Diabetes and yeast infections: 5 things every diabetic should know
As a result of high blood sugar levels and immune system dysfunction, diabetics are prone to more frequent and more severe infections than non-diabetics. Among these infections, yeast is among the most common and, in fact, sometimes leads to the diagnosis of diabetes.
Is this dangerous? Is there anything a person can do about it?
Here are 5 things every diabetic should know about yeast infections:
1. Vaginal yeast infections – don’t skip this, men – here are some things you should know too. Yeast thrives in a warm and humid environment, especially when there is a lot of food, that is, excess sugar. There are always some yeasts in the neighborhood, but other “good” germs usually displace them. In diabetes, yeast can grow in abundance and turn into crab grass – once it takes hold, it is difficult to remove. If you have never been diagnosed with diabetes but have had more yeast infections than you should have, or have had trouble healing from a yeast infection, see your doctor; you may be diabetic.
Yeast is not generally a sexually transmitted disease, but in a diabetic it can be, especially if both partners are diabetic. Other STDs can also be spread more easily if fragile tissues are already irritated by a yeast infection. Women who suffer from vaginal itching and burning are also less likely to be interested in intercourse. Because the symptoms of yeast infections, urine infections, and STDs overlap, women sometimes mistake one for the other.
If you are diabetic and have long-term or recurring yeast infections, you should speak to your doctor. You may need to control your blood sugar levels more effectively. You may need a long course of anti-yeast medications. You may need a combination of oral and topical medications. You may need to be tested for another type of infection that resembles yeast.
two. Canker sores (oral candidiasis). Thrush is common in diabetics who have poor blood sugar control, especially in patients with dentures. Candidiasis has a variety of presentations. It often appears as white spots that line the inside of the cheeks or tongue. Sometimes the mouth looks raw or irritated. Other people complain of a change in taste or pain even though the tissues appear normal. Oral yeast infection indicates a need for better sugar control, better oral hygiene, or both. It may require oral medication, topical medication, or both, and it can occur at the same time as a yeast infection in another part of the body.
3. Intertrigo (fungal infections in hot skin folds). Intertrigo is especially common in men and women who have overlapping skin folds that remain moist. Common areas include the armpit (armpit), groin, under the chest, and under the abdomen. Intertrigo appears as a red or pink rash, usually flat (not bumpy), which is often wet and may have an unpleasant odor or itchiness. Again, the cure is to control blood sugar levels, keep the area dry, and medication. Topical creams like Lotrimin or Lamisil are effective. If the itching is prominent, over-the-counter hydrocortisone can be added. Wearing a cotton t-shirt or underwear helps keep the area dry.
Four. Antibiotic-related yeast infections. Diabetics who take antibiotics for respiratory or other infections are at high risk of developing any of the above conditions. Antibiotics kill many normal germs (normal flora) and allow yeast to take root. A yeast infection can appear while a patient is taking the antibiotic or for up to a few weeks afterward. Those who take daily antibiotics for conditions like acne or rosacea are at special risk. The key to prevention is minimizing exposure to antibiotics. Don’t ask for an antibiotic for a cold you’ve only had a few days. If you must continue on an antibiotic for any reason, you may also need to take a long course of anti-yeast medications. One approach for diabetics who tend to get yeast infections is to start an antifungal medication prophylactically as soon as an antibiotic is started. Ask your doctor about the best plan for you.
5. Steroid-related yeast infections. It is not uncommon for a diabetic patient to suffer from a separate condition (such as arthritis or asthma) for which steroid medications are prescribed. Steroids alone predispose to yeast infections, but doubly in a diabetic, as they can raise blood sugar levels. Steroid pills, IVs, injections, and inhalers predispose to yeast infections. If you use a steroid inhaler, be sure to follow the instructions on rinsing your mouth afterward. If you receive an injection in the knee for arthritis, be aware that elevated blood sugar readings and thrush may occur. For people taking steroids for a long time, daily yeast medication may be required.
It is rare for a yeast infection to be more serious than the situations described above. If you are diabetic and have problems with recurring or long-term infections, ask your doctor if there are any special measures you need to take. If your blood sugar level is not under control, develop a plan with your doctor to manage the situation.
Copyright 2010 Cynthia J. Koelker, MD