Intestinal Candidiasis: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis

The term "intestinal candidiasis" often appears in patients' queries. Let us calmly sort out what lies behind this phrase. A separate intestinal variant with its own set of symptoms cannot be described here.

What intestinal candidiasis is

Candida is the scientific name for yeast fungi that live almost everywhere, including in the human body. Usually the immune system keeps them under control; if a person is ill or takes antibiotics, the fungi can multiply and cause infection. Candidiasis is the general name for such fungal infections, and they manifest differently depending on the site: in the mouth — as white plaques, on the skin — as itching and rash, in the vagina — as discharge.

Candida fungi: normal and pathology

The problem begins when the balance of bacteria changes and the fungi start to grow where there have become too many of them. The fungus grows well in a warm, moist environment and becomes active when the balance of bacteria changes. Esophageal candidiasis is thrush that has spread to the esophagus; it can make swallowing difficult or painful. Candida infection in the bloodstream can be life-threatening.

Causes and risk factors of candidiasis

Candidiasis can be triggered by damaged or irritated skin, antibiotic use, poorly controlled diabetes, weakened immunity (for example, with HIV or chemotherapy), hormone replacement therapy and pregnancy. With weakened immunity, treatment of fungal infections can be more difficult.

• antibiotic use
• poorly controlled diabetes
• weakened immunity
• pregnancy and hormone therapy

Symptoms and what they resemble

Candidiasis in the mouth causes white plaques. Esophageal candidiasis — difficulty and pain when swallowing. Skin forms — itching, redness, rash, sometimes with white or yellow discharge. Vaginal thrush — white discharge, itching, burning, discomfort during sex or urination. Sometimes candidiasis causes no symptoms at all.

How the diagnosis is confirmed

The doctor first asks about symptoms and wants to make sure that this is indeed candidiasis and not another infection. If the picture is unclear or episodes recur, the doctor may examine the affected area and take a swab of the discharge with a cotton swab to determine the cause and check for other infections. There are tests for fungal culture and tests for yeast infections. In candidiasis that returns more than four times in 12 months, the doctor looks for a triggering factor.

Possible complications and when a doctor is needed

You should see a doctor at the first symptoms of thrush, for episodes at age under 16 or after 60, for frequent relapses, for ineffective treatment, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and also with weakened immunity. Pain when swallowing and spread of the infection into the bloodstream require special attention.

This condition in itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — for signs of a severe condition against the background of a fungal infection, for example if bloodstream infection is suspected.

This material is for reference: it helps to understand the terms and ask the doctor the right questions, but does not replace a specialist's consultation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer