Understand why candidiasis appears more frequently during the summer

Understand why candidiasis appears more frequently during the summer


With symptoms such as irritation and itching, candidiasis is a problem that affects around 75% of women.

Only a few days left official arrival of summer, but the thermometers already behave as if we were in the hottest season of the year. And with the heat comes tanning, lighter clothes, brighter days and also a problem that afflicts 75% of women: candidiasis.




Known as they appear frequently this time of yearVulvovaginal candidiasis is a pathology caused by fungi of this genus Candida. And one of the reasons is wearing heavier clothing for long periods, as well as excessive use of pools and beaches on days with high temperatures.

But these are not the only reasons. Allergist and immunologist Brianna Nicoletti explains that “vaginal infection from candida albicans It is associated with situations of body weakness, high glycogen content (derived from sugars) and vaginal acidity.” Therefore, immunosuppressive diseases, diabetes and chronic corticosteroid use they are also risk factors for candidiasis.

Furthermore, the use of some antibiotics, which according to studies tend to suppress the vaginal flora, favors colonization and infection by fungi.

Now, when it comes to hormones, the chance of developing the disease also increases. According to the doctor, the excess progesterone in the body it increases the availability of glycogen in the vaginal environment and serves as a food source for the growth and germination of yeast.

On the other hand, the excess estrogen it can also increase the chances of infection. The hormone is common in combined birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or during pregnancy.

What can cause candidiasis?

According to the doctor, “small traumas such as sexual intercourse, the habit of wearing very tight or synthetic fiber clothing, or staying in wet or damp swimsuits for a long time can create an environment favorable to the proliferation of the fungus”.

Brianna Nicoletti adds: “We also know that they can be linked to a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates and also to the experience of stressful situations, which increase serum cortisol levels.”

Although the disease is common, it is concerning. But there is no reason to be afraid, after all the presence of the fungus does not entail any risk, nor does it require treatment when there are no symptoms. However, it’s worth keeping an eye out if you notice signs like:

  • Irritation
  • Itching
  • Yellowish-white discharge

Treatment:

As gynecologist and obstetrician Igor Padovesi points out, “candidiasis occurs when the fungal population increases excessively and becomes unbalanced with the rest of the vaginal flora”. Therefore, it is important to understand what may have led to a decrease in your immunity. And despite the scary and uncomfortable symptoms, they are there today various treatment options for candidiasis, from tablets to topical creams.

However, you need to keep an eye out for cases of recurrent candidiasis. These are cases that require specialist medical monitoring and are classified as such when the problem recurs in four or more episodes every 12 months.

In situations like this, the conduct can be combined. In other words, with the use of medications and lifestyle adjustments, to control the condition and improve symptoms. Therefore, be sure to always consult a gynecologist!

Source: Dr. Brianna Nicoletti, allergist and immunologist at USP; Dr. Igor Padovesi, gynecologist and obstetrician of the USP and doctor of the Albert Einstein hospital.

Source: Terra

You may also like