A Candid Look into Yeast Infections

What may arguably be the most commonly known yeast infection or form of
candidiasis in the world today is thrush, which affects mostly female
genitalia. (It is rare, though not impossible, for men to contract the
disease.) But yeast infections actually do not limit themselves to either
gender, and simply affect certain areas of the human body.

Yeast infections are infections confined specifically to the skin or
mucous-like membrane, caused in human beings by a genus of fungi called
Candida. It appears in laboratory-cultured agar plates as large, round colonies
colored white, cream or whitish-gray. One of its most famous (or rather
infamous) species is Candida albicans, though it must be noted that Candida
albicans is not the only species that causes yeast infections in human beings.

Candida albicans lives peacefully with other flora in the human body, its
growth kept in check by a certain bacteria. It makes its home inside the dark,
warm, wet areas of the body. This is why yeast infections are found in areas
such as the ears, the mouth, the blood, the gastrointestinal or "gut" area --
and yes, the area "down there." However, it also likes human skin, particularly
warm, wet sections which like skin folds and armpits.

Candidiasis is also called "yeast infection" is because Candida albicans'
normal form is that of single oval yeast cells. When in yeast form, it
duplicates itself through budding. This means the cells create genetic clones
of themselves through bulbs that "grow" out of them. These bulbs stay attached
to the parent cells for a while before letting go.

So what actually causes yeast infection? First, the human body's temperature
must be at a specific level and the pH levels must be balanced, two of the
conditions necessary for Candida albicans and its partner bacteria to grow
without disturbing other flora. But when the temperature and pH levels change,
these bacteria die. This leaves the Candida albicans cells free to change into
fungi and to replicate with no control over themselves.

Candida albicans fungi mark their territories during this population boom by
causing any of these sensations: burning, itching, soreness, or tingling.
Sometimes, two of these sensations can be felt at once. It's a bad idea to
scratch the irritated areas, since this act would only compound the overgrowth
of the fungi.

Other signs include fatigue, drowsiness, muscle aches, pain or swelling in the
joints, dizziness, fluid retention, tissue swelling, loss of balance, lack of
coordination, lack of concentration, poor memory, mood swings, depression,
anxiety, irritability, and cravings for sugars, carbohydrates and alcohol. But
these are also common symptoms for other sicknesses, so they must be taken into
consideration along with more reliable indicators.

The overgrowth also causes specific side-effects in afflicted areas. To name a
few, yeast infections create white-or cream-colored patches inside the mouth,
reaching as far as the soft palate. They cause digestion problems and make even
bowel movement difficult. Afflicted penises have patchy sores near the head or
on the foreskin. Candidiasis is also responsible for discharges from the ear,
the bowels (in the stool) and the genitalia.

Yeast infections can cause serious, sometimes even fatal, diseases. This is
particularly true for sufferers with weakened or underdeveloped immune systems,
diabetes, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, sufferers can be permanently cured
through immediate and proper diagnosis and medication.

Look Out! Ten Signs You Might Have Yeast Infection

A yeast infection, also called candidiasis in scientific circles, is best known
for causing a white or whitish discharge as well as putting great discomfort on
sufferers. If left undiagnosed, this may bring in serious diseases which not
only heighten the weakness of a person's immune system, but may even be
life-threatening in the long run. Keep on the lookout for these ten signs you
might have yeast infection.

First, there are five general symptoms which will almost always come together
no matter which kind of candidiasis a person may be afflicted with.

1. The affected body part itches severely. Yeast infections will actually
prefer to grown in locations where scratching would be next to impossible, such
as the mouth or the vagina. Human skin affected by yeast infection will have red
rashes, which may be more pronounced in skin patches with hair growing on them.

2. On one hand, the body part feels like it burns, or is sore to the touch.
This may not necessarily cause blisters or include itchiness. On the other
hand, the body part can feel tingly or numb. This lack of sensation does not
mean that the part is safe from yeast infection.

3. Sensitivity to certain chemicals is heightened. Triggers include antibiotic
formulas, sugar, refined carbohydrates (also known as most processed food), and
of course, yeast.

4. Mental and physical coordination are also affected. Sufferers cannot balance
themselves or move the way they want. They cannot focus on tasks, and become
lazy through no fault of their own. Mood swings and heightened negative
emotions are other indicators.

5. For genitalia and the digestive system, there is a white or whitish mucous
discharge. In the mouth, there are white or whitish patches. Both the discharge
and the patches have the consistency and smell of bread or a light cheese,
though the smell can also be associated with beer.

There are also symptoms specific to the body parts affected by candidiasis,
five of which are discussed below:

1. In gastrointestinal candidiasis, the digestive system is upset. The stomach
in particular either bloats with constipation, or it acts up due to diarrhea or
abdominal cramps (or, at times, both). Bowel movement is not spared either,
because yeast infection causes the irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Women are the primary victims of genitourinary candidiasis. But men are also
susceptible, and not just through sexual intercourse. Speaking of which,
intercourse is painful and urination becomes more urgent for sufferers of yeast
infection. Ladies may have unusual menstrual cramps while gentlemen may have
prostatitis.

