticosteroid drugs.cycle, use of hormonal contraceptives.
Damp, warm environments are great for Candida to thrive, so wearing synthetic underwear, especially in the summer heat, can also cause thrush.
Of course, many women know what candidiasis is, firsthand. But knowledge alone is not enough. It is important to understand that this is not such a harmless disease, moreover, it often relapses. By itself, thrush does not go away, and self-medication can lead to the opposite consequences - the addiction of fungi to drugs, and more and more exacerbations. Therefore, it is very important to contact a specialist in time, who will establish the causes of candidiasis and prescribe the correct treatment.
