WHAT IS CANDIDA?
Thrush is a yeast infection caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. Both men and women can get thrush though it is more often associated with women.
The medical term for thrush is candidiasis.
WHAT CAUSES THRUSH?
The fungus candida albicans occurs naturally in your body, particularly in warm, moist areas, such as inside the mouth and around the genitals. It does not usually cause problems because it is kept under control by your immune system and other types of bacteria in the body.
However, certain conditions can cause the fungus to multiply and lead to infection. You are more likely to be at risk of thrush if you:
-Have a weakened immune system (HIV positive)
-Are obese, with large rolls of skin
-Have diabetes – as the high levels of glucose associated with diabetes can encourage the fungus to breed; a person with diabetes tend to sweat more creating a perfect breeding environment for the fungus
HOW TO TREAT OR PREVENT THRUSH?
You can treat thrush without prescription medications.
For thrush affecting your penis ask your chemist for a tablet called fluconazole. For thrush infections in your groin or elsewhere the chemist can supply a cream or ointment.
It is possible for thrush to spread during sex, but it is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). However both sexual partners may need thrush treatment to prevent re-infection. Seek advice about this from a pharmacist or your GP.
Not all cases are caused in this way and many cases develop in men and women who are not sexually active.
You can help prevent thrush by cleaning your penis regularly and using a condom while having sex with your partner (if they have thrush).
Avoid using perfumed shower gels or soaps on your genitals, as they can cause irritation. Make sure you dry your penis properly after washing.
Wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear can help prevent moisture building up under your foreskin, which lowers the chances of the candida fungus multiplying.
more information is available at www.nhs.uk