3. Oral candidiasis causes dryness inside the mouth. The tongue cracks while
the gums bleed. Fissures appear at the corners of the mouth. Swallowing becomes
difficult.

4. In respiratory candidiasis, persistent coughing, wheezing, or shortness of
breath can manifest. Another indicator is when the chest constantly tightens or
is in pain.

5. Candidiasis causes chronic inflammation and irritation of the eye and the
conjunctivae (the mucous that covers the white area of the eye). The retina
(the nerve-ended part which captures images for the brain) may defend itself
against yeast infection by collecting pus inside an inflamed tissue pocket.
This may permanently damage the sufferer's eyesight.

One last note of caution: despite the fact that you can name ten signs you
might have yeast infection, you may actually suffer no symptoms at all. Or you
may bear symptoms similar to those of other sicknesses. If you feel like
something is wrong but cannot put a finger on it, be sure to consult a doctor.

Got Yeast? A Guide to Diagnosing Yeast Infection in Women

The female human body is an organic machine made of nerve, muscle and bone. It
can nurture babies for up to nine months. But, like all machines, it is prone
to the occasional malfunction, such as, well, getting candidiasis -- better
known as a yeast infection, or in this case vaginal thrush. So how do you go
about diagnosing yeast infection?

Not Quite Yeast, Actually...

To begin, vaginal thrush is not brought about by yeast. The infection is
actually caused by a fungus called Candida albicans which has yeast-like
properties. It grows naturally in warm, moist, dark regions of the body, like
the mouth and the vagina. Its growth is kept checked by a kind of beneficial
bacteria which also grows in the human body. The job of Candida albicans is to
search for harmful bacteria and destroy them.

The problem starts when the good bacteria that monitor the growth of Candida
albicans die, either because of antibiotics or a weak immune system. Once these
bacteria die, Candida albicans grow rapidly and spread aggressively. Add to this
the fact that all candida fungi can pass through muscle or organ walls in the
body (it has been known to penetrate intestinal walls), and there you have it
-- an infection that irritates the vagina as well as the vulva.

So How Do You Diagnose It, Really?

The first step to determine the symptoms. The most telling symptom is if your
body releases a white or whitish-gray discharge which comes out clumpy and has
a smell that reminds you of bread or beer. Other common warning signs include
severe itching, a burning and tingling sensation, and even soreness, all of
which make walking, switching positions, urinating and sexual intercourse
difficult. Some of these symptoms may be heightened through exposure to
chemicals, such as perfumes and household cleaning materials.

Sufferers are also more prone to develop allergies through inhaling airborne
mold. Damp, dark locations can make them feel worse. They may also display a
craving for sugar, breads, carbohydrates and alcohol, though sufferers may not
necessarily be tolerant to alcohol. But even then these symptoms altogether may
make you a candidate for another infection called bacterial vaginosis, which
merits its own article.

With these symptoms in mind, the next step is to visit your obstetrician-
gynecologist or ob-gyne. The ob-gyne will begin questioning you about your 
symptoms, your medical history and your exposure to certain chemicals. He or 
she will take a swab of your vaginal discharge, and inspect the presence of 
candida from this sample under a microscope. The ob-gyne may also ask you to 
assist him or her in identifying the exact location of the itching or pain 
using a magnifying lens.

Keep in mind that not all doctors are able to diagnose thrush or yeast
infections properly. There are times that the indicators could be signs of
thrush as described here, and there are times that they may actually be
symptoms of a kind of vaginitis, most likely bacterial in nature. Also, when
left unchecked, thrush may cause dangerous side-effects, such as endometriosis,
ovarian dysfunction and the release of toxins which may further jeopardize your
immune system.

Diagnosing yeast infection can be difficult, mostly because its symptoms are no
different with those of other illnesses affecting the genital region. Therefore,
it is extremely important to be pro-active in getting an accurate diagnosis as
soon as you experience the warning signs.

You must able to recognize and keep track of what is going on with you in your
genital region. And you must be very forthcoming when asked about the
medication you are taking and the products you are using.

What to do with a yeast infection

First things first, don't panic. After you discover that you have a yeast
infection, the first thing that should come to your mind is what to do with a
yeast infection and not go all out hysterical and begin pointing fingers or
blaming yourself about it. There will be no benefit from being out of your
mind. All you need is to proceed calmly, assess your situation, consult your
doctor, and administer the recommended treatment. Yeast infection is treatable
so relax.

Okay, that being out of the way, we now proceed to what other things you need
to do after confirming that you have yeast infection. The infection occurs when
there is an abnormal growth of fungi and yeast in your vaginal area. You need to
understand that yeast prefer the surfaces of bodies since it is warm and moist
especially in areas like down there. Now, yeast has been found to be present in
at least 20% to 50% of women. However, their presence does not mean they will
result to immediate infections. It is the overgrowth of the yeast that would
possible cause an infection and for it to spread in the vaginal area.

