Candidiasis (Yeast Infection): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Candida is a form of fungus that causes an illness known as candidiasis, commonly referred to as a Yeast Infection. Skin, mouth, vagina, throat, and other bodily parts may be impacted.

• Oral Thrush: Candida albicans overgrowth in the mouth and throat may lead to oral thrush, a kind of Yeast Infection that is caused by a yeast overgrowth. White spots may appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, and even the roof of the mouth in some people who have this condition.
• Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC): A Yeast Infection of the vulva and vagina is referred to as VVC.It is common in women of reproductive age but can occur at any age.
• Invasive Candidiasis: Candida fungus may cause a condition known as invasive candidiasis if they get into the circulation and then spread throughout the body.It can affect internal organs, including the lungs, liver, heart and brain.
• Cutaneous Candidiasis: Cutaneous candidiasis is a type of Yeast Infection that affects skin surfaces including arms, legs and trunk areas.

• Antibiotic use: The use of antibiotics may throw off the natural equilibrium of microorganisms in the body, which can lead to an overabundance of Candida albicans.
• Hormonal imbalance: Changes in hormone levels can disrupt the balance of bacteria and yeast, allowing for an overgrowth of Candida albicans.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to experience recurrent Yeast Infections because they have higher levels of sugar in their bodies, which provides food for the yeast to thrive on.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a Yeast Infection due to their inability to fight off the infection effectively.

• Itching or burning in the genitals: Yeast Infections cause a burning or itching sensation in the genital area, which can be quite uncomfortable.
• White, lumpy discharge: Yeast Infections cause a thick, white vaginal discharge that is usually odourless or has only a mild odour.
• Pain during intercourse: Since Yeast Infections cause inflammation and irritation, one of the most frequent symptoms of a Yeast Infection is that it makes sexual activity unpleasant or even painful.
• Redness and swelling in the genitals: Yeast Infections can cause redness and swelling in the genital area, as well as an itchy feeling.
• Painful urination: Urinating can be painful for those suffering from Yeast Infections due to inflammation caused by the infection.

• Practise good hygiene: To prevent Candidiasis, it is important to practise good hygiene, including frequent washing of hands and body parts that are prone to sweating, such as the groyne and armpits.Moreover, it is essential to maintain a clean and dry environment in the afflicted region.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing: When you wear clothing that is too tight for you, you may create an atmosphere that is warm and damp, which is ideal for the development of the Candida yeast.Loose-fitting clothing allows air to circulate more freely, reducing the risk of developing a Yeast Infection.
• Avoid certain products: Certain products, such as douches and scented feminine hygiene products, can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and may increase your risk of developing a Yeast Infection.
• Eat a balanced diet: Keeping Candida under control may be aided by maintaining a healthy diet rich in a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Consuming meals that are rich in sugar or refined carbohydrates might be one factor that contributes to the overgrowth of Candida yeast.
• Take probiotics: Probiotics may help restore balance in your digestive system by promoting beneficial bacteria growth in your gut which helps limit the growth of potentially harmful organisms like Candida yeast.

• Microscopic Examination: This is the most common test used to diagnose a Yeast Infection. It involves examining a sample of vaginal discharge under a microscope to look for the presence of yeast cells.
• Culture Test: A culture test is used to identify the type of fungus causing the infection and can help determine which treatment may be most effective. It involves taking a sample of vaginal discharge and culturing it in a lab dish.
• Vaginal pH Test: A vaginal pH test measures the acidity of the vagina, which can be an indicator of a Yeast Infection.
• KOH Test: In order to determine whether or not a given sample of vaginal discharge contains fungi, a KOH (potassium hydroxide) test is performed on the material. This test involves mixing a sample with potassium hydroxide, which causes any fungal elements present to dissolve, making them easier to identify under a microscope.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests may be ordered if an underlying condition such as diabetes or HIV is suspected as being responsible for recurring Yeast Infections, or if symptoms are severe and do not respond to treatment with antifungal medications.

• Discomfort: Candidiasis may produce painful symptoms in the afflicted region, including itching, burning, and redness in the skin.
• Spread of infection: In the event that the infection is not treated as soon as it is discovered, it has the potential to spread to other regions of the body, including the blood and the organs.
• Secondary infections: People with weakened immune systems may develop secondary infections due to candidiasis, such as bacterial vaginosis or urinary tract infections.
• Reduced fertility: In women, untreated candidiasis may make it more difficult to conceive a child or increase the likelihood that the child will be lost during pregnancy.
• Complications in newborns: If a pregnant woman has an untreated candidiasis infection, her baby may be born with thrush (a type of candidiasis that affects the mouth).

• Increase intake of probiotic foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut to help maintain the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
• Garlic, which has antifungal characteristics and may help you fight off Yeast Infections if you consume it, is an excellent choice.
• Drink neem tea, which has antifungal properties that can help reduce symptoms of candidiasis.
• Apply turmeric paste directly to the affected area for relief from itching and burning sensations.
• Consider taking an Ayurvedic supplement such as Amalaki or Guduchi, both of which have antifungal properties that can help combat candidiasis.
• Consume bitter herbs such as fenugreek, dandelion root, and gentian root to help cleanse the body of toxins associated with candidiasis and improve digestion.

