Candida, or yeast, is a naturally occurring fungus that lives in a plethora of places, including the body. Generally, a healthy immune system helps moderate its growth to prevent rapid multiplication and infection. In some instances, however, a yeast infection can arise, especially if a person's immune system is weak due to an illness or regimen of antibiotics. Yeast infections can affect different areas of the body. Fortunately, the majority of these mild infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications, according to MedlinePlus.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
The most common and well-known type of yeast infection occurs in the vagina. Women with this condition will experience itching, pain and a thick discharge resembling cottage cheese, according to MedlinePlus. Pain during urination and intercourse, as well as redness and swelling of the vulva, may also occur during a vaginal yeast infection, the TeensHealth website notes. Usual treatment includes an antifungal cream or suppository that women can purchase at local drugstores. In instances of troublesome or persistent irritation, women should see their gynecologist for testing and treatment, as the symptoms are not strictly confined to a vaginal yeast infection.
Thrush and Esophagitis
Oral thrush is a yeast infection of the oral cavity. Esophagitis is thrush that spreads to the esophagus. It will appear as creamy white lesions within the mouth, most notably on the tongue and inner cheeks, according to MayoClinic.com. The lesions can be painful and bleed if scraped. Cracking at the corners of the mouth, "cotton mouth," lesions with a cottage cheese-like appearance, and loss of taste are additional symptoms of oral thrush and esophagitis. In some instances, the thrush may spread to the tonsils and the roof of the mouth. Although this condition can occur in anyone, MayoClinic.com reports that babies, people who wear dentures, asthmatics who take corticosteroids, and individuals with a suppressed immune system are the most likely to experience thrush or esophagitis. Esophagitis is more serious than oral thrush, as the infection can cause swelling and cut off airways. Those with this type of thrush should seek immediate medical attention for treatment.
Tinea Versicolor
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, tinea versicolor is a common skin condition caused by an over-production of yeast on the skin. Yeast normally live within the pores and feed off the oil in regions such as the neck, upper chest and back. When the yeast overgrows, an infection causing small, scaly, white-to-pink or tan-to-dark spots can emerge. The spots are usually scattered around the arms, chest and back--although they may appear on the neck and face. Individuals with oily skin are more prone to tinea versicolor, and the condition is most common in teenagers and young adults and rarely develops in the elderly or children. Treatment requires a visit to a general physician or dermatologist for oral antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole.
