Signs of Candida

Candida is a type of yeast that is normally present on the skin. In general, candida does not cause any infectious symptoms. However, candida is able to grow particularly well in warm and wet areas of the body, which can allow it to overgrow. Depending on the location where the candida is growing (typically the mouth, genitals or bloodstream), candida infections can cause different symptoms.

Oral Candidiasis

One type of candida infection is called oral candidiasis, which is also known as oral thrush. Oral candidiasis typically presents itself as white and painless patches in the mouth, although sometimes these growths can cause redness and be painful. Another symptom of oral thrush is the skin at the corners of the mouth become dry and cracked. Sometimes oral thrush can spread into the esophagus, causing candida esophagitis. Oral esophagitis leads to the throat becoming very sore and can also make it difficult to swallow.

Genital Candidiasis

Candida is also present on the skin. Consequently, candida overgrowths can occur on the genitals. In women this fungus can lead to vaginal candidiasis, which can cause an itching or burning sensation in the vagina. Some women also develop a "cottage cheese-like" discharge from their vagina. In men, genital candidiasis may be asymptomatic, or it can lead to a rash on the penis. In general, genital candidiasis is the result of an overgrowth of candida from the patient's skin, although candida can also be transmitted via sexual contact

Invasive Candidiasis

Invasive candidiasis is the result of candida entering the bloodstream, where it can spread throughout the body. Invasive candidiasis causes symptoms that are common to most infections in the bloodstream, namely fever and chills. If these symptoms remain after antibiotic therapy, invasive candidiasis may be suspected. Because invasive candidiasis can spread to other organs, this type of infection can cause other symptoms (depending on which organs are affected) as the organs become damaged and ultimately fail.