The main symptom of candidiasis of the skin is a rash. The rash often causes redness and intense itching. In some cases, the infection can cause the skin to become cracked and sore. Blisters and pustules may also occur.

The rash can affect various parts the body, but it’s most likely to develop in the folds of the skin. This includes areas in the armpits, in the groin, between the fingers, and under the breasts. Candida can also cause infections in the nails, edges of the nails, and corners of the mouth.

Other conditions that may resemble candidiasis of the skin include:

If candida yeast enters the bloodstream (usually through medical equipment or devices), it can travel to the heart, brain, blood, eyes, and bones. This can cause a serious, life-threatening infection.

Genital Candidiasis symptoms include:

• Extreme itchiness in the vagina
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva (the outer part of the female genitals)
• Pain and burning when pee
• Discomfort during sex
• A thick, white “cottage cheese” discharge from the vagina

A man with a yeast infection may have an itchy rash on his penis.

Candidiasis of the skin develops when the skin becomes infected with Candida. A small amount of Candida fungi naturally live on the skin. When this type of fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, however, it can cause an infection. This may occur because of:

• warm weather
• tight clothing
• poor hygiene
• infrequent undergarment changes
• obesity
• the use of antibiotics that kill harmless bacteria that keep Candida under control
• the use of corticosteroids or other medications that affect the immune system
• a weakened immune system as a result of diabetes, pregnancy, or another medical condition
• incomplete drying of damp or wet skin

Candida fungi thrive and grow in warm, moist areas. This is why the condition often affects areas where there are folds of skin.

Babies can also develop candidiasis of the skin, especially on the buttocks. A diaper tends to provide an ideal environment for Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin usually isn’t contagious. However, people with weakened immune systems may develop the condition after touching the skin of an infected person. Those with compromised immune systems are also more likely to develop a severe infection as a result of candidiasis.

Candidiasis of the skin can usually be prevented with home remedies, the most important of which is proper hygiene. Washing the skin regularly and drying the skin thoroughly can prevent the skin from becoming too moist. This is vital to keeping Candida infections at bay.

There are many lifestyle changes that can make to both prevent and treat a candidiasis infection. Some initiative will help to prevent this infection, like:

• Quickly change out of damp clothing, such as swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes.
• Change socks and undergarments regularly.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Use gentle and scent-free soap on affected areas.
• Add probiotics to diet.
• Reduce the amount of sugar in diet.

Since abnormal blood sugar levels can contribute to the development of Candida infections, keeping blood sugar under control may also help relieve symptoms. Try to maintain low blood sugar by reducing the amount of sugar in diet and by exercising for 30 minutes at least three times per week. If have diabetes, it’s important to continue oral medications or an increased amount of insulin.

In severe or persistent cases of candidiasis, an antifungal cream or powder that can be applied to skin. Antifyngal creams that are often recommended include clotrimazole (Mycelex), miconazole (Monistat), and tioconazole (Vagistat). This type of treatment can kill Candida and reduce the spread of the infection.

Use an antifungal cream such as nystatin or ketoconazole if the previous treatments aren’t effective. If the infection has already spread to areas inside body, such as throat or mouth, may need to take an oral antifungal to get rid of it.

Cutaneous candidiasis (or candidiasis present on skin, nails, or hair) is a common occurrence in infants and babies.

Candidiasis-related diaper rash is one of the most frequently occurring candidiasis infections in babies. This rash is typically red with a well-defined border, and normally lasts more than three days. Treatment includes changing the infant’s diaper frequently and allowing them to wear loose-fitting clothes on top of the diaper. The antifungal nystatin may be prescribed.

Oral thrush is another common occurrence in newborns and infants under 6 months old. Symptoms can include cracked skin in the corners of the mouth and whitish patches on the lips, tongue, or inside of the cheeks. An antifungal medication that’s applied to the infant’s mouth several times a day.

Three out of four adult women will get at least one yeast infection during their lifetime. This occurs when too much yeast grows in the vagina. Men also can get a genital yeast infection, but it’s much less common.

A yeast infection typically happens when the balance in the vagina changes. This can be caused by pregnancy, diabetes, use of some medicines, lubricants, or spermicides, or a weakened immune system. Occasionally, the infection can be passed from person to person during sex.

Most times, antifungal suppository, tablet, or cream will knock out the infection. Use a single dose of a prescription antifungal medicine like fluconazole. If get yeast infections more than four times a year, need regular doses of antifungal medication over several months to fight the repeated infections.

Though diaper rashes are usually caused by leaving a wet or soiled diaper on too long, once baby’s skin is irritated, infection is more likely. If his diaper rash isn’t going away, check to see if his bottom is red and sensitive, and if there’s a raised red border around the sores. If so, have pediatrician check for candidiasis. It can be treated with an antifungal cream.

Keeping baby’s bottom clean and dry is a good start to help prevent diaper rash and candidiasis.

Invasive candidiasis is treated with an oral or intravenous dose of antifungal medication. If having surgery and have higher odds of a yeast infection, doctor might prescribe a series of antifungal medicines before the procedure.

To confirm the analyze, need to visit a doctor. See adoctor if believe baby has candidiasis.

Because the symptoms in women can be similar to other infections like bacterial vaginosis (bacterial overgrowth in the vagina) and sexually transmitted diseases, it’s important to visit a doctor.

If it spread in systemic, must consult with a doctor as soon as possible.

• ABC Of Dermatology
• Clinical Dermatology
• Roxburgh’s common skin diseases
• Andrew’s Diseases of the skin