Which doctor treats thrush in men. Where is thrush treated and which doctor should I go to? Treatment of urogenital candidiasis by a doctor

Depending on the type of candidiasis, they resort to the help of a particular doctor. There are the following types of infection of the body:

inflammation of the mouth or stomatitis (treated by dentists if not part of a systemic lesion);
damage to the skin (patients turn to a dermatologist);
a change in the biocenosis of the vagina and the development of thrush (treated by a gynecologist);
damage to the external genital organs in women and men (treated by a dermatovenereologist, gynecologist or urologist);
intestinal damage or changes in the bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract (treated by a gastroenterologist);
disseminated damage to the body or candidal sepsis (different doctors treat, but the intervention of an infectious disease specialist and an immunologist is required).

Candidiasis can be acute or chronic and affect absolutely any organ. However, there are localizations in which you need to go to the doctor urgently with candidiasis. For example, respiratory tract infection indicates the presence of serious problems with the immune system and most often indirectly indicates HIV.

Causes of candidiasis

The fungus of the genus Candida belongs to the normal microflora human body, so there is no such thing as primary candidiasis. This disease is always a complication or a consequence of any pathological process in the body. Major risk factors for candidiasis:

congenital immunodeficiencies, such as DiGeorge syndrome;
acquired immunological pathologies (HIV, chronic infectious diseases in the stage of decompensation);
general depletion of the body;
long-term use of antibacterial drugs;
treatment with hormonal drugs or cytostatics.

If you see a doctor for the first time with candidiasis, then the patient missed the action of the provoking factor or ignored its importance.

How to recognize different types of candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a specific fungal infection that affects the mucous membranes internal organs and skin coverings. A specific symptom of any form of the disease is the presence of cheesy overlays, which consist of mycelium and fungal spores.

With the defeat of the skin of any localization, the following symptoms appear:

inflammation (redness, swelling, often burning or soreness);
sensation of itching in the area of infection;
skin maceration;
the appearance of foci of baldness (not necessarily on the head, but also on any affected area);
the formation of paronychia and hyperkeratosis on the nails;
subfebrile fever (temperature rarely rises to high numbers).

In addition to skin lesions, superficial infection of the mucous membranes joins. For example, intestinal candidiasis is manifested by a typical clinic of dysbacteriosis, and an accurate diagnosis can only be made after a specific bacteriological study. Infection of the oral cavity is accompanied by cracks and ulcers on the mucous membranes. When the disease spreads to the respiratory tract or esophagus, there are symptoms of shortness of breath, dysphagia, pain syndrome. If the fungus penetrates the lungs or bronchi, then a cough appears.

The doctor treating candidiasis must always distinguish the primary cause of the pathology. The most common disease is considered to be HIV infection at the terminal stage of AIDS. In this situation, the fungus affects the entire body, while the doctor must, first of all, increase the number of human lymphocytes, and not eliminate the opportunistic infection, which may be several at once.

Features of the diagnosis of the disease

Regardless of the severity and localization of the pathological process, candidiasis is diagnosed by a doctor in only one way - by identifying the pathogen. To do this, a smear or scraping is taken from the affected area and a cultural study is carried out, during which mushrooms are grown. However, to prove that the patient is suffering from candidiasis is not the primary goal of the doctor. The main thing is to establish the root cause of the problem in order to correctly adjust the therapy.

Regardless of whether a generalist or a narrow specialist is treating candidiasis, the following diagnostic measures may be additionally prescribed:

general blood analysis;
clinical analysis of urine (the doctor prescribes additional tests if there is an infection of the genitourinary system);
serological studies for the presence of various sluggish infections;
chest x-ray to rule out tuberculosis;
testing for HIV infection.

Often, patients with candidiasis are treated by several doctors at once, with the exception of common situations: thrush, intestinal dysbacteriosis, stomatitis in children.

How does a doctor treat candidiasis?

In women and men, candidiasis is treated by a doctor with the same drugs. Specific antifungal agents are used, of which there are not so many in the doctor's arsenal. Most effective tool considered Nystatin, which is produced in various forms. Additional drugs, but less effective against Candida, are Ketoconazole and Fluconazole. In severe cases, intravenous injections of Amfortericin are used.

Depending on the localization, various routes of drug administration are used.:

oral candidiasis is treated by a doctor with the help of rinsing;
damage to the genital organs requires the use of candles;
dysbacteriosis is treated with systemic drugs, sometimes with rectal suppositories;
skin lesions are treated with ointments.

