Amazingly, a disease such as thrush occurs in every third woman. There are plenty of reasons for this, this very unpleasant disease can occur even due to severe stress, swimming in the pool. It is very difficult to protect yourself from thrush, but if the first symptoms have already arisen, then you need to immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe treatment not only for you, but also for your sexual partner, this insidious disease can affect both the body of women and men.
Before treating any disease, you need to be sure that the diagnosis is correct. As you know, the symptoms of thrush are vaginal discharge of a curd consistency, itching in the vagina and discomfort during intercourse. But some of these signs indicate other sexually transmitted diseases, therefore, before starting self-medication, you need to be thoroughly examined so as not to harm your own body. Remember, if you are not sure about the correctness of the diagnosis, do not take up the treatment of the disease!
In the early stages, thrush can be treated by restoring the vaginal ecosystem. No wonder thrush has a scientific name - vaginal dysbiosis, this disease almost completely destroys the microflora of the vagina. To get rid of thrush in its early stages, you need to restore the vaginal epithelium and microflora. For this, doctors prescribe the simultaneous use of estriol and lactobacilli, their combination is the only way to restore the natural protection of the vagina.
As for the later stages of thrush, they certainly require the use of antibiotics. Only after treatment with antibiotic drugs that the doctor prescribes individually, you can proceed to the restoration of the vaginal microflora. At the same time, do not forget that both partners must be treated without fail, otherwise there will be no effect. It is almost impossible to independently determine at what stage the disease is, therefore, a visit to the doctor in this case is mandatory. Remember, by running thrush, you can run the risk of further infertility, problems with future pregnancy and childbirth, the occurrence of more serious, life-threatening diseases.
Types of drugs for the treatment of thrush
To date, there are a lot of drugs for the treatment of thrush. They can be used both separately and exclusively in combination with other drugs, exerting the effect of a complex treatment.
In general, there are four groups of medicines that eliminate vaginal dysbiosis:
- oral antifungal pills:
- antifungal suppositories, vaginal tablets and topical creams that require insertion into the vagina;
- antimicrobial suppositories and topical tablets;
- combined drugs for the treatment of thrush by introducing them into the vagina.
The most popular drugs with the highest effect are local antifungal drugs. Due to their high efficiency, fast action and absolute safety for the female body, they are highly popular.
How to get rid of the early stage of thrush at home
There are several simple, harmless and at the same time effective ways to get rid of vaginal dysbiosis at its earliest stages:
- Compliance with intimate hygiene is the surest way to success in the fight against thrush. Due to the fact that for this disease a humid and warm environment is the best environment for development, you need to wear linen exclusively from natural fabrics, make sure that it is always dry and clean.
- It is necessary to exclude the use of foam baths, the use of pads with fragrances.
- It is very important to exclude as much as possible from your diet sweet, flour and alcoholic and carbonated drinks. At the same time, it is simply necessary to include live yoghurts with probiotics and bio-kefir in the daily diet.
- In the early stages, douching with a weak solution of soda at the rate of 1 teaspoon of soda in 500 ml of boiled water can help.
But what about men to deal with thrush?
Thrush in men, of course, is much less common than in women. If it is treated in the early stages of development, then the treatment process will take no more than a week. But delaying a visit to a dermatologist or urologist, treatment will undoubtedly be more difficult, painful and time-consuming. Men should get rid of thrush strictly on the recommendation of a doctor. As a rule, in such cases, the application of a special antifungal ointment to the affected area is prescribed twice a day. This is enough to fix this problem. The only inconvenience is that for the duration of treatment, partners will have to temporarily abandon the delights of intimate life.
Recently, thrush in women is a widespread disease that quickly becomes chronic. This is due to improper non-professional treatment. The widespread occurrence of the disease is associated with various hormonal disorders and self-treatment of various diseases using potent antibacterial agents.
You should know that thrush in women is a highly contact infectious disease that can be transmitted not only during intercourse to a man, but also to family members using shared household items. During pregnancy and childbirth, thrush often affects the fetus and newborn baby. In children, this can appear immediately after birth or after some time in the form of stomatitis.
Causes of the disease in modern women
First of all, it is worth clarifying that thrush is caused by fungi of the genus Candida. They belong to the conditionally pathogenic microflora of the vagina. These microorganisms are responsible for the production of lactic acid, which helps to maintain the bacterial purity of the vagina in a physiological state. When the balance of the body's defenses is disturbed, the conditionally pathogenic microflora mutates into aggressive species. This is the starting point for the development of thrush in women.
This happens only against the background of a weakening of immunity, a decrease in the level of natural defense with the help of normal microflora.
In this regard, the main causes of thrush in women can be identified:
- non-observance of personal hygiene of the genitals;
- misuse of modern antibiotics without a doctor's prescription;
- abuse of contraceptives with antibacterial properties;
- stressful situations, busy work schedule;
- promiscuous sex life;
- decrease in the level of immune defense.
Disturbed ecological situation, emissions of harmful compounds into the airspace of megalopolises, malnutrition, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are of no less importance. In every second case, thrush in women is associated with chronic intestinal dysbiosis.
The first signs of infection
Distinguishing the first signs of thrush is difficult enough. As a rule, at the first stage of the development of the disease, symptoms are absent, or erased. But with a careful attitude to your body, it is still fashionable to distinguish the signs of thrush. So, most often it is worth paying attention to any changes in vaginal discharge. if you begin to be bothered by discharge even in a small amount and they have a whitish color, then immediately take a smear for analysis. at an early stage, thrush can be treated much more effectively.
Very often, the first signs of thrush in women appear in the form of cystitis. The urethra is primarily affected by fungi. This causes increased urination, burning, and pain after the act of urinating. In this case, the severity of the lower abdomen may not be observed. In this case, urethritis is diagnosed.
In the future, an unpleasant sour smell may join, an increase in vaginal discharge.
Clinical presentation and symptoms
The clinical picture of thrush in women develops within 2-5 days. Symptoms increase gradually. By the 3rd day, severe itching develops in the area of the outer labia, swelling, hyperemia. Vaginal discharge is abundant and thick. They resemble curdled milk in appearance. This is the mycelium of the fungus. At this stage, the disease is especially dangerous for the infection of others.
In the chronic course of the disease, symptoms of thrush occur periodically. This usually happens a few days before your period starts. Symptoms of thrush in women in this case disturb during the entire period and disappear on their own after it ends. Such exacerbations may not appear in every menstrual cycle, but only in those cases when a woman has ovulated. In this case, the symptoms of thrush can be especially acute and accompanied by swelling of the legs, eyelids and a set of extra pounds due to fluid stagnation.
Diagnosis of the disease in a clinical setting
To diagnose thrush in women, a vaginal smear test is used. In the laboratory, the composition of mucus is determined, epithelial cells, leukocytes, and candida fungus are isolated.
