Thrush occurs on the skin, mouth and genitals in both men and women. Symptoms of this common yeast infection include itching, soreness and white discharge.
Thrush is the name given to a range of fungal infections, usually caused by a microbe called Candida albicans. The medical term for these infections is “candidiasis.”
Causes of a Yeast Infection
Candida is an example of a yeast – a group of single-celled fungi that also includes the organisms used to make beer, wine and bread. It is present widely in the environment and is commonly found in small numbers both on and inside the human body, particularly on the skin and the genitals, and in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
This is perfectly normal, and in most people, for most of the time, Candida causes no problems. Its growth is kept in check by the body’s immune system and by the presence of “friendly” bacteria, the population of which vastly outnumbers that of the yeast
Problems can occur, however, when an upset in this balance leads to an increase in the Candida population, followed by the symptoms of thrush. Like all fungi, Candida grows best in places that are moist and dark, and anything that promotes these conditions may also lead to an episode of candidiasis.
Common triggers for thrush include:
- taking broad-spectrum antibiotics for a bacterial infection (these can also kill friendly bacteria, removing their check on Candida growth)
- wearing tight-fitting underwear made from synthetic fabrics that do not allow the genital area to “breathe”
- pregnancy (due to hormonal changes)
- a weakened immune system (people being treated for cancer or with HIV/AIDS are particularly susceptible to candidiasis)
- diabetes (high glucose levels and increased sweating can promote Candida growth)
- obesity (Candida may grow between rolls of skin)
- irritation of the genitals by soaps, bath products, sprays and other chemicals
- failure to wash the genital area regularly, or to dry thoroughly afterwards.
Although thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted disease, both men and women may sometimes develop symptoms after intercourse. In women, candidiasis is often due to irritation of the vagina during sex rather than transmission of an infection from their partner.
Yeast Infection Symptoms
The symptoms of thrush vary depending on the area affected.
- Oral thrush produces thick, creamy white patches on the tongue or the back of the throat. These patches can be scraped away, leaving a sore, reddened area beneath.
- In the condition known as angular cheilitis, Candida infection occurs in deep cracks at the corners of the mouth.
- Vaginal thrush causes itching and soreness of the vulva, along with a white discharge that can range from thin and watery, to the consistency of cottage cheese. Urination and intercourse may be painful.
- In penile thrush (also known as candida balanitis), the head of the penis becomes reddened, sore, itchy and swollen. Urination and intercourse are painful and a white discharge is sometimes seen under the foreskin, which may become difficult to pull back.
- Candida infections on the skin usually occur in places where two areas of skin come together, such as the groin, the armpits and between the fingers and toes. The symptoms are a sore, red, itchy rash that may become covered with a white, curd-like substance.
- Candida may begin to grow inside the body, a condition called invasive candidiasis. This infection spreads rapidly in the bloodstream and can be life-threatening. The initial symptoms are a high fever, nausea and headache. Those at risk of invasive candidiasis include people with a weakened immune system or diabetes, and renal dialysis patients.
Other forms of Candida infection include “diaper candidiasis” in babies and toddlers, perianal candidiasis, and candidal nail infection.
How to Cure Yeast Infection
Thrush is treated with antifungal drugs, many of which are available over the counter from pharmacies. When using such medications, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and to see a doctor if the problem does not clear up or any side effects occur. More serious Candida infections need prescription drugs, which in the most severe cases are given in hospital.