Making certain that one has a yeast infection is a great thing to do. Your
doctor will confirm this with you. Once confirmed, he will be able to advise
you on the most efficient treatment available. Why do we have to consult a
doctor? One of the main concerns is the fact that allied yeast infection shows
some similarities with sexually transmitted diseases. Applying some medications
after performing do-it-yourself diagnosis is not always recommended. You might
end up worsening your current situation.

Aside from the vaginal area, yeast infections also occur in the underarms, in
babies' mouth, in babies' diaper areas, and for adults even in the areas under
the breast or underneath the folds of skin. You should know that yeast
infection could spread throughout the body. Fortunately, these cases are very
rare. Nevertheless, take note that yeast infection when left untreated could
result to a more complex condition, one which would no longer respond to normal
treatments. This is of course a big bother.

Asking your doctor for the right medication would greatly help you get rid of
the infection. However, sometimes home remedies and proper health care would be
sufficient. Some basic health care that you should adopt include not wearing wet
underwear for long periods of time, avoidance of tight jeans and pants, and not
using those hygiene products like feminine sprays and deodorant pads.

A number of over the counter medicines are now available which claims to
eliminate yeast infections. There are medicines that can be taken orally or
creams that are to be applied on the affected area. These commercially
available products offer schemes like a seven-day infection free treatment.
Some offers relief in just three days.

However, be aware that abuse of these antifungal medications can lead to the
fungi becoming resistant to the medicine. This is the reason why it is better
to have the infection studied closely in medical laboratories to get a more
accurate diagnosis. It is not worth buying all those medicines and then finding
out later that you spent all your time and money on an infection that you did
not have in the first place.

The question what to do with a yeast infection should have been answered by
now. There are a lot of materials which you can read to get a more detailed
discussion on the infection. Plus, y our doctor can fill in.

Quick relief solutions for yeast infection

The causes cannot be pinpointed to one, but rather to different factors which
can be triggered by various elements and stimuli. That would be a good
definition of how one gets yeast infections. To some, however, the origins of
the condition do not matter or concerns them very little for they are more
focused in finding ways to treat their condition. They want quick relief
solutions for their yeast infection which is quite understandable since the
infection can bring some very uncomfortable conditions.

Those who have the infection usually suffer a great deal of itching, redness,
and irritation. The use of medicines, either commercially available or the use
that are home made or alternative medications are pretty much sought after by
women who suffer with the infection. There are still a number of techniques
where people can use to have an immediate relief from the accompanying
conditions of the infection.

One of the more simple and easy technique that can be used is the application
of yogurt. Yes yogurt. Yogurt can be applied on the affected areas to achieve a
soothing and cooling effect. Why yogurt? Yogurt contains friendly bacteria which
helps control the population of the yeast microorganism in the affected areas.
However, please note that the yogurt to be used should not be sweetened nor
should it be heated. Yogurt is more effective if it is left on the affected
area for at least 60 minutes after application. Just let the microorganism work
and balance out each other before rinsing the yogurt.

This may not be an immediate solution, but maintaining a good diet would be a
good way to treat a yeast infection. Poor diet can easily aggravate a situation
like the overgrowth of yeast. The increase acidity in the digestive track as
well as high acidity levels in the blood can create an environment favorable to
the overgrowth of yeast in the body. You should understand that yeast is
normally present in our body. It is their overgrowth which creates the
infection.

Another quick relief solution would be that use of vinegar on the affected
area. One of the most effective would be apple cider vinegar solution which is
applied on the yeast infected areas. Others mix the vinegar in a warm water
bath and spend a couple of minutes bathing in the solution. Apply cider vinegar
is great to balance out the levels of acid and alkaline in the body. It flushes
out the excess acid.

Another organic material that could offer some immediate relief is garlic. The
antiseptic properties inherent in garlic help eliminate bacteria and fungi so
it's perfect for yeast. Also be aware the yeast infection is not limited in the
private areas. The mouth is also a prime place where an overgrowth of yeast can
occur.

Now, do understand that the various techniques mentioned are ideal for
infections that can be considered less serious and mild. For conditions that
are more severe, a combination of various treatment techniques would be a more
effective method of curing the disease. Your doctor will most like prescribe a
combination of treatments to effectively curb the grown of yeast in our body.

The best option would be to undergo a full treatment procedure. But at the same
time, applying some quick relief solutions for yeast infection to, at least, get
immediate reprieve from the itchiness and irritation.

Yeast Infection Test

A yeast infection test is the best way to confirm whether or not you have this
disease. In fact, there are many types of these you can take but the first step
is to first see a doctor.

Once you are in the clinic, the doctor will ask you some questions. These
include what symptoms are you feeling, for how long have you experienced it and
what medications are you currently taking. You have to be honest about
everything especially if this has happened before. If this is the first time,
then that is good if you have had previous history, then there is a good chance
it will happen again.