With thrush in women, taking a smear from the vagina is performed in a polyclinic. For this, several samples of material are taken from various parts of the vagina. For reliable diagnosis, mucus should also be taken from the cervix.
An increase in leukocytes and the number of epithelial cells indicates that an inflammatory process occurs in the pelvic region. Candida fungus is not normally detected.
Treatment
For the treatment of thrush in women, it is necessary to use modern antifungal agents. But this only leads to sterilization of the vaginal microflora. Comprehensive treatment of thrush is aimed at:
- destruction of pathogenic microflora of the vagina;
- development of a normal microform of the vagina;
- restoration of the immune defense system;
- elimination of associated inflammatory diseases.
Thrush is treated simultaneously in both sexual partners. During therapy, sexual intercourse is prohibited. A thorough toilet of the genitals is recommended several times a day.
Of the drugs, it is recommended to use Diflucan, Pimafucin, Terzhinan and others. These drugs are available in the form of suppositories, creams, and tablets. The doctor determines the optimal form of the drug and the duration of its use. During treatment, a vaginal smear is periodically analyzed.
To prevent relapses, it is important to normalize the intestinal microflora, strengthen the immune system. A large woman must be prescribed long-term vitamin therapy. Shown sanatorium treatment. It is also necessary to normalize your diet, work and rest. It is important to reduce the psychological emotional stress.
How to treat thrush at home and is it worth doing?
Very often, women are embarrassed to see a doctor for help when thrush is found. They are trying to treat the disease at home using dubious methods and means. This is not worth doing.
Remember
- douching with soda solutions causes a burn to the vagina and can provoke erosion of the cervix;
- you can infect your children and husband with thrush;
- thrush does not go away at the same time from taking 1 tablet of Diflucan;
- periodic exacerbations of thrush can be ruled out if you see your doctor.
Thrush in women is not a sexually transmitted disease. It rarely occurs due to sexual transmission. Feel free to tell your sex partner that you have thrush and that you need to be treated together. If you have psychological problems, see your doctor together with your spouse. The specialist will explain to him the nature of thrush in women.
The stages of development of thrush are the sequential unfolding of symptoms of candidiasis, which make it possible to suspect the disease.
Each disease has its own specific and nonspecific signs, which more and more manifest themselves in the event that treatment is not started on time. The causative agent of thrush is a fungus from the genus Candida, which uses lactic acid bacteria of the vaginal environment and glucose decomposition products for nutrition.
This disease is familiar to almost every woman. If it does not appear during the normal life of a woman, then during pregnancy it definitely manifests itself in one way or another. A woman almost every visit is examined by a gynecologist, part of which is the collection of a smear on the flora.
Stages
An increase in the number of candida does not always lead to their active reproduction, which should be avoided.
The signs of thrush are as follows:
- itching in the genital area, which leads to scratching of the genitals;
- change in discharge from the genital tract, they become cheesy, abundant;
- discharge takes on a smell;
- pain when urinating;
- pain during intercourse;
- there may be pain in the lower abdomen of an aching periodic nature;
- on examination, swelling of the mucous membrane, labia is determined.
There are several forms of candidiasis: if it manifests itself in isolated cases, then it is acute, although the term "acute thrush" in the scientific sense does not exist. However, with frequent exacerbations, a recurrent form occurs, in which the manifestations are not so acute, but some symptoms are permanent.
For example, pain during urination and during sexual intercourse will be constant, but less pronounced in the period between exacerbations. With exacerbations, the discharge intensifies, itching appears, but it is not as pronounced as with the first-onset thrush.
The stages of thrush depend on the degree of onset of symptoms. It depends on the form of the presence of the fungus in the body, which is characteristic of a given woman.
Clinically, the following forms of pathology are distinguished:
- Carriage of candidiasis, when a woman feels comfortable, but when examining a smear, an increased amount of fungal flora is found. At the same time, no symptoms of thrush manifest themselves. This form usually leads to the fact that the multiplication of the fungus begins quickly under the influence of the created favorable conditions.
- The second form is the active reproduction of the fungus. Itching is the first symptom that begins to manifest itself. After that, the woman pays attention to the discharge, and then to all other signs.
- A factor in the onset of thrush is a decrease in immunity, there can be many reasons for this: illness, and taking antibiotics and other drugs, and pregnancy, etc. Therefore, candidiasis can worsen with varying frequency when favorable conditions arise. In this case, they talk about chronic, or recurrent candidiasis. The manifestations of this form of thrush are less pronounced, some of them persist all the time.
Men can also develop thrush, for reasons common to both sexes, as well as after contact with a woman with candidiasis.
Therefore, when treating a woman, it is important to treat a man in order to prevent her re-infection after treatment and transmission of the infection to her partner.
A feature of candidiasis in a man is that the signs of thrush are not so pronounced.
The stages of thrush are defined as follows:
- The initial stage, when the symptoms are just beginning to unfold, the fungus affects all mucous membranes.
- At the second stage, there is a transition to the chronic course of the process, when additional symptoms are added that were not previously associated with candidiasis. The reproduction of the pathogen can suppress the immune system in itself, and also affect the metabolism.
- At stage 3, there is a deterioration in the condition, the addition of neurological symptoms: muscle twitching, mood swings and depressive conditions, signs of epilepsy. This is intoxication caused by the multiplication of the fungus.
- Systemic thrush - when several structures of the body are damaged at once, affecting the internal organs.
- Generalization of the infection, that is, the transmission of the pathogen through the blood, which leads to the seeding of organs with a fungus. This can even lead to the death of the patient, since it is very difficult to find a therapeutic therapy that would have such a complex effect.
Not in all cases there is a transition of infection from stage 1 to stage 5, however, it must be borne in mind that refusal of treatment can lead to very unpleasant consequences.
Thrush is an infectious disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida. The medical name for this disease, which has the ICD-10 code B37, is candidiasis. The vast majority of women of different ages have encountered thrush more than once in their lives. Such a disease significantly complicates life, introduces serious discomfort, and in advanced stages leads to severe complications and negative consequences. What is thrush? How does this disease occur? What are the reasons for its development? What methods of treating the disease are there? Answers to these and many other questions can be found in the proposed article.
What is thrush
This name was given to the fungal infection because of the white curdled plaque, which most often occurs on the genitals of women. However, this disease can develop in men, children, and even newborns.
Despite the fact that with thrush, the mucous membranes of the vagina or the male genital organs are most often affected, this is not a sexually transmitted disease. Although there are ways of transmitting it sexually, they are quite rare compared to other causes that provoke the onset of this disease. At the same time, thrush can be successfully called one of the most popular gynecological diseases.
