2. White Patches in the Throat: Not Just a Strep Throat Hangover
White patches in the throat usually send people straight into panic mode. But when these patches are stubborn and accompanied by pain, it could signal esophageal candidiasis. Unlike a common sore throat, these white patches are often creamy, and they cling to the surfaces inside your throat stubbornly.
First, let’s dispel a myth: this isn’t merely a cosmetic issue. These patches indicate that a fungal invasion has settled in. Candida, the organism responsible for esophageal candidiasis, loves these cozy, moist environments. It takes root and proliferates, creating an unsightly and painful patchwork in your throat.
What’s more, these patches aren’t lone wolves; they tend to bring friends along for the ride. Often, you’ll also notice symptoms like bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth. This is because Candida produces waste products that are just as unpleasant as the fungal overgrowth itself. (2)