But perhaps the most basic test will be for the doctor to take a sample and
then wait for the results to come out. There are two kinds. The first is called
the vaginal culture which is usually taken during a wet mount test. If you
happen to have more than the usual amount of yeast down there then you have
yeast infection. The doctor may also do a blood test because yeast infections
are sometimes caused by diabetes or another health related problem.

Some doctors also conduct a pelvic examination because an inflammation of the
skin of the vulva which is within the vagina and on the cervix. What the doctor
is looking for here is if it is dry or if there are white plaques on the vaginal
wall.

If the tests have confirmed that you have yeast infection, it is time for the
doctor to figure out the type of treatment to be administered.

So what happens then? If this has happened for the first time, your doctor can
prescribe something to make it go away after 7 days. If however this has
happened again, you can try to use tablets, creams or suppositories depending
on the recommendation of your physician.

Studies show that having a yeast infection makes you more susceptible to
contracting HIV as vaginal irritation may allow the easier package of this
fatal virus into the bloodstream. Although this does not happen often, women
who experience it and are resistant to treatment should already be checked for
other causes because the doctor has already ruled out the overuse of
antibiotics which happens to be one of the causes of this disease.

Some people have used some items at home to get rid of yeast infections. Some
examples of these include cranberry juice, vinegar, yogurt, curds, olive leaf
and grape fruit extract, potassium sorbate, acidophilus as well as a water
solution.

The entire time that you are being treated for yeast infection, make sure that
you do not engage in any sexual contact because you could also infect your
sexual partner with this problem. You can still spread the disease even if your
partner is wearing a condom and you applied cream already because the oil based
creams damage it as this is only made from latex.

The yeast infection test is the best way for doctors to tell if you have this
problem or not even if you already show these symptoms. You might think that
this is unnecessary and a waste of time but your doctors has to follow certain
procedures so they will be able to recommend the right treatment for your
condition.

A Guide on How to Confirm a Yeast Infection

The best way how to confirm a yeast infection is either you make an appointment
with your doctor to perform a diagnosis or taking an over the counter test. Your
doctor will perform a physical assessment and take a sample of your vaginal
discharge. An over the counter test, on the other hand, works much like a home
pregnancy kit test where the pH balance in your system is tested to confirm the
presence of a yeast infection.

It is always a good idea to confirm that you have a yeast infection before
finally deciding to treat it with over the counter medications. You may end up
doing even more harm to your self if you treat a condition that you do not
have. A yeast infection is a bothersome condition, to say the least. However,
self medicating a suspected yeast infection may disrupt the normal pH balance
of the vaginal area, causing the proliferation of microorganisms which may lead
to actual infections.

The trouble with resorting to over the counter yeast infection medications
right away is that women are using them for the treatment of something they do
not actually have. A woman who goes through certain signs and symptoms in and
around her vaginal area may immediately think she is experiencing a yeast
infection. But the truth is there are many other infections that also
demonstrate the presenting signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. These may
include bacterial vaginosis, Chlamydia and even gonorrhea.

However, there are three specific signs and symptoms of a yeast infection:
discomfort, appearance and odor. If you are experiencing the stated signs and
symptoms, you are most likely suffering a yeast infection.

The most obvious symptom of a yeast infection is the discomfort in the affected
area. This is certainly one of the revealing and most common symptoms of a yeast
infection. The kind of discomfort is often described as an intense burning or
itching sensation. Pain in urinating is experienced because of the irritated
lining of the vaginal area. In severe cases the infected individual may
experience extreme discomfort in the area that carrying out normal daily
activities such as walking is impaired. Sexual intercourse too becomes painful
for most affected women.

Another way which will help you consider the likelihood of a yeast infect ion
is by taking note of the appearance of the affected area. Most individuals
afflicted with a yeast infection describe in their private area --
specifically, in the vaginal area -- in terms of an unsightly white clump of
material that resembles curdled milk. Redness and soreness is evident in the
affected area. A discharge may or may not be present, depending on the case.
Note that only about 20% of women afflicted the infection report the presence
of a discharge in the vaginal area. The discharge may be clear to whitish or
slightly yellowish, and may be anywhere from thin to thick consistency.

Lastly, another sign that may help how to confirm a yeast infection is the
distinct odor. The discharge may or may not be accompanied by a starchy odor,
the kind that resembles bread or beer. Notice that yeast is used in bread
making as a leavening agent, and in beer making for fermentation. That is
because the infection basically is a fungal infection -- commonly caused by
Candida albicans, a form of yeast.

Yeast infection, reasons why it attacks mostly women

A severely uncomfortable situation where it itch very bad, irritation is
apparent, and redness in the area is highly noticeable. These are just a few of
the possible symptoms associated with yeast infection. The unbearable itching
caused by yeast infections is one of the reasons why people try are all over
the place in finding a quick, inexpensive solution. From home made remedies to
commercially available medicines, people will try almost anything. But what are
the reasons why yeast infection attacks mostly women? Let's get the answer for
that question a little later. First things first.