The causative agent of the disease is the yeast-like fungus Candida, which is considered conditionally pathogenic. In the normal state of the body, such fungi are found in small quantities in the rectum, on the mucous membranes of the genitals and in the oral cavity. However, with various deviations caused by certain factors, a significant growth of such microflora occurs, which leads to the onset of the development of the disease.
In some cases, thrush is quite difficult to diagnose, because in addition to the characteristic flakes of curdled plaque, it no longer manifests itself in the female body. In such cases, women rarely go to a doctor, unaware that the disease is progressing and may become chronic. In men, in general, thrush can often develop internally, manifesting itself on the genitals only superficially, since the structure of the male penis does not contribute to the fixation of fungi. Thus, a man may be a hidden carrier of the infection and not even suspect about it.
Types and classification of the disease
Such a disease is of several types, differing not only in the place of localization, but also in severity, as well as in gender.
Depending on the stage of development of the disease, the following types of thrush are distinguished: candidiasis, acute or chronic form.
In turn, acute thrush can be:
- adhesive - the attachment of microorganisms to the surface of the mucous membranes;
- colonized, when there is a rapid increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms;
- invasive, when the yeast-like microflora penetrates into the deep layers of the skin and provokes the occurrence of pathological changes in the affected area.
Launched thrush almost always turns into a chronic stage, which is classified into:
- persistent, or sluggish;
- recurrent, accompanied by systematic outbreaks of the disease.
According to the degree of penetration, the disease is:
- superficial or external, affecting the skin and mucous membranes, as well as the nail plates;
- systemic, affecting the deeper layers of the epithelium and penetrating into the internal organs, in most cases of the digestive and respiratory systems;
- septic, penetrating into the circulatory system and affecting almost all internal organs and systems of the human body.
According to the place of localization, they are distinguished:
- thrush of the skin, which include: seizure, nail damage;
- interdigital thrush, candidiasis of smooth skin areas;
- thrush of the oral cavity, localized on the lips, corners of the mouth, mucous membrane, tonsils and pharynx;
- internal candidiasis or visceral candidiasis that affects the eyes, ears, lungs, esophagus, stomach, intestines and even the brain;
- candidiasis of the genitourinary organs.
Various variants of the disease can be seen in the photo.
Varieties of female and male infections
Women most often have:
- vaginal candidiasis, occurs on the labia and in the vagina;
- candidiasis of the cervix, most often affects pregnant women;
- candidiasis of the mammary glands, occurs on the nipples and nipple circumference during breastfeeding.
Female thrush usually affects the vagina and vulva. In more advanced stages, the disease penetrates deeper, affecting the ovaries and cervix.
Male thrush is called urogenital candidiasis and affects the genitourinary organs. Most often it is localized on the glans penis and is characterized by inflammation of the glans and foreskin of the penis, which medicine defines as balanoposthitis.
On the Internet, you can find such a type of disease as genital candidiasis. However, this is nothing more than another type of disease, erroneously and incorrectly named. Such a disease as genital candidiasis does not exist in nature.
Oral candidiasis
Oral thrush is a condition that affects the mouth and mucous membranes of the mouth. With this disease, white plaque concentrates in the mouth, lips, gums and palate. The pharynx and tonsils are also affected. Most often, children suffer from this disease, especially those under the age of one.
Oral thrush in infants can develop due to many reasons: infection from the mother during childbirth, weak immunity, long-term antibiotic treatment, and others. The disease in boys and girls from two to ten years old occurs mainly due to the fact that they often pull dirty hands and objects into their mouths.
Pediatric thrush usually proceeds easily, practically without disturbing the baby. However, in any case, at the first symptoms of the disease, the child should be shown to the pediatrician, because it can go into a more severe stage, which is characterized by fever, anxiety and sleep disturbance.
Oral candidiasis in adults is very rare and difficult to treat.
Anal candidiasis
Anal thrush is a disease that is localized in the anus.
This type of candidiasis is characterized by:
- the presence of a whitish plaque in the anus and on the feces;
- pain in the anus during the act of defecation;
- discharge of feces with blood.
Often this disease develops against the background of rectal candidiasis. Usually, rectal thrush occurs in children, manifested by redness and plaque on the bottom, which causes discomfort and pain when moving. It becomes difficult to sit and walk. But it can also develop in a teenager and an adult, especially if there are problems with the immune system, hygiene or nutrition.
Usually, such a disease is rather quickly and easily treated with a timely visit to a doctor. When diagnosing, a specialist takes a smear from the surface of the patient's anus, which allows you to accurately identify the culture of the fungus. After that, effective treatment is prescribed, which leads to a speedy recovery.
Thrush of the skin and nails
Such a disease is a rare phenomenon, usually arising as a result of exposure to the human body of endogenous or exogenous factors.
It can be:
- exposure to the skin of chemicals;
- mechanical damage to the skin and nails;
- the age of the patient;
- some diseases;
- severe depletion of the body.
Such thrush is manifested by reddening of the skin, the appearance of a rash on the skin, as well as swelling and maceration. As a rule, the disease begins with large folds of the skin: in the armpits, in the groin, between the buttocks, in the area of the mammary glands.
Candidiasis of the skin on the hands between the fingers is also common, especially in preschool children and agricultural workers. Vaginal or genital candidiasis can also cause genital thrush, characterized by redness and a rash on the penis or lips (genitals). Most often, such a rash looks like edematous erythematous spots, pustules or papules, when opened, weeping erosion is formed.
Facial candidiasis is rare and very difficult to treat. It is characterized by a small, bright red rash with well-defined papules, located mainly in the region of the lips.
In infants, diaper candidiasis often develops in the infant's perineum. There are also such types of cutaneous thrush as bandage candidiasis and candidal folliculitis.
Thrush of the gastrointestinal tract
Thrush of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as candidiasis of internal organs in general, is a very serious disease that occurs against the background of a strong suppression of the body's immune system. Also, this disease can develop with improper or insufficient treatment of fungal infections of the mucous membranes. In such cases, the causative agents of thrush penetrate the systemic circulation and are carried with the blood to all internal organs of a person. Most often this occurs with long-term self-treatment of genital candidiasis, which only significantly aggravates the situation and leads to the development of such a serious disease as candidiasis of the internal organs. The most common is thrush of the gastrointestinal tract: candidiasis of the stomach, esophagus and intestines.
The symptoms of this disease are:
- frequent nausea with bouts of vomiting;
- painful sensations in the epigastric region;
- decrease and complete loss of appetite;
- flatulence;
- general weakness of the body;
- decreased performance;
- diarrhea and other disorders of the digestive system.
With thrush of the esophagus, the patient often complains of difficulty swallowing, chest pain after eating, nausea and vomiting. With esophagoscopy, you can find a whitish film of curdled plaque on the walls of the esophageal mucosa.