System reception medicines it is not always required, so the doctor decides on the appointment of tablets or injections on an individual basis. This takes into account the severity of the patient and associated risk factors.

If you are worried about unbearable itching in the genital area, and curdled abundant discharge appeared on your underwear, then most likely you have aggravated thrush, and which doctor can help in this situation?

When diagnosed with thrush, the doctor - the answer is not unequivocal. Because a specialist for consultation on the definition and treatment of candidiasis must be selected depending on age, gender and the organ where an outbreak of uncontrolled growth of a fungal infection is observed.

For example, if Candida microorganisms have affected the gastrointestinal tract, then a gastroenterologist will help in this situation. With fungal stomatitis - a consultation with a dentist will come in handy.

The answer to the question of a strong half of humanity with a diagnosis of candidiasis: “Which doctor will be able to help?” Will be an andrologist. This is a purely male doctor who treats diseases of the genital organs in men - the penis, prostate gland (prostate), scrotum, as well as other systems and organs interconnected with them.

Who will come to the aid of women if they had to face unpleasant symptoms diseases thrush - a gynecologist in a antenatal clinic will successfully cope with this common ailment. After all, a gynecologist is a specialist who practices diagnostics, drug therapy and prevention of diseases of the female reproductive system and genital organs.

With symptoms of candidiasis in girls, which most often begin to bother a child at the age of four (although a fungal infection was introduced during childbirth from a sick mother), you can also contact a pediatric gynecologist. The doctor, having examined the genitals of the child, will prescribe the correct therapy, thereby preventing the occurrence of a chronic form.

If you are faced with the choice “Candidiasis, which doctor should I go to?” The urologist will help to solve the problem. But before you make an appointment with a specialist, you need to take into account some features of this area of \u200b\u200bmedicine. Urology combines several related disciplines: gynecology, andrology and pediatrics and is subdivided into male, female, pediatric and geriatric urology.

Therefore, when choosing a doctor and booking an appointment ticket at the reception, do not forget to specify which specialist you need. A child diagnosed with candidiasis - a pediatric urologist will be able to help the best, although the local pediatrician can also cope with this infection. If a recurrent fungal infection is caused by hormonal age-related changes, then a specialist in geriatric urology will be most competent in getting rid of thrush in an elderly patient.

Where else can candidiasis be treated? The answer lies on the surface. Skin and venereal dispensary - a medical institution where they are involved in finding out and eliminating the causes of skin diseases (including genital, venereal infections). A dermatovenereologist deals with the treatment of thrush, both in men and women.

Whichever of the above doctors you come to, everywhere you can be provided with professional qualified assistance in getting rid of the symptoms of thrush. During the examination and treatment of recurrent, advanced infection, it may be necessary to consult a mycologist (specialist in the treatment of fungal infections) and an immunologist. After all, candidiasis is an ailment that most often occurs when the protective functions of the body are weakened.

Is it possible to wash with thrush?
In the treatment of fungal infection, disease-causing candidiasis, occupies a special place intimate hygiene. And neglect...

Mushrooms of the genus Candida are opportunistic agents that are always close to a person, but cause disease only in the event of a drop in immunity. It is difficult to answer the question of which doctor treats candidiasis of the oral cavity and other organs, since in a particular clinical case, the help of various specialists may be needed.

Depending on the type of candidiasis, they resort to the help of a particular doctor. There are the following types of infection of the body:

inflammation of the mouth or stomatitis (treated by dentists if not part of a systemic lesion);
damage to the skin (patients turn to a dermatologist);
a change in the biocenosis of the vagina and the development of thrush (treated by a gynecologist);
damage to the external genital organs in women and men (treated by a dermatovenereologist, gynecologist or urologist);
intestinal damage or changes in the bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract (treated by a gastroenterologist);
disseminated damage to the body or candidal sepsis (different doctors treat, but the intervention of an infectious disease specialist and an immunologist is required).

The fungus of the genus Candida belongs to the normal microflora of the human body, so there is no such thing as primary candidiasis. This disease is always a complication or a consequence of any pathological process in the body. Major risk factors for candidiasis:

congenital immunodeficiencies, such as DiGeorge syndrome;
acquired immunological pathologies (HIV, chronic infectious diseases in the stage of decompensation);
general depletion of the body;
long-term use of antibacterial drugs;
treatment with hormonal drugs or cytostatics.

If you see a doctor for the first time with candidiasis, then the patient missed the action of the provoking factor or ignored its importance.

