Opportunistic Infections - Fungal Infections

People living with HIV get sick for one reason; opportunistic infections. There are several types of opportunistic infections that we have to be concerned with. One such type is fungal opportunistic infections. These infections can range from a mild nuisance to life threatening. Here is a guide to the most common fungal opportunistic infections.

Candidiasis
This is a form of yeast fungal infection and are of three types.

• oral (thrush)
• esophageal
• vaginal

Thrush - A Guide to Treatment

Here's What a Fungal Infection Looks Like

• Symptoms
  
  • Fungal infections such as thrush exhibit white patches inside the mouth, the upper throat or tongue.
  • Sore throat, and changes in taste are common.
  • Chest pain and difficulty swallowing accompany esophageal candidiasis (fungal infection of the esophagus).
  • Vaginal itching, burning, and a thick white discharge characterize vaginal fungal infections.

Cryptococcal Meningitis
This fungal infection causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord covering. It is acquired by inhaling dust where the fungus is present, usually from bird droppings.

• Symptoms
  
  • fever
  • blurred vision with photophobia (light hurts the eyes)
  • mental confusion
  • headache
  • a stiff, painful neck.

Histoplasmosis
Most often found in the Midwest, especially Indiana and the Ohio River Valley. There are no drugs available to prevent this infection.

• Symptoms
  
  • fever
  • swollen glands
  • cough
  • shortness of breath
  • weight loss.

A Collection of Opportunistic Fact Sheets