Thrush of the stomach has a description and symptoms quite similar to gastritis. The patient suffers from constant nausea and vomiting, lack of appetite, pain in the abdomen. When examining vomit, a specialist can recognize particles of fungal elements, as well as a white curd film.
Intestinal candidiasis most often occurs in young children, especially while taking antibacterial drugs. Also susceptible to this disease are women during pregnancy, the elderly, people suffering from diabetes, HIV infection. Often the causes of candidiasis of internal organs are also long-term use of hormonal drugs, constant stressful conditions and the presence of bad habits.
Such thrush is dangerous in that in advanced stages it can lead to serious and severe complications: internal bleeding, perforation of the intestine or stomach, fungal sepsis.
In especially severe cases with invasive forms, thrush of the gastrointestinal tract is fatal.
Other types of thrush of the internal organs include candidiasis of the ears and eyes, as well as thrush in the nose.
Causes of thrush
Thrush is not a sexually transmitted disease, as many believe, which means that it is not sexually transmitted. Cases of the onset of the disease during sexual intercourse are very rare and, as a rule, other causes and circumstances must accompany this. In addition, very often this disease occurs in virgins who do not live an intimate life. Such a disease develops due to various factors that lead to a change in the microflora of the mucous membranes.
The main reason for the onset and development of thrush is a sharp decrease in immunity.
Other factors leading to this disease are:
- diabetes mellitus or other chronic diseases;
- antibiotic therapy;
- taking hormonal contraceptives;
- frequent visits to pools and other bodies of water;
- non-observance of intimate hygiene, wearing wet underwear;
- exposure to stress;
- excessive passion for sweets;
- the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, including latent infections;
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- changing of the climate.
Although thrush is not a sexually transmitted disease, it is quite contagious and can be transmitted from a husband or wife, both sexually and in various household ways: by airborne droplets, by direct contact with a carrier of the disease, using objects infected with the fungus.
Often, this disease is transmitted from mother to child during childbirth, when the baby passes through the birth canal.
Also, the reasons for the development of candidiasis include:
- wearing synthetic and uncomfortable underwear;
- the use of perfumed personal hygiene items;
- a tendency to allergic reactions and more.
After eliminating the cause that caused the growth of yeast-like fungi, thrush goes away on its own. However, it is not possible to independently determine this reason. Therefore, if one partner has infected another, and the first signs of such a disease appear, it is necessary to contact a specialist as soon as possible, who will prescribe the necessary diagnostic tests and professional treatment.
Symptoms of the disease
Both sexes are susceptible to such an unpleasant disease, and therefore the symptoms of the disease must be considered for each sex separately.
In girls and women, the characteristic signs of such a disease are:
- profuse vaginal discharge with white cheesy flakes, as a result of which the disease is often called curd thrush;
- burning and itching in the external genital area and vagina, aggravated at night or during water procedures;
- sour smell of discharge;
- a feeling of soreness and discomfort in the genitals, as well as when urinating;
- painful intercourse;
- redness of the labia, irritation and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina;
- swelling of the genitals.
It is extremely rare for girls with such a disease to have lower abdominal pain.
Often, thrush in women can have several mild symptoms or just one of the above signs. Moreover, the onset of menstruation can cause the symptoms of thrush to disappear. This is due to the fact that during this period an alkaline environment develops in the vagina, in which this fungus dies. But at the end of the menstrual cycle, thrush also returns, but with brighter symptoms, which has passed into a chronic phase.
In addition, there is the so-called bloody or bloody thrush, in which the discharge changes its color to pink, scarlet and even brown. This may be due to the onset of the menstrual cycle, the development of pregnancy, or various diseases such as erosion of the cervix.
In guys and men, this disease is localized on the head of the penis and is characterized by the following clinical manifestations:
- thick white coating on the penis;
- redness and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the penis;
- painful sensations during intercourse;
- pain when urinating;
- swelling and swelling of the glans penis;
- red rash on the body in the groin area.
Such symptoms intensify at night and in the evening, during sleep, and also when washing in a warm place.
The course of the disease
The incubation period of the disease usually lasts from two days to several weeks or even months, depending on the state of the patient's immune system and the form of the disease:
- with latent sluggish thrush, the symptoms of the disease appear approximately on the third to fifth day after infection;
- with concomitant candidiasis inflammation of the vaginal tissues, the manifestation of the first signs of the disease is delayed up to two weeks;
- in case of a lesion with thrush of the urinary tract, bladder or kidneys, the symptoms of the disease may appear in a month or even two after the onset of the disease,
- the incubation period for candidiasis in men ranges from five days to two months.
There are 4 degrees of development of such a disease:
- Latent or latent form of the disease, in which the penetration and consolidation of pathogens occurs in an environment suitable for their development. This can be a significant weakening of the patient's immunity, and an exacerbation of chronic diseases, and hormonal changes in the body.
- Superficial mild form of candidiasis, in which the surface of the mucous membranes or skin is affected. During this period, there is a significant multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms, which often leads to the manifestation of visible signs of the disease.
- Systemic candidiasis, in which the fungus penetrates into the deep layers of the skin and affects the internal organs. Such thrush is treated for a long time and requires significant effort and a lot of time to recover. In case of untimely therapy, it proceeds to the next stage of development.
- Septic thrush caused by the entry of the Candida fungus into the systemic circulation. With the help of the circulatory system, all internal organs and body systems are infected, which is often fatal.
In addition, thrush is classified according to the severity of the disease:
- Candidacy. This is the initial and mildest stage of the disease. Usually it is asymptomatic, and the woman may not even know that she is the carrier of the disease. The vast majority of pregnant women face this problem. This form of the disease is treated quickly and does not entail unpleasant and severe complications.
- The acute form of candidiasis is characterized by a sharp manifestation of the clinical picture of the disease. The course of the disease is rapidly progressing and, in the absence of proper treatment, becomes chronic. With this form of thrush, the lymph nodes in the groin area often become inflamed, which causes even more discomfort to patients.
- Chronic form, which is characterized by periods of exacerbation with a sluggish disease. Symptoms for this type of disease are poorly expressed, but symptoms are constantly present. There are two types of chronic candidiasis: recurrent or recurrent thrush, characterized by an exacerbation of the disease after intercourse or before the onset of menstruation, and persistent or sluggish thrush, which is characterized by either extinction or sudden outbreaks of symptoms of the disease.
Thrush is very often diagnosed in pregnant women. According to statistics, there is one disease for every third case. It can begin both in the early stages and in the second and third trimester. The first trimester of pregnancy is especially dangerous for such a disease, since candidiasis in advanced forms can provoke a miscarriage. Thrush of pregnancy is a common cause of fetal infection. Moreover, this can happen both in utero and during the passage of the child through the birth canal.
