Can I get a Throat Yeast Infection?

Although it is not very common for healthy individuals to develop a yeast infection of the throat, it can occur for various reasons. Most people who develop a throat yeast infection have an underlying cause such as a compromised immune system. It's also common to see patients who are suffering from Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) develop some type of throat infection typically caused by yeast. Patients who have undergone extensive chemotherapy are also prone to weakened immune systems, making them more vulnerable to a throat yeast infection.

A throat yeast infection is also known as candidiasis or oral thrush. It is actually a type of fungus that infects the lining of the throat and is generally caused by an overpopulation of yeast in the mouth. Some symptoms of a throat yeast infection or candidiasis are white patches or spots on the inside of the mouth or back of the throat; fever can be present as well. A general feeling of illness or malaise is also common with a yeast infection. Sore throat is common when yeast multiplies and causes an infection, and sometimes the individual may notice what appears to be a pasty substance that lines the throat and makes it difficult to swallow.

If you believe your sexual partner may have some type of yeast infection, the best course of action is to refrain from sexual contact. A throat yeast infection can be contracted through sexual intimacy with an infected individual. Yeast infections are more common and present in women, but they can pass it on to their partner.

One known way to prevent the fungus which causes yeast infections of the throat from occurring is to ensure your body has the proper balance of healthy bacteria. This beneficial bacteria that is present in healthy individuals normally keep a throat yeast infection from developing. If that balance is compromised, however, it can promote a prime breeding ground for fungal or yeast infections. Taking a daily probiotic supplement such as Lactobacillus acidophilus can be one way of helping to protect your immunity.

When a physician prescribes a course of antibiotic treatment to a patient, he will often recommend using probiotics or consuming yogurt that is supplemented with live and active cultures. This helps to prevent the beneficial bacteria from being destroyed along with the bad bacteria. Over-usage of antibiotics can promote unwanted side effects and typically causes more harm than good.