Candidiasis, or thrush, is a low-grade infection caused by Candida albicans, a fungus that lives in warm, moist conditions, and thrives if the immune system is at a low ebb. It mainly affects the vagina, in up to 50 percent of women in the developed world, even if there are no symptoms. It may also affect the mouth, digestive tract, and skin.
Symptoms
• Thick, white discharge from the vagina, possibly with itching and discomfort on passing urine. In men, candidiasis causes inflammation of the head of the penis.
• Yellowish white, raised patches on the lining of the mouth. If the digestive tract is affected, symptoms include indigestion, nausea, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, and itching of the anus.
• In babies, inflamed type of diaper rash.
• Other associated symptoms include a skin rash, aches and pains, recurrent sore throat, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.
Causes
Candida albicans is normally present in the vagina and often in the mouth, but is kept under control by bacteria. Some drugs, such as antibiotics, interfere with this. Candidiasis may flare up if the immune system is compromised, as in AIDS, or if there are metabolic problems, such as diabetes. Oral contraceptives and immunosuppressive and progestogen drugs also encourage it to proliferate. Local factors may affect its growth (see Lifestyle). Conventional care Candida albicans can be identified in the mouth or genitals from swabs, but there is as yet no definitive test for the digestive tract. It is treated with antifungal drugs. These come as suppositories for the vagina or as creams for applying to the vulva or penis. There are oral drops for the mouth.
Homeopathic medicine
Homeopathy is most effective in treating candidiasis in the genitals. A practitioner will study the reason for the proliferation of the bacteria. Choice of constitutional remedy will depend upon individual symptoms, and especially the characteristics of the vaginal discharge. Arsen. alb. is prescribed for a burning, offensive-smelling discharge associated with inflammation; and Graphites for a profuse, thin, white discharge associated with inflammation. Medorrhinum is given for a fishysmelling discharge that feels as though it is stripping the skin off the vagina; while Merc. sol. is indicated for inflammation and bleeding of the vagina with a greenish discharge, and for inflammation of the penis. Nitric ac. is used to treat blisters and ulcers on the genitals. Local remedies include Lycopodium, for an irritating vaginal discharge that is worse after menstruation, with itching and thickening of the vulval skin from scratching; and Carbo veg., for an offensive-smelling, itchy, greenish, burning discharge that is worse for heat, and for cracking of the vulva. Kreosotum is prescribed for an offensive, sour-smelling discharge that stains underwear, with soreness and burning in the vagina; and Nux vomica, for an offensive-smelling discharge, especially during pregnancy, that is worse for heat, and is associated with frequent urination.
Lifestyle
Drugs known to aggravate the condition should be avoided. Candida albicans thrives on sugar, so the diet should be low in refined carbohydrates and, if allergy to fungal products is suspected, free of yeasts and molds. Acidophilic supplements encourage the growth of intestinal organisms to keep Candida albicans in check: garlic inhibits its growth. Regular exercise without overexertion is good. Both sexual partners should be treated. Adequate lubrication during intercourse is advisable, using a lubricant if necessary, and condoms will prevent the spread of infection. The vagina may benefit from an acidic douche or the application of live yogurt; an infected penis may be treated with calendula ointment. Perfumed toiletries are best avoided.
C A U T I O N
• If discharge does not respond to treatment or lifestyle changes, and especially if it is green and irritating, see a doctor within five days.
• If a diaper rash becomes uncomfortable, red, and raw, consult a doctor within 48 h
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
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