How to recognize different types of candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a specific fungal infection that affects the mucous membranes of the internal organs and the skin. A specific symptom of any form of the disease is the presence of cheesy overlays, which consist of mycelium and fungal spores.

With the defeat of the skin of any localization, the following symptoms appear:

inflammation (redness, swelling, often burning or soreness);
sensation of itching in the area of infection;
skin maceration;
the appearance of foci of baldness (not necessarily on the head, but also on any affected area);
the formation of paronychia and hyperkeratosis on the nails;
subfebrile fever (temperature rarely rises to high numbers).

In addition to skin lesions, superficial infection of the mucous membranes joins. For example, intestinal candidiasis is manifested by a typical clinic of dysbacteriosis, and an accurate diagnosis can only be made after a specific bacteriological study. Infection of the oral cavity is accompanied by cracks and ulcers on the mucous membranes. When the disease spreads to the respiratory tract or esophagus, dyspnea, dysphagia, and pain occur. If the fungus penetrates the lungs or bronchi, then a cough appears.

Features of the diagnosis of the disease

Regardless of whether a generalist or a narrow specialist is treating candidiasis, the following diagnostic measures may be additionally prescribed:

general blood analysis;
clinical analysis of urine (the doctor prescribes additional tests if there is an infection of the genitourinary system);
serological studies for the presence of various sluggish infections;
chest x-ray to rule out tuberculosis;
testing for HIV infection.

Often, patients with candidiasis are treated by several doctors at once, with the exception of common situations: thrush, intestinal dysbacteriosis, stomatitis in children.

How does a doctor treat candidiasis?

In women and men, candidiasis is treated by a doctor with the same drugs. Specific antifungal agents are used, of which there are not so many in the doctor's arsenal. The most effective remedy is Nystatin, which is produced in various forms. Additional drugs, but less effective against Candida, are Ketoconazole and Fluconazole. In severe cases, intravenous injections of Amfortericin are used.

Depending on the localization, various routes of drug administration are used.:

oral candidiasis is treated by a doctor with the help of rinsing;
damage to the genital organs requires the use of candles;
dysbacteriosis is treated with systemic drugs, sometimes with rectal suppositories;
skin lesions are treated with ointments.

Systemic medication is not always required, so the doctor decides on the appointment of tablets or injections on an individual basis. This takes into account the severity of the patient and associated risk factors.

Which doctor should I contact for candidiasis?

Such a common pathology as candidiasis occurs in women, men and children. Therefore, different doctors treat thrush depending on location, gender and age. The doctor will correctly determine the cause of the disease, select the appropriate medications with minimal side effects.

Causes and symptoms of candidiasis

Causes of the disease

Candidiasis is caused by a yeast-like fungus of the genus Candida. These fungi create conditionally pathogenic microflora. In the presence of additional factors, fungi multiply. This is how candidiasis occurs in humans. Causes of thrush:

high humidity and temperature;
harmful working conditions;
malnutrition (a lot of sugar and sweets);
uncontrolled medication (antibiotics, hormones, cytostatics, corticosteroids);
chronic diseases;
metabolic disorders;
overwork and stress at work;
climate change;
carbohydrate diet;
injury to the mucous membranes;
sexual contact with a carrier of the fungus (with urogenital candidiasis);
from an infected mother to a child;
contact-household way;
transmission of infection from animals to humans;
through the consumption of candida-contaminated foods.

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Symptoms of the disease

The symptomatology of candidomycosis depends on the location of the infection, which determines the specialization of the doctor to whom you need to contact with complaints. The main symptoms are summarized in the table:

Which specialist is responsible for what?

Depending on which organ is infected with thrush, you should contact a specialist of a particular profile. The doctor treats candidiasis based on personal specialization. With candidiasis, it is necessary to visit such diagnosticians:

Cutaneous candidiasis

The superficial form of thrush affects the skin, mucous membranes, oral cavity, nails, genital area, interdigital zone. Large skin folds are the first to be affected. If symptoms of candidiasis are detected, it is important to immediately consult a dermatologist. A specialist in this category treats the skin, mucous membranes, hair and nails. He will prescribe a cream, solution or ointment based on verified blood tests, scrapings from the affected areas. Recommended medicines are Pimafucin, Canison or Orungal.

intestinal candidiasis

If you have symptoms of intestinal thrush, you need to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist. Intestinal candidiasis is a consequence of an imbalance in the work of the gastrointestinal tract as a result of the active reproduction of fungi. After the endoscopy, the doctor will prescribe treatment. It is important to eliminate the inflammatory process in the intestines. The gastroenterologist prescribes antimycotic drugs like Nystatin, Levorin.

