Candida skin infections are caused by yeast organisms and can occur in areas of the body where the skin is moist and warm. Symptoms include itching, redness, and discomfort. Antifungal creams or oral medications are used to treat the condition. Other types of yeast infections include thrush and vaginal/penile infections.
Candida skin infections, also known as cutaneous candidiasis, are caused by several species of yeast organisms, all of which belong to the candida genus. These types of organisms are common on human skin and usually don’t cause any problems, but if the outer layer of skin is damaged, skin infections can occur. This happens most often in areas of the body where the skin is constantly kept moist and warm, for example the diaper area in babies and in various skin folds, including the underarms, corners of the mouth, buttocks and groin . The most common symptoms of this type of yeast skin infection include itching, redness, and discomfort or pain in the affected area. Candida skin infections commonly cause a rash, usually characterized by the formation of larger lesions surrounded by smaller so-called satellite lesions.
Yeast is a type of fungus, and various types of fungi can cause skin infections. The specific yeast organism that most commonly causes candida skin infections is candida albicans. A very common symptom of this type of infection is a rash or sores that are usually red in color and have a well-defined, wavy edge. This rash is often associated with itching, irritation, and a burning sensation. Diaper rash is a common form of candida and can cause severe pain and discomfort for the baby.
Anyone can get candida skin infections, but people most at risk are people with diabetes, the obese, and people with compromised immune systems, such as people with AIDS or those undergoing chemotherapy. Taking antibiotics or oral contraceptives can also increase the risk of contracting skin candidiasis. Candida infections are usually treated successfully with antifungal creams or ointments, and the infected area should also be kept clean and dry. A doctor should be consulted if the skin infection does not improve within a few days of treatment. In some cases, oral medications are needed to treat the condition.
There are other common types of yeast infections as well. Thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth, with symptoms including white patches on the tongue and other areas inside the mouth. It is common in infants and adults with poorly functioning immune systems and can be so painful that eating and drinking becomes difficult. Candida infections can also occur in the vaginal and penile area, where they commonly cause itching, pain, and sometimes a thick white discharge. More rarely, candida microorganisms cause infections of the bloodstream, throat, and gastrointestinal system.
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