A yeast infection pops up if fungus becomes overgrown on or inside the body.
The most common fungus to cause a yeast infection is theCandidaspecies.
The appearance of a yeast infection will vary significantly depending on where its located and how severe it is.
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For example, when it occurs within the vagina, it typically presents with thick whitedischarge.
Skin yeast infections will cause patches of scaly skin on the body.
This article discusses the various types of yeast infections and what they look like.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet and Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023.
Avaginal yeast infectionis the most commonly known bang out.
The most significant visual sign of a vaginal yeast infection is the thick,white dischargethat develops.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
It is similar to cottage cheese in appearance.
Other visual signs of a vaginal yeast infection include:
How Common are Vaginal Yeast Infections?
Vaginal yeast infections are highly common.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZwww.dermnetnz.org2022.
Roughly 75% of females will have a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime.
Penile Yeast Infection
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The visual signs of a yeast infection in males include:
How Common Are Penile Yeast Infections?
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Mouth
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If a fungus grows uncontrollably in the mouth, it can lead to anoral yeast infection or thrush.
Physical symptoms of oral thrush include:
How Common Is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush isnt common in healthy adults and is more likely to develop in infants.
Roughly 5% to 7% of infants will develop oral thrush.
Other Body Folds
In rarer cases, a yeast infection can occur in the skin folds.
In people with darker skin tones, the patches tend to be lighter than the skin.
A pH imbalance and UTI are unlikely to cause cottage cheese-like discharge.
Those that are mild may only present with altered discharge.
Summary
An overgrowth of fungus causes yeast infections.
Typically, you will notice some redness, swelling, and, if in the genital area, discharge.
If you suspect you may have a yeast infection, contacting your healthcare provider is essential.
They will help diagnose and provide treatment for clearing up the infection.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health.Vaginal yeast infections.
InformedHealth.org.Overview: vaginal yeast infection (thrush).
Healthdirect Australia.Genital thrush in males.
InformedHealth.org.Overview: oral thrush.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing candidiasis.