Oral thrush

Candidiasis stomatitis more often affects young children, women who smoke, as well as people who wear dentures, and the elderly. If symptoms of the disease appear, you will need the help of a dentist. If a child gets sick, it is better to contact a pediatric dentist. The disease should not be treated on its own. It can be confused with other ailments. For example, with candidomycosis, tonsils, palate, and gums are covered with white bloom, as with tonsillitis. For the treatment of thrush in the mouth, the mycologist prescribes antimycotics. The use of "Nystatin", "Natamycin", "Lugol" is allowed no more than 21 days.

Thrush in men

A urologist will help to cure urogenital candidiasis in men. He will examine the penis and take a swab to establish an accurate diagnosis. It is better to do bacteriological research. After the sowing has matured in a special environment, the amount of the fungus can be accurately determined. Urologists determine the susceptibility of the fungus to antimycotic agents. If the urologist detects a fungal infection, then treatment by a dermatovenereologist will be needed.

Which doctor should a woman with candidiasis consult?

If a woman has symptoms of vaginal or urogenital thrush, then a gynecologist will help. When examined on a gynecological chair, the gynecologist will take a swab from the vagina. In the laboratory, bakposev will be done, which will allow you to calculate the exact amount of the fungus of the genus Candida, and the degree of damage by the fungus. Based on the results of a bacteriological study, the gynecologist will prescribe an adequate treatment for candidomycosis.

Candidiasis, which doctor to contact

Candidiasis is a disease in which the skin and mucous membranes are damaged, caused by microscopic yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida.

This pathology owes its second name (thrush) to one of the characteristic symptoms - white discharge.

Depending on the location of the lesion, a dermatologist, gynecologist and urologist are involved in the treatment of candidiasis.

Candida fungi: from conditionally pathogenic to pathogenic

These single-celled oval or round-shaped microorganisms are present in the normal microflora of most healthy people. They are well protected from external factors and feel quite comfortable at the temperature of the human body.

The very presence of Candida fungi in the body does not equate to a disease: the development of the pathological process begins if, under the influence of any factors, the fungi begin to actively multiply.

In most cases, this is due to a decrease in immunity.

Causes of candidiasis

Intensive reproduction of the fungus can provoke a variety of factors:

Prolonged hypothermia or, conversely, being in a too hot and humid climate.
Illness, especially if antibacterial drugs are used in its treatment.
Strong stress.
Changes in the hormonal background (with endocrine disorders, the use of hormonal drugs, during pregnancy).
Choosing underwear that is not the right size or made from synthetic materials.

Types and symptoms of candidiasis

The manifestations of the disease are very diverse and depend on the specific place of development of the inflammatory process.

oral candidiasis

Oral candidiasis is most common in childhood. It is manifested by redness of the mucous membranes of the throat, gums and tongue. Puffiness develops. With the development of the disease on the oral mucosa, areas of white plaque are formed, which have a curdled consistency. If treatment measures are not taken, their number grows, erosion occurs under the plaque.

With the transition of oral candidiasis to a chronic form, damage to the mucous membranes of the nose, pharynx and esophagus is possible.

Candidiasis of the skin

Fungal pathology can spread in the folds of the skin: in the armpits, under the mammary glands. The folds between the fingers and toes are affected. In some cases, there is a lesion of the skin outside the folds.

The disease manifests itself in the form of small bubbles. Separate areas merge, forming the affected areas. Peeling of the skin, cracks, itching is noted between the fingers of the extremities. Outwardly, the palms become similar to burnt ones.

genital candidiasis

This type of disease affects the external organs of the reproductive system: in women - the vaginal mucosa, in the stronger sex - the glans penis and foreskin. A striking sign of the disease is abundant white curdled discharge, accompanied by itching. During intimate contact and during urination, there are unpleasant sensations.

Candidiasis with localization in the intestine

Most often occurs as a result of transferred intestinal infections and the use of antibacterial drugs. In children, this condition can be triggered by malnutrition.

Intestinal candidiasis is manifested by pain in the abdomen, flatulence, diarrhea, the presence of white cheesy flakes in the feces.

candidiasis in women

To a greater extent, candidiasis of the genital organs occurs among women: about 75% of them once encountered its symptoms. In half of the affected women, the disease relapsed.