Breastfeeding mothers can also develop this condition. Breastfeeding often causes breast thrush, through which the infant can become infected from the mother. Moreover, when a disease is detected in the mother, or in the baby, both should be treated at the same time so that the thrush does not pass from one to the other and does not return again.
After ovulation, an environment favorable for the reproduction of the fungus is also formed. The main cause of thrush during this period is a sharp surge in progesterone, which begins to be produced just in the middle of the cycle, and contributes to the adhesion and growth of the number of yeast-like fungi.
Before ovulation, there is a significant change in the microflora of the vagina, which also leads to candidiasis or thrush, which is essentially the same thing. At the same time, gynecologists argue that candidiasis affects ovulation, and therefore the ability to conceive a child, therefore, in any case, urgent treatment is required.
With menstruation, the clinic of the disease looks different. In some patients, against the background of the development of thrush, a delay in menstruation may occur, in others, on the contrary, the symptoms of the disease subside.
Diagnosis and treatment of the disease
Diagnosis of thrush implies the conduct of laboratory and clinical studies to identify this disease. Most often, for this purpose, a smear is taken from the vagina for microscopic examination. With candidiasis, increased white blood cells are observed in the smear. They show the onset of the inflammatory process. And the higher their number, the more neglected the disease itself.
It is also used, a bacterial culture of the vagina is taken and a visual examination is performed. In addition, the doctor may require a PCR test.
Also, in some cases, you will need to undergo additional examinations: donate blood and urine for sugar, since in some cases thrush can act as one of the symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
With chronic thrush, it is necessary to undergo a complete examination and identify the reasons why the growth of yeast-like fungi constantly occurs. If such factors are not found and eliminated, thrush will return again, and a relapse of the disease will develop.
Treatment of thrush can be carried out with the use of drugs, as well as folk remedies at home. In mild stages of the disease, doctors recommend the use of local medical antimicrobial drugs: vaginal suppositories and tablets, ointments, gels and creams. At a more advanced stage, treatment with antibiotics and systemic antimycotic agents is desirable. Systemic medications for thrush are usually taken once. If after this there is a burning sensation or other unpleasant symptoms, it is necessary to repeat the course of treatment once or twice a month. It is possible to treat such a disease at home with the help of douching, for which both ready-made medicines and decoctions of medicinal herbs are used.
However, you can get rid of candidiasis forever only with the help of complex therapy, which includes:
- the use of systemic and local antifungal drugs;
- the use of immunostimulants and vitamin complexes;
- folk remedies for the prevention of relapse;
- proper nutrition;
- subsequent restoration of the beneficial microflora of the vagina.
Preventive measures and diet for candidiasis
Prevention of candidiasis is to avoid the onset and development of such a disease.
For this, factors such as are very important:
- personal hygiene;
- timely change of tampons or pads;
- strengthening the immune system;
- refusal to wear tight synthetic underwear;
- avoidance of promiscuous sexual intercourse;
- avoidance of stressful situations;
- normalization of nutrition and diet;
- use a shower, while the bath should fade into the background;
- avoid being in wet clothes for a long time;
- wipe the genitals dry after bathing.
In addition, it is necessary to use antibacterial drugs for the treatment of diseases only as directed by a doctor and under his careful guidance.
Chocolate
Intimate life with candidiasis
Many patients are interested in questions: is it possible to have sex with candidiasis, and also is it possible to get pregnant with such a disease.
The fact is that untreated thrush can have a very bad effect on conception, and in some cases even lead to infertility, especially if the disease was accompanied by sexually transmitted infections.
As for sex, the reviews of many patients indicate that it can only be engaged in using barrier contraception methods. But severe, profuse thrush is accompanied by symptoms such as pain, itching and burning, from which no condom can save. It is unlikely that such sensations will help to achieve orgasm. The advice of doctors in this case agree on one thing, you cannot have sex until the thrush has completely passed, that is, until the unpleasant symptoms disappear completely.
Finally
Thrush is an unpleasant disease caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. It has various symptoms, depending on gender, the severity of the disease and other factors. In advanced stages, this disease can lead to severe and serious consequences, up to and including death. Therefore, one should not take it to the extreme, but at the first signs of the disease, contact a qualified specialist to diagnose the disease and prescribe the necessary treatment.
Speciality: infectious disease specialist, gastroenterologist, pulmonologist.
Overall experience: 35 years .
Education:1975-1982, 1MMI, san-gig, highest qualification, infectious disease doctor.
Science degree: doctor of the highest category, candidate of medical sciences.
The stages of development of thrush are the sequential unfolding of symptoms of candidiasis, which make it possible to suspect the disease.
Each disease has its own specific and nonspecific signs, which more and more manifest themselves in the event that treatment is not started on time. The causative agent of thrush is a fungus from the genus Candida, which uses lactic acid bacteria of the vaginal environment and glucose decomposition products for nutrition.
This disease is familiar to almost every woman. If it does not appear during the normal life of a woman, then during pregnancy it definitely manifests itself in one way or another. A woman almost every visit is examined by a gynecologist, part of which is the collection of a smear on the flora.
Stages
An increase in the number of candida does not always lead to their active reproduction, which should be avoided.
The signs of thrush are as follows:
There are several forms of candidiasis: if it manifests itself in isolated cases, then it is acute, although the term "acute thrush" in the scientific sense does not exist. However, with frequent exacerbations, a recurrent form occurs, in which the manifestations are not so acute, but some symptoms are permanent.
For example, pain during urination and during sexual intercourse will be constant, but less pronounced in the period between exacerbations. With exacerbations, the discharge intensifies, itching appears, but it is not as pronounced as with the first-onset thrush.
Sequence of the unfolding of symptoms
The stages of thrush depend on the degree of onset of symptoms. It depends on the form of the presence of the fungus in the body, which is characteristic of a given woman.
Clinically, the following forms of pathology are distinguished:
Men can also develop thrush, for reasons common to both sexes, as well as after contact with a woman with candidiasis.
Therefore, when treating a woman, it is important to treat a man in order to prevent her re-infection after treatment and transmission of the infection to her partner.
A feature of candidiasis in a man is that the signs of thrush are not so pronounced.
The stages of thrush are defined as follows:
Not in all cases there is a transition of infection from stage 1 to stage 5, however, it must be borne in mind that refusal of treatment can lead to very unpleasant consequences.
How is thrush manifested in men
A fungal infection of any of the mucous membranes can show signs of thrush in men. Having a different name "candidiasis", thrush manifests itself even on the internal organs.
After the initial infection, there is a short incubation period before manifestation of thrush in men(photo 2). Discomfort during urination is accompanied by the presence of whitish filaments. This is a characteristic discharge with thrush. The clinical picture is complemented by inflammation. Young people learn what thrush is much more often than mature men. The most common route of infection with a fungus is exogenous. Basically, candidiasis manifests itself as a type of other diseases: balanitis is the most common form, candidal urethritis. Almost always, you can observe the presence of films, erosion, slight swelling and hyperemia.