Candida albicans, that's the culprit. This microorganism is always present in
damp areas in our body. Initially, when everything's normal, Candida does not
do anything to us. The normal balance between good and bad bacteria is usually
maintained by our body. However, triggered by outside stimulus, this balance is
destroyed leaving the organism Candida free to grow and populate. This
overgrowth of microorganisms results to irritation and redness. Itchiness will
of course be among the symptoms of the infection.

Why is it more common to women? Even though men have the potential of becoming
infected as well, there are several factors in women which increase the risks
of being infected. According to some studies, it is estimated that 25% to 50%
of women have in their bodies the microorganisms that caused the infection.
However, due to the presence of other bacteria, the amount of Candida in
specific areas remains tolerable to the body. It is when this balance of
microorganisms becomes disrupted that causes the excessive growth of the
Candida which is followed by an infection of the affected area.

As the population of Candida grows, so do the infected areas. Stopping the
various symptoms associated with yeast infection means addressing the various
symptoms, factors, and situations one by one. The cause of the excessive growth
of the yeast in that area can be associated with drinking antibiotics.
Antibiotics disrupt the presence of other microorganisms that control the
population of Candida. This is why yogurt is a recommended application for
people with yeast infections. The microorganisms present in yogurt help restore
the balance between microorganisms.

Women also have a greater risk of being diagnosed of having yeast infection is
due to the estrogen level in women. This is the reason why women who take
estrogen-containing birth control pills and those who are pregnant. Women at
this stage or those who share the same objectives have very erratic hormonal
balance which affects the population of Candida.

Other possible causes of yeast infections include detergents, fabric softeners,
feminine and hygiene sprays, and forms of contraceptives like foams or jellies.
Getting older might also trigger the growth of the bacteria especially if you
are already undergoing menopause. In menopause, the estrogen levels drop which
results to the thinning of the vaginal wall making it more susceptible to
different kinds of organisms which could lead to various infections, including
but not limited to yeast.

Stress is also considered one of the factors that can worsen the situation. An
increase in vaginal itching might result to a decrease in the membrane of the
outer wall in the vagina which will eventually increase vaginal itching.

Yeast infection attacks mostly women due to the already mentioned conditions.
Knowing these conditions and situations may be a good thing to help prevent the
infection to develop or spread.

How to Fight Yeast Infection At Home

There are many causes of yeast infection. These include wearing tight jeans or
underwear and certain antibiotics such as steroids and birth control pills. To
make matters worse, this is common among women especially during child bearing
age. This begins with a slight itch in the vagina. The only good news is that
this can be treated and there are certain things you can use to fight this at
home.

You can use Cranberry pills. This is sold over the counter in the drug store.
What makes it so effective is that the ingredients help the body's immune
system to fight back the spread of the fungus until this once again reaches
normal levels.

Another option will be to use apple cider vinegar and applying some on a cotton
ball. Those who decide to try it should expect to feel a slight sting after
applying but this can be countered by mixing it with a little garlic.
Naturally, this vital organ will also smell. You can fix this by diluting in
some water.

Yogurt is another alternative. You will only need to get a teaspoon and then
apply this directly in the affected area or on a tampon first. If you don't
have yogurt, use curds. This should be applied twice a day until the infection
is gone.

You can also mix olive leaf and grape fruit seed extract together with water
and then apply this using a cotton bud. You can also get the same result using
raw garlic juice. Just rub this over your fingers and then rub it over the
affected area.

Whichever you use, you must never have sexual intercourse because this is an
STD or sexually transmitted disease that could also cause problems for your
male partner. If treatment for yeast infection takes about a week, this could
lasts longer than you anticipated.

If treatment for yeast infection is not working, then it is time to try
something that can be given by your doctor. There are creams, tablets or
suppositories which are often recommended rather than using oral medication.

One thing women should keep in mind about yeast infection is that although this
is caused by a fungus known as Candida, this is normally present in the body. If
you are not experiencing any symptoms that are associated with it such as
itching, soreness or burning then it should not be treated because it is not a
disease.

Aside from the fact that yeast infection is treatable, there are also ways to
prevent this from ever happening. The best is to drink a glass or two of milk
daily as this ensures that there will never be an overgrowth of yeast down
there. You must also avoid wearing tight pants or underwear. If you go
swimming, get out of the wet swimsuit right away. Do not also use douches,
feminine sprays, scented toilet paper and deodorant tampons.

You can fight yeast infection at home or with the help of your doctor because
treatment is different for women who are pregnant. Sometimes you don't even
have to anything as this will clear up on its own. However, if this should
happen again, then the doctor should do a more thorough examination and use
hormone therapy to reverse or treat it.

A couple of tips to prevent yeast infection

It's not that difficult really. There are a number of simple and easy to follow
ways in preventing yeast infection. You don't have to make things as complicated
as they sound. Simple, straight to the point prevention tips as well as
solutions or cure can help make your life a lot easier and a lot comfortable
compared to having a yeast infection. A couple of tips to prevent yeast
infection are to follow so sit tight and continue reading.