Candidiasis in women makes itself felt by the following symptoms:

noticeable milky-white curdled discharge from the vagina with an unpleasant odor;
a feeling of itching, irritation, burning, most noticeable after urination and water procedures, as well as before menstruation;
soreness during and after intimate contact.

If a woman ignores such manifestations, the disease can spread to the region of the inguinal folds, affects the mucous membranes of the vagina and, in some cases, the vaginal region of the cervix.

candidiasis and pregnancy

About 90% of pregnant women suffer from the disease. Such a high prevalence of thrush during pregnancy is due to the fact that in the female body during this period there are processes that give impetus to the active reproduction of the Candida fungus: the hormonal background changes, the body's defense mechanisms decrease, and there is a lack of vitamins and minerals.

Despite the fact that the disease is diagnosed in the vast majority of pregnant women, a frivolous attitude towards it is unacceptable.

There is a threat of transmission of the Candida fungus to the fetus. This can happen not only during the passage of the child through the birth canal, but also in utero.
Infection with a fungus creates conditions for the development of intrauterine oxygen deficiency in the fetus.
The risk of preterm birth and the birth of a baby with low body weight increases.
There is a threat of the formation of polyhydramnios and early outflow of amniotic fluid.

candidiasis in men

Representatives of the stronger sex are much less susceptible to the incidence of candidiasis compared to women. This is due to the anatomical features of the male body.

hitting male body, thrush manifests itself as follows:

There is swelling and redness in the region of the glans penis and foreskin.
When urinating, burning and soreness is felt.
During erection, intimate contact and after it, pain occurs.
A white cheesy coating with a sour smell appears.

The lack of proper treatment in men leads to the development of candidal balanitis (lesion of the glans penis) and balanoposthitis (inflammatory process of the foreskin).

About the features of the disease and common myths associated with thrush, see this video:

Treatment of candidiasis

The process of getting rid of unpleasant manifestations begins with a diagnosis. After examining the patient, a bacterial culture is prescribed - a method that allows you to determine the causative agent of the disease.

During the study, a scraping is taken from the mucous membrane at the site of the lesion. The material is placed in a special environment for several days, where the fungus grows, forming colonies. Based on the data obtained, a final diagnosis is made and a treatment regimen is prescribed.

Drug therapy for candidiasis

For any type of localization of the lesion, complex treatment is required:

Normalization of the immune system: restoration of intestinal microflora, the use of immunomodulators.

Elimination of local manifestations of the disease: ointments, suppositories, creams, vaginal tablets (Clotrimazole, Pimafucin, Miconazole).

Systemic treatment: tablets or capsules taken by mouth (Diflucan).

The process of getting rid of thrush during pregnancy is different from the treatment of this disease in patients of other categories. First of all, it is necessary to exclude the possibility of adverse effects of drugs on the fetus. Therefore, local agents with low toxicity and absorption are prescribed, with a minimum number of side effects.

candidiasis and diet

Human immunity largely depends on the state of the intestinal microflora. With an existing fungal disease, it is almost always broken. Therefore, in order to speed up recovery, it is important to follow a diet, which is an element of the overall treatment.

It is necessary to exclude from the menu products containing a large number of simple carbohydrates: confectionery, sweets, honey, sweet fruits and packaged juices, alcohol.

The use of pasta and starchy vegetables is subject to restriction: potatoes, carrots, pumpkins.
It is recommended to give preference to low-fat varieties of meat and fish, stewed, boiled and baked vegetables.
To normalize the intestinal microflora, you need to include fermented milk products in the menu.

Alternative methods in the treatment of candidiasis

A lot is known folk ways getting rid of unpleasant manifestations, however, it should be remembered that they are auxiliary and often minimize pathological symptoms without eliminating the cause of the disease.

2 tablespoons of dry calendula (flowers) pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 40 minutes to infuse. Strained agent is recommended to wash the genitals. In addition to calendula, celandine, chamomile, oak bark, yarrow can be used for these purposes.
Baking soda is a common way to treat candidiasis at home. This substance adversely affects the habitat of the fungus. Dilute 2 tablespoons of soda in a liter boiled water. With this solution, you can wash the genital area daily (it is better to do the procedure in the evening). It is important not to leave excess moisture on the genitals after it.

In women, soda procedures should be carried out with caution: this can provoke disturbances in the vaginal microflora.

Which doctor treats candidiasis

The choice of a specialist in case of suspected candidiasis depends on the localization of the lesion.