The first signs of thrush in men
The first thing that attracts attention is the appearance of problems with urination, since the first signs of thrush in men(see photo 3) - burning, pain. It is noteworthy that more than 10% of men at first have absolutely no manifestations at all. But, having arisen later, the symptoms of the disease proceed quite brightly and strongly. Pain appears during the act, the head becomes covered with a white bloom. The disease may at first resemble another ailment, since the main signs in men are papules, itching, hyperemia, and swelling. It looks a bit like signs of thrush in women... but there are differences. Skin candidiasis is easily distinguished from other diseases - opened papules and vesicles leave a white coating.
What does a male thrush look like?
Genital candidiasis is the most common disease in men. Male thrush(see photo 4) has a number of symptoms - redness of the foreskin, glans, complemented by slight swelling. But if these symptoms are the only ones, then the presence of thrush is not necessary. The most terrible symptoms in men are itching and burning. They are especially annoying when they are spontaneous, uncontrollable.
The manifestations are often accompanied by pain. It especially increases with erection, intercourse and does not stop immediately after completion. Symptoms of male thrush are characterized by the presence of a thick, off-white coating. At the same time, there is a rather unpleasant sour smell. This symptom has and candidiasis in women... but more pronounced. With such a fungal infection as male thrush, the main symptoms are often supplemented by the manifestation of a rash, the presence of papules, and erosions.
Thrush in men on the head
Emerged thrush on dick(photo 5) affects the skin of the head, the inner layer. This disease is otherwise called candidal balanoposthitis. Thrush in men forms a cheesy plaque on the head, and the mucous membrane is often covered with ulcerations. Discharge with a sour odor and rash appear. On the penis, the disease provokes swelling of the head, very irritating to the foreskin. Plaque accumulates under it. The rash on the head with thrush burns and itches badly. It is not possible to touch the organ without causing pain. One of the varieties of the disease - urogenital candidiasis in men... accompanied by cuts. Thrush on the glans makes it difficult for the foreskin to slide over it.
What does thrush look like in men
The initial stage of thrush looks like normal irritation and redness. However, only with an increase in the affected areas and the appearance of cheesy substances on them, many understand what does thrush look like in men(see photo 6) on the genitals. The tip of the penis and foreskin are irritated and itchy. Redness appears under the flesh. Candidiasis most often affects the inner layer of flesh. The penis becomes carrot-colored, covered with small erosions, rashes. White bloom is similar in composition to what leaves thrush in the mouth in adults... but the sour smell is joined by the smells of secretion and urine. Launched thrush sometimes leads to mental problems, organ dysfunction.
Causes of thrush in men
Candidiasis affects any mucous membrane, even the tongue. The causes of thrush in men depend on many factors:
Male thrush can be due to anemia. Taking corticosteroids also provokes the appearance of fungi. The reasons can even be found in hygiene products. Aromatic gels irritate the delicate skin of the penis, provoking the growth of the fungus. Thrush on the skin (photo in the gallery) can occur after unprotected intercourse with an infected partner. Quite often, the disease in men, like thrush during pregnancy... occurs due to mechanical factors: tight, low-quality, poorly breathable linen. Infection occurs even through oral contact.
Gallery of photos of thrush in men
What is thrush?
Thrush has been known for a long time. The disease affects the skin, nail plates, mucous membranes and internal organs. The symptoms of the disease depend on the organ affected. The second name for thrush is candidiasis or candidiasis, named after the fungi of the genus Candida, which are the cause of the disease.
In the era of widespread use of antibiotics, the number of diseases has increased dramatically. They not only suppress normal microflora, but also stimulate the growth of yeast-like fungi. A number of scientists attribute thrush to the diseases of civilization. It is also called "disease from treatment." In recent years, the methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this disease have significantly improved.
Candida albicans - yeast-like fungi are always present in the mouth and intestines of humans without causing disease. They begin to manifest themselves when the hormonal background is disturbed, the immunity is weakened and when antibiotics are taken uncontrolled.
The causes of thrush
Conditionally pathogenic fungi of the genus Candida cause the disease. There are many varieties of Candida, but Candida albicans is the most common cause of the disease.
Rice. 1. In the photo, mushrooms of the genus Candida. Form kidney cells and elongated filaments (pseudomycelium).
Mushrooms are ubiquitous. They are found in soil, water, and food. The outcome of a person's meeting with them depends on the state of his immune system.
In healthy individuals, fungi are destroyed by cells of the immune system (phagocytes) and blood immunoglobulins, in others, candida persist (live, but do not cause disease), third parties develop candidiasis (thrush).
Defects in the immune defense system against fungi in humans are the main factor in the onset of candidiasis.
Environmental factors, endogenous and exogenous factors contribute to the development of candidiasis.
To environmental factors include the temperature conditions of a person's stay, a change in the climatic zone of stay.
To exogenous factors include increased sweating, damage to the skin and mucous membranes during the period of professional activity with acids, alkalis, etc. a large number of fungal spores in the ambient air, failure to properly comply with the hygienic regime and stress.
Endogenous factors includes a number of diseases in which the internal homeostasis of a person is significantly disturbed. Candidiasis often develops in diabetes mellitus, ulcerative colitis, obesity, chronic infectious diseases, diseases of the blood system, neoplasms, hypovitaminosis, pregnancy, use of contraceptives, corticosteroids and cytostatics, HIV infections, etc.
Taking broad-spectrum antibiotics is the most common cause of intestinal dysbiosis and severe systemic candidiasis.
With thrush, smooth skin, mucous membranes, nails and internal organs are affected. With the defeat of internal organs, candidiasis of the digestive, genitourinary, respiratory systems and candidal sepsis are noted.
Clinical forms and symptoms of thrush with lesions of smooth skin
With thrush, smooth skin and mucous membranes are most often affected.
The mucous membrane of the oral cavity, the female genital organs, the foreskin and the head of the penis are the main lesions in thrush.
Rice. 2. In the photo, fungi of the genus Candida on the surface of mucous membranes and smooth skin.
Signs and symptoms of thrush when smooth skin folds are affected
The defeat of smooth skin by fungi Candida albicans begins in large folds in the groin, under the mammary glands, around the anus, and in the folds between the toes and hands.
Rice. 3. In the photo, thrush of the groin area (intertriginous candidiasis). At first, vesicles are formed, which quickly break open. The lesions are dark red. Their surface is moist and shiny. On the periphery, a narrow white fringe of exfoliating epidermis and foci of shedding in the form of vesicles are visible.
