Thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast, with symptoms varying depending on the type and severity. Superficial infections of the mouth or genitals can be treated easily, while candidemia is more serious and affects those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms include white patches, discharge, itching, and burning. Candidiasis can also be caused by antibiotics and is treated with antifungal medication.
Thrush, also called candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by any of the Candida species of yeast. Candida albicans is the most common cause of the infection. The symptoms of thrush vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Yeast infections of the mouth or genitals are superficial and can typically be treated easily, whilefungaemia or candidemia, a fungal infection of the blood, is a much more serious condition, usually affecting people with compromised immune systems. Oral and genital candidiasis can also be serious when it is chronic.
Usually, thrush refers only to superficial infections, often only to oral candidiasis. Genital yeast infections, also called vaginitis although they can affect both males and females, are sometimes called vaginal or genital thrush. Oral thrush is characterized by white patches in the mouth and throat and on the tongue. The condition most often affects children.
Vaginal thrush is often characterized by a white, cottage cheese-like, odorless discharge. Men suffering from genital candidiasis may not show any symptoms and may develop a more serious condition later on. However, some men experience symptoms of thrush including red sores, itching and burning on the genitals. The symptoms of thrush affecting the genitals are similar to those of many different types of infections, so it is important to determine the cause of the symptoms before seeking treatment. Symptoms associated with vaginal thrush are most often caused by a bacterial infection.
Thrush symptoms may also affect the corners of the mouth in angular cheilitis, the anal region in perianal candidiasis, the cuticles in candidal paronychia, between the toes in blastomycetica interdigitalis erosion, and other skin folds in candidal intertrigo. Candidiasis can also be caused by the use of antibiotics, as it can kill the beneficial bacteria that keep the growth of fungi in check. Symptoms of superficial thrush include rashes, itching, and burning regardless of the particular area affected.
Candidemia or systemic candidiasis is not usually referred to as thrush, although it is caused by the fungus itself. Symptoms include generalized pain, fatigue, mental disorders and skin infections. Candidemia is treated with prescribed antifungal medications.
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