Yeast infection results from the increase growth of the fungi Candida. The
fungus is present in most of us so there's no actual ways of preventing contact
with the said bacteria. However, what you can avoid is having contact with a
moist environment. Fungus grows well in a warm, most environment, and Candida
is not an exception.

Among the things that you better avoid in order to prevent the full development
of the infection includes wet clothing especially bating suits. These are quite
obvious since we just mentioned that fungus likes growing in warm and wet
environment. Tight fitted pants, most especially jeans are a no-no. You should
avoid leotards and spandex as well. The tight contact of the clothes to your
skin prevents the area to breathe. The close skin contact also might cause some
uncomfortable feelings and also trigger some reactions worsening the situation.

Nylon material on your underwear is also a good thing to avoid. Cotton would be
ideal choice being clean and has a fabric that allows breathing space. Likewise,
avoid pantyhose. Or you really want to wear pantyhose, just wear cotton
underwear underneath.

Other tips that we suggest cover your personal hygiene. Keeping yourself clean
especially down there is something that all women should do. Keeping your
vagina clean and dry after you take a bath or a shower will help prevent the
unnecessary growth of the Candida fungus. If you're accustomed in using
deodorant napkins, perfumed tampons, or other feminine hygiene products that
have been colored or perfumed, start avoiding them right away. Stick with the
all natural stuff. It's better for you, for the environment, and especially
better for me.

If you have a pretty active sex life, be sure to insist using condoms. Although
yeas infection is not a sexually transmitted disease, having safe sex is just a
good advice. Okay, let's move on shall we?

Normally medicines should be good for you but in order to prevent yeast
infection, it is best to avoid antibiotics since this will upset the balance of
microorganism in your body favoring the growth of the Candida fungus. Unless
prescribed by your doctor, stay away from antibiotic pills for a while.

Also, foods high in carbohydrates and sugar are a source of food for the yeast
as well. So unless you want to keep feeding your yeast something that will help
it grow, then you better stick with some fresh foods like vegetables and fruits
for a while. Also, in eating your food, it has been recommended to eat fresh
fruits and vegetables separately from cooked food. When you combined cooked and
fresh, the food will tend to ferment in your stomach. The fermented food will
harbor the growth of more bacteria aside from the fungus that you already have.

The more you should learn t control your food intake if you are diabetic.
Monitoring and keeping the appropriate amounts of sugar level is a good way to
keep you healthy as well as keep the fungus at bay.

These are but a few tips to prevent yeast infection. As you move along your
research, you will get to know more about the techniques that can be used to
avoid yeast infection as well as other methods that would help you cure the
infection, in case you already have one.

A step ahead, preventing yeast infection

There are a lot of ways to avoid yeast infections. With just observing some
basic hygiene and healthy lifestyles, you can avoid the embarrassment, anxiety
and even anguish that are brought about by having an infection. That is why we
emphasize the advantage of knowing and applying the different ways in
preventing yeast infection. It is better to be prepared now than suffer the
consequences later.

Several experts on the subject have recommended a number of procedures for
preventing the overgrowth of yeast in our body. From changing your diet to
adapting several health preferences, one can decrease the chance of having a
massive growth of yeast.

Among the first advices would be maintaining a clean body. Yeast loves areas
that are most. The more you tolerate having these areas, the more chance you'll
have an infection in your hands. So it would be a good idea to keep the vaginal
area dry whenever possible. This includes after you had a swim, had a rigorous
exercise, or had taken a shower. Dry the area thoroughly. Take off wet clothing
immediately. You never want to give the yeast an opportunity to grow.

Speaking of clothes, a better chance of preventing such an infection would be
to wear clothes that are made from light materials and provides enough
ventilation. There's a higher chance that the yeast grow excessively in the
vaginal area due to wearing tight pants, jeans and other pieces of clothing. It
would be better to wear cotton made clothes to allow the skin to breathe and
helps with the prevention of yeast overgrowth. Cotton panties would be a better
choice than nylon and lycra since the latter two can trap air which is an ideal
environment for yeast growth. Panty hoses are also not recommended unless you
wear cotton underwear underneath.

Maintain a healthy and clean body. That is a basic necessity and should be
observed whether you have or don't have an infection. Washing your heads every
time you go to the bathroom would be a good start. Also be aware that scented
tissues, pads or tampons, feminine spray products, and even deodorants can
cause irritation to the vagina and can in turn increase the growth of yeast in
the area resulting to a full yeast infection. And definitely avoid using
douches since it washes away the natural protective membrane of the vagina.
This leaves the vagina more susceptible to, not only yeast, but other
infections as well.

Moreover, petroleum-based lubricants should be avoided during sexual
intercourse. Water-based lubricants are a better option since it does not
trigger the overgrowth of yeast in the vagina area.

Sugary foods might also trigger the growth of yeast. It would be a good idea
then to watch your sugar intake. According to studies, yeast tends to grow
faster with a higher level of sugar in the blood and in the digestive system.
You might need to avoid sugary foods but plain yogurt is good for you. Yogurt
contains microorganisms that help balance out the growth of yeast. It contains
"friendly" bacteria so to speak. A cup a day of plain yogurt might help prevent
the growth of yeast.

