Candidiasis : Causes
Candidiasis cannot be caught. The yeast is already there.There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of yeast overgrowth. One of the most common causes is the overuse of antibiotics. In order to live on us, yeasts have to compete with various other organisms, the majority of which are bacteria. These bacteria, which thrive on the skin, in the intestine and in the vagina, among other places, are harmless but effectively fight yeasts. When antibiotics are prescribed to kill more harmful bacteria, they also kill harmless bacteria. Yeasts that are not affected by antibiotics spread to places left vacant by bacteria, and begin to grow and multiply.
Steroids and some cancer drugs weaken the immune system and can promote yeast overgrowth. Infections of the mouth with Candida albicans (also known as oral thrush ) most often affect people with diseases such as cancer and AIDS. People with diabetes and those who wear dentures that cause chronic irritation are also more susceptible to oral thrush. Taking oral contraceptives increases the risk of developing vaginal candidiasis. Hot temperatures, poor hygiene, and tight clothing are also risk factors, as they create the ideal environment for candida.
Other factors that promote the overgrowth of Candida include obesity and pregnancy. The yeast usually infects the intertriginous regions , that is, the places where the skin is in contact with itself. Overweight people have more skin folds. They also sweat more than others, and Candida albicans likes wet skin. Pregnancy increases estrogen levels, which increases the risk of infection.
Candidiasis is not considered a sexually transmitted infection because it is unlikely that an infected woman will transmit it to her sexual partner. However, if the infection continues to recur, the sexual partner may also undergo treatment.
