Thrush

Thrush is a fungal (yeast) infection also known as candida, vaginal yeast infection, vulvovaginal candidiasis or vulvovaginal candidosis. It can affect the penis in males causing redness and irritation. It is more common in uncircumcised males.

Thrush in women

Vaginal thrush is most commonly caused by candida albicans, symptoms of which include itching and irritation of the vagina. This can cause a burning sensation when passing urine. Other visible symptoms can include thick, creamy, mucous-like vaginal discharges.
Candida albicans is a naturally occurring fungus which thrives in moist, warm areas of the body such as the mouth and genital areas. Candida albicans usually doesn’t cause any problems as it is kept under control by other bacteria and the body’s immune system. Problems arise however when changes in the vagina cause the fungus to grow.

Thrush in men

Commonly thrush in men will include:

• Candida balanitis: An infection of the penis head (glans)
• Candidal skin infection: A general skin infection

Treatment

There are various treatments for thrush, including intravaginal pessaries (a tablet that is inserted into the vagina) and anti-fungal creams.
Thrush can also be treated with a single dose anti-fungal tablet such as fluconazole 150mg single-dose.
Fluconazole tablets eliminates thrush from the body and is generally easier to use and less messy than creams or pessaries.
In males, treatment is best by regular treatment with thrush cream. This is best applied onto a clean penis which has been washed and dried. Cream is best applied for 2 weeks twice daily.
If symptoms persist beyond 10 days of starting treatment, then further medical help should be sought by your own doctor.
The side effects of Fluconazole can be as follows:

• nausea
• abdominal pain
• diarrhoea
• flatulence (excessive wind)