If the pathological process has affected the genitals, the treatment is carried out by a gynecologist in women, a urologist - in the representatives of the stronger sex.

With thrush in the oral cavity in children, you should contact your pediatrician and pediatric dentist.

Skin forms of the disease require an appeal to a dermatologist or dermatovenereologist.

In case of symptoms of candidiasis of the digestive system, a consultation with a gastroenterologist is necessary.

Candidiasis is not a deadly disease, but its manifestations should not be ignored: often a fungal infection indicates hidden negative processes occurring in the body. In addition, advanced forms of the disease significantly reduce the quality of life and can provoke serious complications.

Which doctor treats candidiasis?

Yeast fungi from the genus Candida (Candida albicans) are very widespread. They live on almost all surfaces of the human body.

Their reproduction is restrained by immunity, therefore, when the protective forces are weakened, the number of fungi increases like an avalanche. This pathology is called candidiasis and doctors of almost all specialties face it.

Where can candidiasis develop?

The main responsibility for curbing the uncontrolled reproduction of candida is borne by antibodies (mainly IgA immunoglobulins), which are saturated with the mucous membranes of the body.

Local, temporary decreases in the level of these antibodies occur in almost all people. Fortunately, most of these episodes are short-lived and with the restoration of immunity, everything returns to normal. It is likely that each person has had at least one episode of candidiasis with spontaneous recovery or with the help of treatment from a doctor.

Localization of processes is the most diverse:

Vagina and vulva.
Male reproductive organs.
The skin of the limbs - feet, hands.
Nail plates.
Oral cavity.
Digestive tract - esophagus, intestines.
Generalized candidal lesion of several parts of the body is a phenomenon characteristic of people with profound immunodeficiency.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to provide accurate data on the occurrence of individual types of fungal invasions. Since 1999, the statistical record of candidal processes has been cancelled. This in itself indicates extremely high incidence rates.

Candidiasis of the genital organs in women - which doctor treats?

Perhaps the most common is a lesion of the vagina (thrush). In such cases, many women do not even wonder which doctor treats vaginal candidiasis, but go to the nearest pharmacy and purchase suppositories with an antifungal component.

This behavior is too frivolous, as a number of important issues are not resolved:

Finding out the cause of the pathology.
Associated genital infections.
General condition of the microflora of the vagina.
Severity and activity of candidiasis.

Self-treatment of thrush during pregnancy is especially dangerous, since fungi can infect the baby during childbirth or even lead to pathology of gestation. Therefore, when symptoms of candidal vulvovaginitis appear, it is necessary to appear to gynecologists. It is these specialists who carry out an accurate diagnosis of the process, prescribe pathogenetic treatment and confirm recovery.

Candidiasis of the male genital organs - which doctor treats?

With candidiasis on the penis or genital skin in men, the most sought-after doctor is a dermatovenereologist. Fortunately, the symptoms, as they say, are in plain sight:

Redness of the head.
White loose plaque with a sour smell.
Swelling of the foreskin.
Pain and burning in the affected parts of the genitals.

A common cause of the disease is untreated candidal processes in a sexual partner. Sometimes such patients seek to get an appointment with a urologist, but this is a doctor of a surgical specialty. Yes, the doctor will be able to give practical recommendations, but it is still more correct to contact a dermatovenereologist.

Which doctor treats skin and nail lesions with candidiasis?

For fungi of the genus Candida, such localization is not very typical, but it occurs. And most often - against the background of a weakening of the body's immune forces.

The characteristic symptoms of candidiasis of the skin or nails are not expressed. Therefore, what kind of fungus caused the lesion should be dealt with by a dermatologist.

Typical signs are:

White loose coating on separate surfaces of the limbs or trunk.
Severe itching, burning in these places.
After removing the plaque, a hyperemic surface with areas of erosion remains.
Deformation, brittleness, discoloration of one or more nails.

To clarify the diagnosis, specific studies are required - scraping and microscopy of the affected area, culture. They are carried out in the laboratory of the first and second levels in the direction of a doctor.

Which doctor treats candidiasis in the mouth

In this section of the digestive tract, very favorable conditions for the life and reproduction of candida.

And here there is a significant load on the humoral link of immunity, which often “sags”. As for the question, To what doctor address With candidiasis oral cavity, then everything is not so simple. The obvious decision suggests itself - to the dentist.

