Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast called Candida albicans. Candida is a yeast that is normally found in all people, but it can cause problems and infections in certain cases. We are seeing candidiasis more frequently now due to overuse of antibiotics, increase in incidence of AIDS, and increase in organ transplants and implanted devices like catheters, artificial valves and artificial joints, which increase the risk of infection. Overgrowth of Candida can cause infections of the vaginal canal, mouth, deep organs, and can sometimes cause widespread infection of the bloodstream. Candidiasis is also the yeast infection that causes diaper rashes in babies.
Oral candidiasis
Oral candidiasis, also known as oral thrush, causes white, curd-like patches in the mouth or throat. The patches can appear on the tongue, inside the cheeks, or on the palate. Patients who wear dentures will experience redness without white patches. Most patients state that their mouth feels like it is filled with cotton. Oral candidiasis typically occurs in people with abnormal immune systems, patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, people taking immunosuppressive drugs to protect transplanted organs, people with HIV, or patients taking certain medications through their mouth such as inhalers as part of their respiratory therapy.
People with oral thrush usually get a prescription mouth rinse, a medicated lozenge, or a tablet to stick inside the gums to kill the yeast. Your doctor may sometimes prescribe a pill, especially if you have severe symptoms, diabetes, a weakened immune system, or are at risk for severe infections.
To prevent oral thrush, it is important to keep your mouth clean. Insides of mouth and tongue should be brushed twice a day as part of your daily routine. If you use inhalers by mouth, you should rinse the mouth after each use. If you wear dentures, it is really important to clean them nightly and to give your mouth some denture-free time.
Talk to our dermatologists for candida infections that are not responding to over the counter treatment options or if you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, AIDS, are pregnant, or have implanted devices like catheters and tubes.