Yeast Infections, Candida & Thrush – What’s the difference?
What are they?
The term thrush is widely used in the UK to describe various infections caused by a form of fungi, Candida albicans, which is naturally produced by the human body and thus where the terms Candida or Candidiasis originate.
In the US, thrush is generally referred to as a yeast infection. However, each of these terms are interchangeable to some extent, dependent on the nature of the infection.
What causes them?
Candidiasis – Candida for short – is a type of infection that is caused by a fungus or yeast called candida albicans, which is found naturally on the body, particularly in warm, moist areas such as the mouth and genitals.
It remains unnoticed, causing no problems, as it is kept under control by the body’s natural bacterias and immune system – which defends the body against illness and infection.
However, there are factors that can cause the fungus to multiply and result in an infection, known as thrush (UK) or a yeast infection (US).
Who is at risk?
Thrush/yeast infections are dominantly found in women, but can also be found in men and babies.
In women, as mentioned above, the candida albicans fungi thrive in warm, moist areas such as the mouth and genitals. It can also be found around the nipples whilst breastfeeding, having been passed on from the baby.
Treatment and Prevention
With a wide range of treatment options available over-the-counter, you may want to discuss your symptoms and specific case with a pharmacist or GP.
In the meantime, you can take preliminary precautions by maintaining a healthy lifestyle as best you can; exercise regularly, eat healthily, keep your stress levels to the bare minimum –these small steps, may help to prevent thrush.
Your immune system is your body’s natural defence mechanism against infection and illness; it helps maintain a healthy balance throughout your body, including areas prone to thrush, such as your mouth and genitals.
Conclusion
If you believe you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of thrush, speak to your local pharmacist and follow the preliminary treatments – with a wealth of over-the-counter treatments available, you’ll feel back to normal in no time.
About the Author: Maria Bantellis is a health writer with a growing interest in thrush and related conditions.
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