Rice. 4. In the photo, candidiasis of the inguinal folds. The narrow white fringe of the exfoliating epidermis and foci of shedding in the form of vesicles along the periphery are clearly visible.
5 stages of thrush
Carrot juice is an effective natural remedy for thrush at home
Thrush is the result of an overgrowth of the Candida yeast... which are present in small amounts in the intestines. Due to the decrease in immunity, the use of antibiotics and the abuse of unhealthy food, fungi begin to multiply intensively. In this case, not only the intestines are colonized, but also the vagina, oral cavity, etc.
As a result of taking antibiotics, the intestinal microflora is often disrupted, and yeast fungi begin to multiply intensively.
1st initial stage of thrush
Thrush affects the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, vagina, and respiratory tract. In newborns, increased colonization of the intestine by yeast is accompanied by colic. Women have a vaginal yeast infection - thrush, PMS appears. In many cases, Candida is also a urinary tract infection. If a rash, eczema, acne appears on the body, or seizures in the corners of the mouth, you can safely suspect thrush. Yeast fungi have the property of suppressing the immune system, so a person can often get sick with bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis; streptococcal and staphylococcal infections may intensify. In some cases, a person infected with thrush becomes allergic. If there is a craving for sweets or alcohol, this is also a symptom of the initial stage of thrush. Bad breath and body odor, sun spots or liver spots are signs of yeast colonization. The appearance of belching and heartburn should also be alerted.
Stage 2 overgrowth of thrush
At this stage, thrush becomes chronic. Against the background of symptoms characteristic of the 1st stage, new ones appear. It seems unrealistic that thrush can cause disease, but it is. With thrush, a change in metabolism occurs; the person may gain weight or their weight will fluctuate. Tinnitus may appear; headache and dizziness. Chronic muscle and joint pain (arthritis) is also possible. Thrush negatively affects the urogenital tract, so bladder inflammation can occur.
3rd stage of thrush
At this stage, yeast "poisoning" of the body occurs. The signs of thrush described in the previous stages 1 and 2 remain. The following symptoms from the nervous system also occur: 1) inability to concentrate; memory impairment; 2) muscle twitching; 3) depression; 4) epileptic seizures. The development of hypoglycemia is likely, which further provokes the development of diabetes mellitus. In many cases, women are diagnosed with infertility. It is also possible "failures" in the work of the thyroid gland, which is further manifested by its disease.
4th stage of thrush - systemic candidiasis
This is a very dangerous stage of thrush. With systemic candidiasis, some organs of the endocrine system (adrenal glands, thyroid gland, pancreas) may stop working. Severe constipation and severe myopathy (muscle weakness) develop.
Stage 5 - death
Unfortunately, thrush can spread throughout the body. This causes the impossibility of the functioning of the cells of the body, death occurs. This result of yeast colonization is terrible, especially if you think about the fact that death was preceded by 4 stages of thrush with very pronounced symptoms.
Home treatment for thrush
There are many options for treating thrush at home. The more advanced the stage of thrush, the longer it will take to completely recover from it.
Acidophilic bacteria colonize the human intestine and create conditions for the growth of beneficial microflora, while the pathogenic microflora (including yeast) is suppressed. Acidophilic bacteria are found in yogurt. You need to consume yogurt 3-4 times a day for 2-3 months, then a therapeutic effect on thrush will be provided.
Antifungal drugs break down yeast cells, accelerating the yeast death process. Antifungal medications are optional, but they are good at killing Candida colonies.
When you start treating thrush, you may notice that a number of symptoms characteristic of your stage may worsen. This is because in the process of the death of yeast cells, a lot of toxins are released into the bloodstream, which poison the body. To reduce the symptoms of yeast poisoning, reduce your daily dose of acidophilus bacteria. However, in this case, the treatment of thrush will take place at a slower pace.
Natural remedies for thrush
Natural antifungal agents are: coconut oil, grapefruit seed extract, olive leaf extract, garlic, apple cider vinegar, carrot juice. These 5 natural remedies are very effective against thrush. It is not at all necessary to apply them all at once. It is better to conduct weekly courses of treatment with one remedy, then change it to another available one.
When treating a colony of yeast fungi, you must also observe diet against thrush... The diet increases the effectiveness of the treatment and also ensures that thrush does not come back. Remember, Candida is a living thing within you that absorbs nutrients (sugar and yeast) from the food we eat. It is enough to exclude foods containing sugar and yeast from the diet to get rid of thrush forever. Remember that the thrush is an evil fairy who will ruin your life until you get rid of it.
What do men need to know about the manifestations and symptoms of thrush?
The symptoms of thrush in men are manifested in different ways. Depending on the state of the immune system, such a disease can manifest itself in the form of stomatitis, balanitis or intestinal candidiasis. The disease progresses rapidly and, if left untreated, can develop into a chronic one. In this case, with any changes in the hormonal background or with a decrease in immunity, candidiasis will return again and bring trouble.
The manifestation of the disease can be different and depends on the location of the infection.
Localization of infection
Depending on the place of localization, the signs can differ significantly. There are several options where candidiasis can appear:
Also, Candida fungi can infect the skin, but this does not happen so often. The ways of transmission of this disease are also different. It is difficult to predict what symptoms will appear, it all depends on the characteristics of the lesion and the location of the infection. Also, men may experience candidal urethritis, which in symptoms looks similar to inflammation of the urethra.
How can you get sick?
Few people know that even a strong half of humanity often suffers from candidiasis. Thrush in men is a rare occurrence, but they are also susceptible to fungal diseases. But in comparison with women, this disease proceeds somewhat differently. You can get sick after having intercourse with an infected woman. This problem is also called "spousal thrush" by doctors.
In addition, the disease can develop on its own as a result of a violation of the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract. In men, the fungus can move to the genitals from the rectum if the microflora disorder is not treated for a long time. Symptoms of the disease will be the same as for an upset stomach, however, it is better to consult a specialist for appropriate treatment.
As a result of decreased immunity, Candida can develop in the mouth. This can be an infection from early childhood, which periodically manifests itself as stomatitis. Vivid examples of the manifestation of candidiasis are shown in the photo.
Such a male disease is rare, because the genitals in men are not a favorable environment for pathogenic microflora. At the moment, doctors still notice a slight increase in the number of patients infected with the Candida fungus. They explain such statistics by the fact that the number of sick women has increased in the world. But this disease can still occur if fungi on the penis got from other parts of the body - most often from the rectum.
Symptoms of candidiasis in men appear somewhat differently than in women. External thrush is mainly manifested. It is in the initial stage, slight redness and swelling of the penis, and white masses under the foreskin can also be observed. At other difficult stages, erosion and specific films may form. The photo shows the symptoms of candidiasis.
