Yeast Infection--Growing Out Of Control

 

Generally, yeast thrives inside the vaginal canal in small amounts. But often times, the vaginal bacteria get out of control, resulting in a yeast infection. The infection irritates the vagina and the vulva (area surrounding the vagina). The yeast infection is called Candida. Women blush at the thought of yeast infection—it seems terribly embarrassing. But know that 75 out of 100 women do experience this condition at some time or another—half of them, more than one yeast infection.

Now, yeast infection can occur elsewhere on the body (other than the vaginal area) and unfortunately it can manifest in infants and adults. There is a form of oral Candida known as thrush. This is usually seen in the form of white patches over a red underlying skin. It appears partially on the tongue or palate. In some instances, the tongue is just red. Thrush makes it difficult to eat as it is painful sometimes.

In any area of the skin where there is moisture and warmth (as in overlapping skin)—the overgrowth of yeast is probable. Babies contract these yeast infections usually form wet diapers—a rash appears, called satellite lesions (small red rash). The rash is normally painful and itchy.

Candida can actually affect your brain if it spreads through your blood stream and can cause behavior changes. Different organs inside the body can be affected by yeast infection, causing dysfunctions. If you are afflicted with AIDS you will most likely encounter a yeast infection called esophagitis in the upper GI (gastrointestinal) system. The infection goes all the way from the mouth area down to the stomach. Ulcers can form inside the stomach and cause difficulty in swallowing. The intestinal area may become infected and a person can dehydrate. Be careful! Bear in mind that thrush can also be a symptom of HIV infection.

Normally, areas of the body that hold moisture like the genital area (most common), the mouth, hands, feet, and underarms.

Yeast infections can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. The infections can also be caused by certain medicines that have an effect on your hormones. When hormones are affected more moisture is naturally produced by the body.

The prevention of yeast infection primarily rests on your body being clean and staying dry. Remember that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.

You really must see your doctor to determine whether or not you have a yeast infection. Repeated yeast infections are typically treated with antifungal medications.

In avoiding vaginal yeast infection, you can do several things to cut down on the spread of the Candida fungus. Make certain that your clothing stays dry. When you bathe, dry completely—especially in the crotch area and rectal area. Wear loose fitting airy clothing. Your chances of contracting the infection are raised by poor diet (high sugar intake), sleeplessness, steroids or antibiotics, your monthly period, illness, and weakened immune system.

There are various over the counter medications for yeast infection treatment, but don’t take it upon yourself to diagnose and medicate yourself—let your doctor tell you what to do.