Prevention is definitely a great move against yeast infections. If more women
learn to adapt a lifestyle that is not ideal for yeast growth, then they will
have no problems with the physical stress as well as emotional effects the
infection brings. Simple, small actions can do wonders in preventing yeast
infection.

Pinpointing Vaginal Yeast Infection Symptoms

Vaginal yeast infection is also referred to as candidiasis. It is a fungal
infection brought about by a number of species of Candida, of which Candida
Albicans is the most common type. This fungus is usually present on normal
human skin and in areas that are generally warm and moist. Under certain
conditions, a change in their environment causes them to increase in quantity
beyond normal, causing infection. There are, however, ways which may help you
properly identify vaginal yeast infection symptoms.

Not so normal sensations

The easiest way for a woman to make out if she has yeast infection is that she
itches severely in and around her vaginal area. The itching may not be present
at all times. But when it does, it itches a lot so badly she finds it difficult
to walk. It may also be accompanied by a burning sensation or be generally
painful for her to urinate.

Separating the issues

One good way to make a distinction of the burning sensation that is due to a
yeast infection and a urinary tract infection is to take notice when exactly
the burning occurs. If the burning sensation is felt when the urine reaches
outside, then she is most likely having yeast infection. This is due to the
acidic, coming into contact with the irritated of the vulva. Urinary tract
infection, on the other hand, causes a burning sensation as the urine passes
through the urinary tract on its way out.

A contained redness

Another yeast infection sign is the slight redness localized in the vaginal and
vulvar areas. Soreness and irritation of the said areas are also present, which
makes it for the woman to experience pain and discomfort during sexual
intercourse.

As mentioned earlier, Candida is normally present in the skin and in most areas
of the body that are warm and moist. This means that signs and symptoms of
candidiasis may also appear in different areas of the body in many different
ways.

A nasty clump of white stuff

Most women bracket together a thick discharge that looks like cottage cheese
with vaginal yeast infection. However, not everyone gets a discharge. In fact,
only about 20% of infected women experience it. The discharge may have a
starchy odor to it -- something that resembles the smell of bread or beer -- or
sometimes none at all. Its consistency may typically range from thick and not
clumpy at all, faint yellow to white, and to thin and clear.

Since not everyone who has vaginal yeast infection gets a discharge, still the
best and easiest way for a woman to tell whether or not she is experiencing
yeast infection symptoms is that she itches in and around the vaginal area.

Aside from the vaginal infection

Oral candidiasis, or oral thrush, is characterized by white, lacy patches that
can form on the palate, tongue, or elsewhere in the oral cavity. These patches
sometimes appear resembling curdled milk. Candidiasis may also appear as red
flat rashes with scalloped edges in diaper areas and skin folds. Satellite
lesions -- smaller patches of rashes nearby -- usually are also present, which
may cause itching and pain in the area. Male yeast infection, although less
common, include symptoms such as red patch sores of the glans penis and the
foreskin.

There will be some differences to its vaginal yeast infection symptoms
counterpart, but for the most part they are similar. In people with weakened
immune system, candidal infection may also affect the esophagus and the stomach.

Say aaah! yeast infection in the mouth

It's called oral thrush. When the mouth develops an infection in the mucous
membranes, there can be a number of reasons behind it. It can be caused by
fungus, by bacteria, or by a disease. One of the more probable causes of mouth
infection is the fungus Candida albicans. The yeast infection in the mouth of
babies is commonly called thrush while those that occurred in the mouth and
throat of adults are referred to as candidiasis or morniliasis.

Candida which is also known as Monilia (hence morniliasis) is a naturally
occurring fungi that looks like yeast. It is normal to find Candida in small
amounts in the digestive track as well as in the vaginal tracks of women. You
might have heard of yeast infections in women, this is the same Candida that
causes the yeast infections in the mouth. Commonly, the infection begins when
the Candida which should normally be in just small quantities start growing
rapidly. The fungi then infect the moth and throat by targeting the tissues or
by producing some toxins which causes some burning and quite painful sensations.

A number of reasons can trigger the infection of Candida in the mouth and
throat areas. One of these is taking antibiotics. Drug treatments like
chemotherapy also make the body more susceptible to yeast infections. These
drugs make the environment more favorable for Candida growth. The other
microorganism that keeps the yeast in place is reduced due to the effects of
the drugs allowing an overgrowth of the Candida fungi.

Diabetes, malnutrition, drug abuse and a compromised immune system can also
induce changes which make Candida growth more favorable. This is why babies and
people with advanced age are more likely to develop oral yeast infections. Their
immune system is still not that strong to withstand any small change in their
environment.

Also, it has been found out that people with dentures that don't fit well are
more likely to develop yeast infection in the mouth that those with perfectly
fitted dentures. Dentures that don't fit well might damage the mucous membranes
in the mouth. The damaged areas may serve as a doorway for the Candida fungi to
invade the tissues.