It is highly likely that candidiasis can affect the groin and scrotum area. The disease is manifested by some unpleasant sensations when visiting the toilet and during intercourse. If thrush is left untreated, other, more complex diseases can occur.
The first signs of fungal infection
One of the early manifestations of the disease may be pain during intercourse.
When it comes to stomatitis, the symptoms may differ in manifestations, depending on age. Children's candidiasis is most often known. It manifests itself in both babies and adult men with an increase in temperature, the appearance of a rash. A general decrease in immunity and the appearance of lesions in the mouth, similar to cottage cheese, are the main manifestations. The photo shows an example of stomatitis.
The Candida fungus can also be localized in the intestines. In this case, the gastrointestinal tract undergoes significant disorders. The main symptoms are:
Among the signs of intestinal candidiasis, loss of appetite is also distinguished. This occurs as a result of microflora disruption, which leads to a decrease in healthy enzymatic activity. Such candidiasis can and should be treated.
Manifestations on the genitals
The disease begins from the head and goes to the foreskin, skin and groin. As a result, balanitis or urethritis and cystitis may develop. The main signs of candida fungi on the head:
Also, symptoms appear on the skin of the penis. Red spots appear, which are covered with scales - foci of fungal infection. This is a kind of reaction to the reproduction of candida and their excretion. The photo shows an example of a skin rash.
In addition, the symptoms of candidiasis are as follows:
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Treatment of thrush in the mouth of a child
Oral thrush is one of the most common diseases in children. This is a fungal infection that affects the mucous membranes and causes very unpleasant sensations and discomfort. If you notice it at the initial stage, the treatment will not be long. How to recognize, treat, and can milk trouble be prevented?
The word "milkmaid" in mothers does not evoke associations with a rosy-cheeked milk trader. As a medical term, it is a disease that provokes the Candida fungus.
Photo: Filaments of Candida fungus pseudomycelium under a microscope
At the first signs of thrush in a child, urgent measures must be taken so that it does not develop into serious problems.
Symptoms of thrush in the mouth of a child ^
Thrush in a baby's mouth is noticeable even by his behavior. Because of the pain, he can refuse to eat, turns away from his chest, hardly clinging to it, becomes restless and moody, it is difficult for him to swallow.
As soon as the mother notices that the baby begins to cry, starting to suck on the breast or nipple, this is the first beacon to examine the baby's mouth. If you notice white dots in the baby's mouth, sound the alarm and rush to your pediatrician.
The onset of the disease is considered to be the appearance of subtle red spots on the lips, gums, tongue and cheeks. A few days later, a white curd rash forms instead. Plaque is difficult to remove, and if you still remove it, small wounds appear on the spot, which can bleed.
Causes of the disease ^
Oral thrush occurs for various reasons.
Most often, infection of children with candidiasis occurs:
If a pregnant woman has vaginal candidiasis, during the passage of the baby through the birth canal, it will certainly become infected with fungal spores.
Even if the mother has never been familiar with a delicate illness, it is not a fact that she will bypass the child. To a small extent, the fungus of the genus Candida is present in everyone's body, but begins to multiply only under the necessary conditions.
The main thing that he needs is an acidic environment with sensitive mucous membranes in the oral cavity. An acidic environment can form in infants due to frequent regurgitation.
Photo: Regurgitation prepares a favorable environment for thrush
Often, thrush is found after an illness that has been treated with antibiotics by either a baby or a nursing mother. The fact is that antibiotics destroy beneficial bacteria in the body and provoke the onset of intestinal dysbiosis, followed by candidiasis.
Babies who are breastfed are less prone to thrush than those who were transferred to formula early.
None of them, even the most expensive, are able to provide babies with the same powerful immune protection, and weak immunity cannot protect the body from fungal infections.
Photo: Breastfeeding will protect the baby from fungus
But the most common cause of infection is probably a banal non-observance of hygiene rules. So, the infection enters the child's mouth through dirty hands or breasts, and with artificial feeding from a poorly washed nipple.
When a child grows up a little, he begins to grab toys with his hands, he always strives to taste them. It is possible that Candida secretly settled on some rattle or spoon.
Video: spitting up in a child
Stages of the disease ^
It is sometimes difficult to determine thrush in a baby right away. After all, he eats milk or a mixture, therefore the first symptoms can be perceived as food leftovers. It is recommended to regularly examine the child in order to notice candidal rashes even at the initial, mild, stage.
Easy
Photo: Early stage thrush
At an easy stage, thrush looks like red spots on the mucous membranes in the mouth.
Then they become covered with curd plaques, under which you can simply find redness. The disease does not cause any particular discomfort in the child at this stage and is easily amenable to home treatment.
Average
Over time, individual white spots turn into plaque, they grow, join together and gradually fill the entire oral cavity.
The more thrush is started, the more difficult it is to separate this plaque. The baby already begins to feel pain during sucking and when he swallows, therefore he shows anxiety, refuses to eat.
Heavy
In the severe stage, the sores in the mouth begin to bleed more intensely.
The fungus spreads from the tongue, gums and mucous membrane of the cheeks to the palate, lips, pharyngeal wall. Thrush takes the form of a solid white film, the soreness increases.
Photo: In a severe stage, the fungus spreads to the lips and palate
In a severe form, a longer, than at an early stage, complex treatment will be required, possibly in a hospital. The severe form of the disease is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, lethargy, and later by disorders of the intestinal microflora.
Forms of oral candidiasis ^
There are two forms of oral candidiasis in children - acute and chronic.
The first is more common, and chronic usually refers to the parallel symptoms of other, mainly serious diseases.
Sharp
Acute candidiasis affects the mucous membranes of the mouth, causing dryness and plaque. It consists of epithelial cells, food debris, fibrin and yeast.
With the development of thrush, the area of the lesion increases, cracks can form in the corners of the lips with the same plaque. Not infrequently, due to this disease in children, lymph nodes in the submandibular zone noticeably increase, and pain is felt on palpation.
The main complaints of children are burning, itching and soreness when eating. But you can find out about this from older children, but you can only guess about the sensations of babies.
Diagnosis of thrush in a child's mouth is carried out by visual examination, as well as examination of scrapings from the surface of the mucous membrane.
In the acute course of candidiasis, the accuracy of the diagnosis is very important, since it can be confused with the usual sore throat, stomatitis and even diphtheria on clinical grounds.
Chronic
Chronic candidiasis of the mouth is manifested by formations of a round shape, yellow or brownish.
They are firmly connected to each other and begin to rise above the level of the mucous membranes of the tongue, palate and cheeks.
The affected area becomes very painful if touched or tried to remove plaque. The mucous membrane swells, the lymph nodes thicken. Because of this, changes in the behavior of a sick child are also noticeable - he becomes silent and looks depressed.
It is very difficult to treat chronic candidiasis; it is better to take care that it does not acquire this form.
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