Candida, also known as thrush or a yeast infection, is a primary or secondary infection caused by the bacteria Candida, according to the University of Adelaide Mycology Online. It can present itself in many different parts of the body, and though it can be cured with medical treatment, in some individuals it is a persistent and recurrent infection. The Mayo Clinic notes that early detection of the symptoms of Candida is key to stopping the infection.
Chronic Oral Candida Symptoms
Oral Candida, which appears around the mouth and in the throat, is marked by disrupted oral sensation, lumpy growths of white plaques and mouth sores, according to UAMO. Chronic sufferers of oral Candida will see lumps and sores of increasing size. Over time, this is coupled with burning and dryness in the mouth area, a loss of taste sensations and painful swallowing, as noted by UAMO.
Chronic Vaginal Candida Symptoms
Chronic vaginal Candida is marked by persistent burning and abnormal discharges in the vaginal area, as noted by Drfungus.org. Pruritis may also be present. Over time, chronic vaginal Candida can contribute to menstrual and fertility problems. According to Doctorfungus website, this can include irregular periods and high levels of premenstrual pain.
Chronic Gastrointestinal Candida Symptoms
Though Candida is naturally present in the gut, signs of chronic gastrointestinal Candida cases can include heartburn, bloating, diarrhea and constipation, according to Drfungus.org. UAMO also notes that while they may not be able to be seen or may be mistaken for ulcers from another cause, chronic gastrointestinal Candida symptoms often include ulcerations of the stomach. Over time, patients will have stool samples that reflect the chronic and widespread colonization of the Candida strains.
Chronic Cutaneous Candida Symptoms
According to UAMO, chronic cutaneous Candida can manifest itself in red rashes, tender skin with lesions and satellite pustules, and skin that is deformed due to having been eaten away by the Candida. Chronic sufferers of Candida will notice rashes and swelling that do not seem to subside easily, even when treated with antibiotics. Where the Candida has moved into fingernails and nail bed areas, symptoms of puffed and deformed fingernails may progress to include detachment of fingernails during a severe symptom flare-up, according to the UAMO.