• Yoghourt: Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria called probiotics, which can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and reduce yeast overgrowth. Consuming yoghurt that contains live cultures of Lactobacillus acidophilus may both help avoid candidiasis and cure it if it has already developed.
• Garlic: Since it is high in antioxidants and contains qualities that make it antifungal as well as antibacterial, garlic is an excellent natural treatment for candidiasis that can be done at home.It helps inhibit the growth of Candida albicans in the gut and helps kill off existing yeast overgrowth.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is rich in caprylic acid, which has antifungal properties that can help kill off yeast in the body. To help ward against illness, it may be ingested or administered topically to the afflicted regions.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a natural antifungal that helps balance out the pH levels in your body, which helps prevent yeast overgrowth.To assist lessen illness symptoms, it may be ingested or used topically as a douche or rinse.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are good bacteria that may help your gut microbiome regain equilibrium, which lowers the development of Candida. Taking probiotic supplements or eating probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi may help reduce symptoms of candidiasis and prevent future infections.
• Bone Broth: Bone broth is rich in minerals and amino acids that may help fight Candida overgrowth in the body by restoring balance to your gut microbiome and reducing inflammation caused by yeast overgrowth. Consuming bone broth regularly may also help boost your immune system to better fight off infection

• Sugary Foods: Foods high in sugar, such as candy, cookies, cake, and other desserts, should be avoided while dealing with Candidiasis.
• Refined Carbs: White flour products, such as white bread and white pasta are refined carbs that can increase the risk of Candidiasis.
• Alcohol: Alcohol should also be avoided as it can disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut and increase the risk of Candidiasis.
• High-Fiber Foods: High-fibre foods such as beans, nuts, and seeds can irritate the gut and may make Candidiasis worse.
• Fermented Foods: Fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut should also be avoided as they contain yeast that may worsen the infection.

• Removal of excess yeast: If a person has a severe infection, they may need to have excess yeast surgically removed from their body.
• Surgical drainage of abscesses: If a person has an abscess caused by Candidiasis, they may need to have it drained surgically.
• Surgical debridement: This procedure involves removing dead tissue and cutting away damaged tissue from the affected area in order to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Generally, the first step is to visit your primary care physician (PCP) for an initial evaluation and diagnosis.

Your PCP may then refer you to an infectious disease specialist, gynaecologist, or dermatologist for further evaluation and specialised treatment.

• Azole antifungals: These drugs, such as fluconazole, ketoconazole, and clotrimazole, work by inhibiting the growth of the fungi that cause Yeast Infections.
• Polyene antifungals: This type of drug, such as amphotericin B and nystatin, works by binding to the yeast cell membrane and destroying it.
• Echinocandins: These drugs, such as caspofungin and micafungin, work by blocking a crucial step in fungal cell wall formation.
• Topical antifungal creams: To eliminate the fungus and treat symptoms, these lotions are administered directly to the region in question.Examples include miconazole, clotrimazole, terbinafine, and nystatin.
• Oral antifungal pills: These pills are taken by mouth to treat systemic Yeast Infections. Examples include fluconazole and itraconazole.
• Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can help restore balance to your gut bacteria and prevent future Yeast Infections.

The length of time it takes to recover from Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) will vary depending on the severity of the infection, but typically ranges from a few days to several weeks.

No, the results of treatment for candidiasis are not permanent. In rare circumstances, dietary adjustments and enhanced cleanliness may be required to stop further infections.

• Patients should maintain excellent oral hygiene and avoid high-sugar and high-carb diets to prevent recurrence of candidiasis.
• Antifungal medications should be taken as directed by the doctor to clear the infection completely.
• Probiotics can be used to restore the body’s natural balance of beneficial bacteria after treatment with antifungal medications.
• To reduce risk of recurrence, it is important to practise good hygiene and limit contact with people who have active infections.
• Avoiding tight clothing and undergarments that trap moisture can also help reduce risk of recurrence.
• Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush out toxins from the body while also boosting immunity against fungal infections.

Generally, over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments are available for Rs. 50 to Rs. 200. Prescription medications such as tablets and creams may cost anywhere from Rs. 300 to Rs. 1000 per course of treatment, depending on the brand and dosage.

In some cases, intravenous medications may be required, which can cost up to Rs. 5,000 per dose.

Common side effects of antifungal medications used to treat Candidiasis include:-

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Diarrhoea
• Allergic reactions such as rash, hives, or itching
• Long-term use of antifungals may cause liver damage, kidney damage, and other serious health issues.
• Oral antifungal medications may interact with certain drugs such as antibiotics, birth control pills, or blood thinners. This can cause potentially dangerous side effects.
• Topical antifungal creams and ointments can cause skin irritation or burning at the application site.

See a doctor in your area if you are experiencing any consequences related to candidiasis (Yeast Infection), since they might include 'infection, infertility,' and the length of the therapy will depend on how severe the problem is.