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| Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) |
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What is candidiasis? Candidiasis, sometimes called moniliasis or a yeast infection, is an infection caused by yeast on the skin and/or mucous membranes. Although yeast is normally a harmless inhabitant of the digestive system and vaginal area, it may cause an infection when the skin is damaged, when conditions are warm and humid, and/or when a person has a depressed immune system. Antibiotics can also cause yeast to grow, because the normal bacteria in tissues are killed, letting the yeast grow unhampered. How is candidiasis diagnosed? In addition to a medical history and physical examination, your physician may scrape off a skin sample to confirm the diagnosis with a microscope or a culture. Treatment for candidias is: Specific treatment for candidiasis will be determined by your physician based on: * your age, overall health, and medical history * extent of the condition * your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies * expectations for the course of the condition * your opinion or preference Candidiasis is highly treatable with medicated ointments. Yeast infections in the vagina or anus can be treated with medicated suppositories. Thrush may be treated with a medicated mouthwash or lozenges that dissolve in the mouth. Severe infection or infections in an immunocompromised person may be treated with oral anti-yeast medications. |
