Thrush

Some common signs and symptoms of thrush irrespective of which body part is attacked by the fungus are as follows:

• White patch
• Itching
• Irritation
• Unpleasant odour
• Pain
• Slightly raised reddish lesions
• Fever

Candida is normally present in the body but not in numbers that can cause infections. The following factors cause multiplication of this fungus, leading to infections:

• Medications, such as corticosteroids, contraceptive pills, and antibiotics that weaken the immunity
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Dryness of mouth
• Improperly fitting dentures
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Weakened immunity conditions, such as cancer and HIV

The diagnosis of oral candidiasis involves a physical examination and microscopical testing of the samples from the affected areas. Candida oesophagitis usually involves endoscopy for its diagnosis. In the case of genital candidiasis, a physical examination along with some questions about the symptoms helps in the diagnosis of the condition.

Nystatin, miconazole, and clotrimazole are the commonly prescribed antifungal drugs for the treatment of candidiasis. Oral or intravenous fluconazole is prescribed in case of oesophageal and severe candidiasis. Other types of antifungal drugs are used in cases where fluconazole is not effective in treating the condition.