Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida, a type of yeast that naturally lives on the skin and inside the body (mouth, throat, gut, and vagina). When the balance of microorganisms is disturbed, Candida can overgrow and cause infection.

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Types of Candidiasis:

1. Oral Candidiasis (Thrush):
   • White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or throat
   • Pain, burning, or difficulty swallowing
2. Vaginal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection):
   • Itching, redness, thick white discharge (cottage cheese-like)
   • Burning during urination or intercourse
3. Skin Candidiasis:
   • Red, itchy rash often in skin folds (armpits, groin, under breasts)
4. Invasive Candidiasis (Serious):
   • Candida enters the bloodstream and spreads
   • Can affect the heart, brain, eyes, bones (seen in immunocompromised patients)

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Risk Factors:

• Antibiotic or steroid use
• Diabetes
• Weak immune system (e.g., HIV, cancer)
• Pregnancy
• Poor hygiene or tight clothing (for skin/vaginal infections)

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Treatment:

• Topical antifungals: creams, ointments (e.g., clotrimazole, nystatin)
• Oral antifungals: fluconazole, itraconazole
• Good hygiene, dietary changes (less sugar), and controlling underlying conditions (like diabetes) are important.

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