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Yeast Infection Tips

Candidacies, commonly called yeast infection or thrush, is a fungal infection of any of the Candida species, of which Candida albicans is probably the most common. Yeast organisms are always present in all people, but are usually prevented from "overgrowth" (uncontrolled multiplication resulting in symptoms) by naturally occurring microorganisms.

In immuno competent people, candidiasis can usually only be found in exposed and moist parts of the body, such as the oral cavity (oral thrush), the vagina (vaginal candidiasis or thrush), or folds of skin in the diaper area (diaper rash). Candidiasis is the most common cause of vaginal irritation or vanities.

Last Updated - 24th November 2005

At least three quarters of all women will experience candidiasis at some point in their lives. The Candida albicans organism is found in the vaginas of almost all women and normally causes no problems. However, when it gets out of balance with the other "normal flora", such as lactobacilli (which can also be harmed by using douches), an overgrowth and symptoms can result. Pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives and some antibiotics, and diabetes mellitus increase the risk of infection.

The most common symptoms are itching and irritation of the vagina and/or vulva. A whitish or whitish-gray discharge may be present, sometimes resembling cottage cheese, and may have a "yeasty" smell like beer or baking bread. The normal smell is a lactic acid smell, like cheese or yogurt, due to lactobacilli, "good" bacteria that are also used to turn milk into cheese and yogurt.

In immunocompromised patients, the candida infection can become systemic, causing much more serious disease.

Treatment

Candidiasis is alleged to be successfully treated either with home remedies or, in the case of a more severe infection, with either over the counter or prescription antifungal medications. Home remedies for candidiasis include the consumption or direct application of yogurt, which contains lactobacillus (a bacteria that kills yeast), acidophilus tablets or salves, and even lightly crushed cloves of garlic which yields allicin, an antifungal. Boric acid has also been used to treat yeast infections by filling gelcaps with boric acid powder and inserting two at bedtime for three to four nights.

Whilst home remedies only offer relief in minor cases of infection, seeking medical attention is a necessity as the extent of the infection often cannot be judged well by the sufferer. Prescription medication is often the only solution to an infection, the drugs commonly used to treat candidiasis are clotrimazole, nystatin, ketoconazole or amphotericin B in varying concentrations and applications.

If indicated, an underlying reason should be looked for. As an example, oral candidiasis is often linked to the use of inhaled steroids in asthma medication. Patients on long term inhaled steroids should rinse their mouth after each dose of steroids. Babies with diaper rash should have their diaper areas kept clean, dry, and exposed to air as much as possible. Sugar assists the overgrowth of yeast. In the case of frequent yeast infections, sugar can be looked to as a culprit and should be avoided.

A vaginal yeast infection is caused by an excess growth of yeast organisms in the vagina. Yeast infections are not spread by sexual contact; however, treating your partner with antifungal medications may help prevent recurrent yeast infections.

COMMON CAUSES

Antibiotic use

Steroid use

Pregnancy

Diabetes

Illnesses that weaken the immune system

Frequent douching

Tight clothing

Strong soaps

Perfumed feminine hygiene products

COMMON SYMPTOMS

Vaginal itching

White, curdy, usually odorless vaginal discharge

Pain when urinating

Pain during intercourse

PREVENTION

Wear cotton-lined underwear

Avoid tight-fitting slacks and undergarments as they increase the heat and moisture to the vaginal area which allows yeast to grow

Eat yogurt that contains live Lactobacillus organisms

Avoid feminine sprays, talcs or perfumes in your vaginal area as they affect the balance among the microorganisms in your vagina

Do not douche unless instructed by your physician

Wipe your vaginal area from front to back after using the toilet

Limit your sugar intake if you have diabetes

HOME TREATMENT

Use a nonprescription antifungal medication for yeast infections as directed

Eat yogurt

Avoid excessive cleaning of your vaginal area. Wash once a day with plain water or a mild soap

Do not use tampons while using a topical treatment for a yeast infection

WHEN TO CALL A PHYSICIAN

If you develop lower abdominal pain

If you develop a fever greater than 101 degrees along with symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection

If you are not sure you have a yeast infection

If home treatment fails within 3 or 4 days

If you are using antifungal creams repeatedly

If you are pregnant

If symptoms return within 2 months and you have not been taking antibiotics If you plan to see a doctor, do not douche, use vaginal creams or have sexual intercourse for 48 hours before your appointment as your problem will be more difficult to diagnose.

Disclaimer: The Yeast Infection Tips / Information presented and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Tips And Treats.

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