A FUNGAL INFECTION CAUSED BY CANDIDA

Candidiasis

Q: Why does candidiasis keep coming back?

Recurrent candidiasis usually points to an underlying factor such as poorly controlled diabetes, frequent antibiotic use, hormonal changes or moist skin folds. Addressing the underlying cause alongside antifungal therapy is essential.

Q: Can candidiasis spread to others?

Candidiasis is usually due to overgrowth of organisms already in or on the body, so it is not generally considered contagious in the way bacterial or viral infections are. However, some forms such as genital candidiasis can sometimes be passed between partners.

Q: When should I see a doctor for thrush or vaginal symptoms?

See a doctor if symptoms are severe, recurring, occur during pregnancy, or do not respond to over-the-counter treatment. Recurrent infections may need a more detailed evaluation and longer-term management plan.

A fungal infection caused by Candida species, affecting the mouth, skin, genital area or, in severe cases, the blood. More common in diabetics and immunocompromised patients, treated effectively with antifungal therapy.

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Candidiasis oral and skin infection evaluation in Hyderabad

Common IN DIABETES AND LOW IMMUNITY

Multiple Sites MOUTH, SKIN, GENITAL

Treatable WITH ANTIFUNGAL THERAPY

ABOUT THIS CONDITION

What is Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans, which normally live in small numbers on the skin, mouth, gut and genital tract. When the balance is disturbed — due to diabetes, weakened immunity, prolonged antibiotic use, hormonal changes or moist skin folds — Candida can overgrow and cause infection. Common forms include oral candidiasis (thrush) with white patches in the mouth, vaginal candidiasis with itching and discharge, skin candidiasis in warm moist folds, and nail involvement. In patients with very low immunity or those in intensive care, Candida can enter the bloodstream and cause serious systemic infection. Most cases respond well to topical or oral antifungal therapy along with control of underlying factors. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete candidiasis care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.

SIGNS TO WATCH

Common Symptoms

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Symptoms that need attention

White patches in the mouth or on the tongue (oral candidiasis) Soreness, redness or burning in the mouth Itching, redness and white discharge in the genital area Red, sore, itchy patches in skin folds Discolouration or thickening of the nails Fever and feeling unwell in deep or bloodstream infections

WHY IT HAPPENS

Causes & Risk Factors

Diabetes, particularly when blood sugar is poorly controlled
Weakened immune system due to chronic illness or immunosuppressive therapy
Prolonged or repeated antibiotic use
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or with certain medication
Moist skin folds, tight clothing or excessive sweating
Use of dentures or prolonged inhaler use without rinsing the mouth
Hospitalisation and use of indwelling lines in seriously ill patients

CLINICAL DETAILS

KeyFacts

Diagnosis

Clinical examination; swabs and laboratory testing in select cases

Sites

Oral · Vaginal · Skin folds · Nails · Bloodstream (in severe cases)

Treatment

Topical or oral antifungal therapy

Underlying control

Managing diabetes and other predisposing factors is essential

Recurrence

Common if predisposing factors are not addressed

Hospital

Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

HOW WE TREAT IT

Treatment Approach

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Antifungal Therapy with Control of Underlying Factors

The most effective approach combines appropriate topical or oral antifungal therapy with control of underlying factors such as diabetes, antibiotic use and skin hygiene. This significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.

1

Consultation & Assessment

Dr. Pravallika examines the affected sites, reviews predisposing conditions and orders swabs or laboratory tests where needed.
2

Treatment Planning

A personalised plan is created based on the site and severity of infection, presence of diabetes or other immune issues, and recurrence pattern.
3

Medical Management

Topical or oral antifungal therapy, blood sugar optimisation in diabetics, and management of any other contributing factors.
4

Recovery & Follow-up

Follow-up review to confirm clearance of the infection and counselling on prevention, especially in patients prone to recurrence.

AVAILABLE TREATMENTS

Treatment Options

Topical or Oral Antifungal Therapy

Antifungal creams, lozenges or oral medication clear Candida infection, with the choice depending on the site and severity.

Treating Underlying Conditions

Optimising diabetes control, reviewing immunosuppressive therapy and managing other underlying factors significantly reduce recurrence.

Hygiene Advice

Practical guidance on skin care, oral hygiene, drying of skin folds and care of dentures and inhalers helps reduce risk.

Avoiding Overuse of Antibiotics

Using antibiotics only when truly needed helps maintain the normal balance of bacteria and reduces the risk of Candida overgrowth.

Recurrence Prevention

Patients with frequent candidiasis are evaluated for underlying causes and offered structured prevention planning.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does candidiasis keep coming back?+

Can candidiasis spread to others?+

When should I see a doctor for thrush or vaginal symptoms?+

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