A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, occurs when Candida yeast, a fungus naturally present on the skin and in various body parts like the mouth, throat, and vagina, overgrows. While small amounts of Candida typically coexist harmlessly with other microorganisms, an imbalance can lead to infection. This condition is a common concern for individuals undergoing chemotherapy, as their bodies are more susceptible to such imbalances.
Why Chemotherapy Increases Risk
Chemotherapy treatments increase susceptibility to yeast infections due to several systemic effects. A primary reason is immunosuppression, where chemotherapy drugs reduce white blood cells, especially neutrophils, which are crucial for fighting infections. This weakened immune response makes it difficult to control Candida yeast.
Chemotherapy also disrupts the body’s natural microbial balance, particularly in the gut and on mucous membranes. Beneficial bacteria that keep Candida in check can be diminished, allowing yeast overgrowth. Chemotherapy can also damage mucous membranes throughout the body, including the mouth, esophagus, and vaginal tissues, creating entry points for Candida and leading to conditions like mucositis.
Recognizing a Yeast Infection
Yeast infection symptoms vary depending on the affected body area. Oral candidiasis, commonly known as thrush, presents as creamy white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and sometimes the throat. Individuals may also experience a cotton-like sensation in the mouth, loss of taste, soreness, or pain when eating or swallowing.
Vaginal yeast infections can cause itching, burning, and soreness in or around the vagina. A common sign is a thick, white, odorless discharge that resembles cottage cheese, along with redness and swelling of the vulva. Pain during urination or sexual intercourse can also occur.
Yeast infections on the skin or nails, known as cutaneous candidiasis or onychomycosis, appear as a red, itchy rash, often in skin folds like the armpits, groin, or under the breasts. The skin in affected areas may become cracked and sore, while nail infections can lead to discoloration (yellow or white), thickening, or brittleness of the nails.
Safe Treatment Approaches During Chemotherapy
Always consult the oncology team or doctor before starting any yeast infection treatment during chemotherapy. This is crucial because certain medications can interact with chemotherapy drugs, affect their efficacy, or pose risks to an already weakened immune system. The medical team can recommend the most appropriate and safest course of action.
Prescription antifungal medications are the primary treatment. Topical antifungals like nystatin are often prescribed as an oral suspension or lozenges for thrush, or as creams for skin and vaginal infections. For more widespread or persistent infections, oral systemic antifungals such as fluconazole may be necessary. These medications are prescription-only, and the dosage is carefully determined based on the infection’s severity and the patient’s overall health status. In severe cases, particularly if the infection has spread internally or is unresponsive to other treatments, intravenous antifungals might be administered in a hospital setting.
Supportive care measures can complement medical treatment but are not a substitute for prescribed medications. Maintaining good hygiene is important; for oral thrush, using a soft toothbrush and gentle, non-alcoholic mouth rinses can help. For skin infections, keeping affected areas dry and wearing loose, breathable clothing can reduce irritation. Vaginal infections may benefit from avoiding irritating soaps or douches and wearing cotton underwear. These practices help manage symptoms and create an environment less favorable for yeast growth, but they do not eliminate the infection, which requires medical intervention.
Preventing Future Infections
Preventing recurrent yeast infections during chemotherapy involves specific practices to minimize risk. Maintaining thorough oral hygiene is important, including gentle brushing of teeth and gums and using non-alcoholic mouth rinses as advised by the healthcare team. Regular oral care helps reduce Candida in the mouth, a common infection site.
Skin care is also important, especially in areas prone to moisture. Keeping skin folds dry and clean, and wearing loose, breathable fabrics like cotton, can deter yeast growth. For vaginal health, avoiding irritating products like scented soaps or douches, and opting for cotton underwear, helps maintain a healthy environment less conducive to yeast overgrowth.
General health practices also contribute to infection prevention. While specific diets are typically not recommended during chemotherapy due to potential interactions or nutritional deficiencies, maintaining a balanced diet and adequate hydration can support overall well-being. Resting and managing stress also support the body’s resilience during treatment.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Prompt medical consultation is important if symptoms worsen or do not show improvement after starting treatment. Any new or severe symptoms should also prompt immediate contact with the oncology team. These symptoms might include a fever of 100.5 °F (38 °C) or higher, chills, or a widespread rash.
Signs of a systemic infection, such as feeling unwell, fatigue beyond typical chemotherapy side effects, or severe pain, require urgent medical attention. Also seek advice for symptoms like persistent soreness, difficulty swallowing, or unusual vaginal discharge or irritation. Any concerns or questions about symptoms or treatment should be directed to a healthcare professional without delay.