Candidiasis (yeast or
thrush)is a common fungal infection found in people living with HIV. Candida albicans is the name of the organism that causes this.
What do I look for?
You may first notice a change in taste or
increased sensitivity to certain foods that contain acid, eg, tomatoes. If you look inside your mouth, you may see red, inflamed areas or white patches on your cheeks, tongue, roof of your mouth, or at the
back of your throat. Candida in the mouth is called Thrush. Ask your nurse or doctor how to examine your mouth. Candida may also occur in the esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach).
Candida in the esophagus usually starts as a sore throat. Food may seem to stick when you swallow, and you may have diffculty or pain when swallowing. Women may also get candida infections in the vagina. You
may notice itching or burning, followed by a white or yellow discharge from the vagina. This is commonly called a yeast infection. Your doctor may want a sample of this discharge for testing, to ensure
proper treatment. over... Candidiasis
Can candidiasis be prevented?
Although candidiasis cannot be prevented, the following suggestions may help to reduce pain and symptoms: Cut out very hot and
spicy foods from your diet. Cut out citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits) and acidic foods from your diet. Maintain good dental hygiene. Brush your teeth, gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush after
each meal and at bedtime. Eat soft food if you have pain or difficulty swallowing. Cut out alcohol or tobacco because they can irritate the inner lining of the mouth. Take medications as prescribed.
How is candidiasis treated?
Candidiasis itself is not a life-threatening condition but it can cause discomfort. Medications used to treat this include: nystatin (Nilstat or Mycostatin), an oral rinse
to swish and swallow. clotrimazole lozenges for the mouth, or suppositories that are inserted into the vagina ketoconazole (Nizoral), a pill or liquid taken by mouth fluconazole (Diflucan), a pill or powder
taken by mouth itraconazole (Sporanox), a pill or liquid taken by mouth amphoteracin B, a medication given through a vein. Following treatment, you may need to remain on one of these medications to control
the candidiasis from returning.
References
Grimes, D., and Grimes,R. (1994) AIDS and HIV Infection. Toronto: Mosby Co.
Whitehead, M. and Patterson, B. (1993)
Managing your health: A guide for people living with HIV or AIDS. Toronto: CATIE & Toronto People with AIDS Foundation.
