Infection caused by microscopic fungi or yeast is called candidiasis. Candidiasis is named after the species of yeast called Candida. There are about 20 species of Candida, the most common being Candida albicans.
Candidiasis is an umbrella term that is used for wide range of infections that range from superficial infections to potentially life-threatening diseases. In this article we explain how candidiasis manifests in the body. In other words what are the symptoms of the disease.
Symptoms of Candidial Infections:
On Skin:
On skin the signs of infection appears as redness, itching and discomfort. The skin appears as a red flat rash with sharp scalloped edges. The smaller patches that appear like rash, which are called “satellite lesions.” They cause pain and itching.
In Mouth:
Mucosal membranes of oral cavity (thrush), the pharynx and esophagus are effected. Thick, white patches that are formed on a red base are seen on tongue, palate and other parts of the mouth.
Internal Organs:
People with weakened immune systems experience internal organs pain and dysfunction. About 85% of people with AIDS have esophagitis in upper gastrointestinal system. This infection extends down from the mouth to the esophagus and stomach. They have multiple problems like stomach ulcers and malabsorbtion.
Children:
Children with yeast infections have white patches around the mouth. Mostly children between 3 and 9 years of age are infected with candidiasis.
Genitals:
Candidial infections causes vaginal problems in women. They have a white cheesy discharge that irritates the vagina and surrounding tissues. They experience pain with sexual intercourse and have burning sensation with urination.
Similarly, in men candidial infections cause several symptoms in male genitalia. Red patchy sores are seen near the head of the penis or on the foreskin. They experience severe itching and burning sensation. They experience a white discharge from penis, but it is not that common.
