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Thrush (candidiasis)DescriptionThrush (also known as Candidiasis) is an infection caused by a yeast called Candida Albicans. TransmissionIt is normal to have small amounts of this yeast in the genital area but a range of factors can cause the yeast to overgrow. These factors can include recent antibiotics, soaps and detergents and tight clothing that promotes excessive sweating. Signs and SymptomsThrush can appear on the mouth or your dick and sometime in your arse. It is not an STI but is sometimes related to sex. Symptoms include redness, rash or itching on the part of the body infected. Thrush is more likely to occur if you are HIV positive. Thrush is diagnosed by a simple genital examination but can be confirmed by a swab collected from the infected area. TreatmentThrush is treated with anti-fungal creams or tablets. If You’re HIV PositiveThrush on the cock, balls arse and throat are more common and more severe for people with HIV. Some oral anti-fungal treatments can interact badly with HIV meds so always check with your HIV doctor. PreventionTo avoid recurrences uncircumcised men should wash (with water only) and dry under their foreskin daily. It may also help to wear light cotton underwear and to avoid tight restrictive clothing. View example (Warning: graphic images) This page last updated 23 July 2008 |