However, with candidal lesions of the oral cavity, ENT organs often suffer: the larynx, pharynx. Therefore, with suspicion of candidal stomatitis (burning, redness, pain and white plaque), it does not hurt to first appear to the therapist. Already from him you can get a referral to a specialized specialist: an otolaryngologist, dentist or even a gastroenterologist.

Candidiasis of the esophagus and intestines - which doctor should I contact?

In a healthy person, these parts of the digestive system are covered with candida only in the presence of foci of chronic candidal infection. Most often, these are self-treated cases of thrush.

Symptoms of candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract do not allow suspecting fungi, and therefore, in such situations, patients, deciding which doctor to go to, choose a gastroenterologist.

Complaints really indicate problems with digestion:

Pain when swallowing.
Burning sensation in the esophagus (as in heartburn).
Bloating.
Cutting in epigastrium and around umbilicus.
Liquid stool.
Admixture of blood in the stool.

When examining the stool, many yeast fungi are found. And instead of drugs of a gastroenterological profile, antifungal drugs are prescribed.

The task of treating such patients is most often assigned to therapists.

Generalized forms of candidiasis and their treatment

Generalization - means the simultaneous defeat of several anatomically heterogeneous departments by candida. For example, the genitals and skin of the limbs or the oral cavity, genitals and intestines.

In the vast majority of such cases, the cause of generalization is a pronounced weakening of immunity in AIDS. These patients are treated by doctors of various specialties, the main of which is an infectious disease specialist.

Candidiasis is diverse and the choice of which doctor to contact when problems arise affects the health of men, women and even children. In case of any doubt, consult an available general practitioner. And this doctor will already refer you to specialized specialists.

The main thing is that you can’t sit at home and buy medicines on your own: without establishing an accurate diagnosis and monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment process.

Self-medication will only lead to poor health and the spread of candida.

Candidiasis is a disease in which the skin and mucous membranes are damaged, caused by microscopic yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida.

This pathology owes its second name (thrush) to one of the characteristic symptoms - white discharge.

Depending on the localization of the site of the lesion, the urologist is also involved in the treatment of candidiasis.

Candida fungi: from conditionally pathogenic to pathogenic

In most cases, this is due to a decrease in immunity.

The onset of the disease does not indicate a change in the properties of the fungus, but changes in the state of the body, in particular, a sharp decrease in its defense mechanisms.

Causes of candidiasis

Intensive reproduction of the fungus can provoke a variety of factors:

Prolonged hypothermia or, conversely, being in a too hot and humid climate.
Illness, especially if antibacterial drugs are used in its treatment.
Strong stress.
Change of hormonal background (with endocrine disorders, the use of hormonal drugs, during pregnancy).
Choosing underwear that is not the right size or made from synthetic materials.

In case of symptoms of candidiasis of the digestive system, a consultation with a gastroenterologist is necessary.

Candidiasis is not a deadly disease, but its manifestations should not be ignored: often a fungal infection indicates hidden negative processes occurring in the body. In addition, advanced forms of the disease significantly reduce the quality of life and can provoke serious complications.

In order to understand which doctor treats thrush and which specialist should be consulted for help, you must first understand the nature of this pathological condition.

Thrush is a fungal disease that is caused by a microscopic yeast fungus of the genus Candida, namely Candida albicans. The scientific name for a group of diseases caused by the genus Candida is candidiasis or candidiasis.

These fungi are one of the many components of the natural microflora of the oral cavity, respiratory tract, large intestine and vagina of absolutely healthy people. These are conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, i.e. under normal, normal conditions do not cause disease. But if their number increases, candida can become a source of many troubles.

Introduction to fungi

For the first time, a fungus of the genus Candida was detected in the placenta, membranes of the umbilical cord and amniotic fluid of the fetus of an infected woman in labor.

Bacterial candidiasis

Quite often, the first acquaintance with fungi of the genus Candida occurs in utero. If this did not happen, then the first contact of the newborn with the fungus can occur during the passage of the birth canal, later - upon contact with the skin of the hands. On the mucous membrane of the mouth candida can get from the surface of the nipple of an infected mother during breastfeeding or with contaminated food. Infection with yeast fungi in the first year of life is confirmed by the appearance of characteristic rashes on the mucous membranes of the cheeks and gums.

The first thing that comes to mind when we hear the diagnosis "thrush" is the problem of many women with localization in the genital area. We also mention thrush in women as the most common side effect when taking antibiotics a wide range actions. To some extent, this is true, but in fact, candidiasis can affect absolutely any part of the body, cause pathologies of internal organs, and equally in both women and men.

Favorable living conditions

What conditions are favorable for an increase in the population of fungi:

violation of the body's resistance systems and reduced immunity;
hormonal changes due to various physiological conditions or the use of hormonal drugs;
dysbiosis;
metabolic disorders and endocrine diseases;
violations of the integrity of the mucous membranes;
taking antibiotics or cytostatics;
taking contraceptives;
venereal diseases;
acute and chronic diseases of the genitourinary system;
tuberculosis;
HIV AIDS;
a large number and frequent change of sexual partners;
hot and humid climate;
work in damp or damp rooms;
contact with concentrated chemicals or work in a chemical industry.

How is thrush transmitted

We have already found out that thrush can be transmitted from mother to child in utero and during the first bodily contact. The most common route of transmission of candidiasis is sexual. Although thrush is a sexually transmitted disease, it is not a sexually transmitted disease.

You can also become infected with candidiasis by contact and household contact, for example, through bed linen, when visiting public baths, etc. In addition to people, young pets and birds can be carriers of the infection.

Candida is widespread in the environment, often found in vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and raw meat.

Foci of localization of thrush

There are two main types of thrush, depending on the affected organs.

Superficial candidiasis - only external organs are affected.
Systemic - the disease is much more severe, with damage to internal organs. The genitourinary system, digestive tract and mucous membranes of the respiratory tract are most often affected.

Forms of the disease

Regardless of localization, thrush has three forms: acute, chronic and carriage.

Carrier (or candidiasis) is the easiest form. It proceeds in the body hidden, without any clinical manifestations. For a healthy person, such candidiasis is not dangerous, since a strong immune system does not allow the disease to develop. Candidiasis can be determined only with the help of tests. If fungi of the genus Candida are found in large numbers in a pregnant woman, she must undergo a course of treatment in order to protect the child from infection.
The acute form is the most common form of candidiasis. It is divided into simple (not complicated) and complicated.
The simple form is accompanied by itching, cheesy discharge or plaque, and other characteristic signs.
Complicated form - develops against the background of significantly reduced immunity, the presence in the body of a still complete infection and inflammatory processes.
Chronic candidiasis is candidiasis that does not respond to treatment for a long time (more than three months). Periodic relapses of the disease are characteristic, provoked by hypothermia, colds, menstruation, climate change, etc. Mostly people with very low immunity, who have AIDS or oncopathology, suffer.

Symptoms of thrush in women and men

In men, thrush occurs almost imperceptibly, while women notice the presence of symptoms, but do not always attach importance to this. In the acute form of urogenital disease, in both cases, the presence of:

redness and swelling of the foreskin or mucous membranes of the vagina;
burning sensations, itching and discomfort;
the appearance of a white coating or discharge, similar to cottage cheese, with a mild smell of sour milk.

When these symptoms appear, women should consult a gynecologist, and men a urologist, for examination and taking smears to confirm the diagnosis.

Different diseases - different doctors

In addition to the urogenital form, other types of candidiasis are quite common in both women and men. Which doctor will deal with the treatment of candidiasis depends on the type of fungal infection of the body.

Skin candidiasis - swelling, itching, redness of the skin and a characteristic rash appear in the armpits, inguinal folds and in the anus. The dermatovenereologist is engaged in the treatment of the skin form of thrush. Also, a dermatologist or dermatovenereologist should be contacted for another, fairly common form of fungal infection - candidiasis of the nails. It is characterized by thinning of the nail plates, which easily exfoliate and even crumble, as well as reddening of the nail folds. Timely access to a doctor and adequate therapy will help to quickly get rid of these problems.
intestinal candidiasis. The extreme parts of the colon are most often affected. In this case, the patient suffers from flatulence, periodic diarrhea, the appearance of white plaque or white patches in the stool. The treatment of intestinal candidiasis is done by a gastroenterologist.
Thrush of the mucous membranes of the mouth often affects children due to a violation of the microflora of the oral cavity. The disease is characterized by the presence of white plaque, swelling and redness of the mucous membranes. The problem of treating oral thrush (fungal stomatitis) is the prerogative of a dentist or general practitioner.
As mentioned earlier, the most difficult to treat is the chronic form with a systemic lesion of the body against the background of significant suppression of the immune system. In this case, the treatment is complex, it is carried out by an infectious disease specialist and an immunologist.

Thrush, like any disease, should be taken seriously and not self-medicate. A timely visit to a doctor will allow you to stop the disease at its very beginning and avoid unpleasant complications and relapses.