Oral yeast infections have been observed to have discharges that vary from
white to cream-coloured. At times, yellow spots in the mouth are also good
indications that yeast has already grown considerable and began infecting the
mucous membranes of the mouth. This can become unbearable to adults since oral
yeast infections comes with burning sensation in the mouth and throat.

In treating the infection, the cause of the problem needs to be addressed. If
dentures appear to be the trigger, then replacing them would be the first step.
A compromised immune system, however, might be a little tricky. But doctors will
find a way around it.

Treatment does not stop there. You will be directed to take antifungal drugs to
help eliminate the fungi from your mouth and throat. Most often, the antifungal
drugs used for treating oral yeast problems come in the form of pastilles. By
sucking on the pastilles, the antifungal medicine acts on the infection
directly.

Firstly, the condition that caused the thrush must be brought under control.
This might involve investing in new and better fitting dentures, or adjusting
diabetes treatment. For AIDS patients, it is not always possible to correct the
immune deficiency, and a course of oral treatment using antifungal drugs has to
be used.

There are cases, however, that the infection has become severe that antifungal
pastilles are no longer effective. There are other treatment options for yeast
infection in the mouth at your disposal. So, don't worry, I'm sure your doctor
will guide you all the way.

Really? Hydrogen peroxide for yeast infection

Whether you believe it or not, the use of hydrogen peroxide for yeast infection
treatment has been proven to be true and quite effective. Vaginal yeast
infection is among the more common conditions that women experience. In fact,
according to statistics, about 75% of all women will be affected by the
infection at some point. It may already be considered as an ordinary condition
so don't be alarmed. You're not the only one who has the infection and
certainly you will not be the last one.

Microorganisms that live on human skin and in the digestive track are the
primary cause of yeast infection. Called Candida albicans, these microorganisms
are naturally occurring and lives on the skin and inside your vagina. They are
usually in small numbers, however some stimuli would trigger an overgrowth of
Candida causeing the body to react resulting to an infection accompanied by
itching, redness, irritations, and white or yellowish discharge.

Vaginal yeast infection is highly treatable so you don't have to be overly
concern. There are already a number of commercially available drugs which are
quite effective in treating yeast infection. Home remedies also are quite good
if you know what you're doing. Hydrogen peroxide in particular is an easy home
made solution to your yeast infection problems.

Just like Candida albicans hydrogen peroxide is already present in the vaginal
areas. It's already there working its best in putting the yeast infectious
microorganism at bay. However, due to certain conditions, the environment in
the area becomes suddenly favorable to the growth of Candida. Hydrogen peroxide
generally helps eliminate bacteria and fungal infections. It is a natural enemy
of Candida and thus can be utilized fully as a treatment procedure for the
infection.

Since our body produces only very little hydrogen peroxide, you can help by
purchasing commercially available ones in the local supermarket or in your
neighborhood pharmacy. What you can do is mix a teaspoon of ordinary 3%
hydrogen peroxide to a cup of water and apply it on the affected areas. Because
hydrogen peroxide is produced naturally by the body, the chemical does not harm
your vagina or the general health of your body.

What makes hydrogen peroxide very effective against Candida is the fact that
peroxides breaks down into water and oxygen upon application. The oxygen helps
the chemical application kill the fungal yeast infection. You need to be
careful, however, when creating your own mix of hydrogen peroxide treatment
solution. Too much hydrogen peroxide in the solution can cause a burning
sensation in the affected areas. This burning sensation may likely to occur
especially if the area has been inflamed or the infection is already quite
serious.

A teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide on a cup of water seems to be an okay and safe
mix. So far no bad reactions or complaints have been noted against this mixture
of hydrogen peroxide and water for treating yeast infection.

You need to understand, however, the using the mixture of hydrogen peroxide and
water is not meant to be a sole treatment solution for yeast infection. Natural
remedies like this one is more effective when combined with other forms of
treatment like proper diet and the use of other treatment techniques like the
use of garlic paste, yogurt, and cider vinegar and water mix.

Other times, the condition might have reached an already critical stage that
hydrogen peroxide for yeast infection treatment is no longer advisable. You
need to consult a doctor and employ several other methods of treatment to cure
your yeast infections.

Getting wet while having a yeast infection

It is very common that people believe a number of fallacies, myths and urban
legends just because of hearing some weird stuff from a friend who saw or heard
something from another friend. The chain goes on and on until it reaches a point
that what started out to be false become accepted as truth. Let's focus on the
problem at hand, shall we? It has been said that swimming or getting wet with a
yeast infection would aggravate your current condition.

Now, having yeast infection may result to having some restrictions but it does
not mean you cannot enjoy some daily activities like exercising and in this
case swimming. On the contrary, keeping your body fit by exercising may be more
beneficial for treating your infection. As you exercise, body wastes are removed
from your system. It also helps restore balance within the body.

One of the reasons behind yeast infection is that fact that there is a massive
growth of Candida albicans in the body. Candida is a fungi that resembles
yeast. It is a naturally occurring organism and finding it in our body,
specifically in the digestive track and vulva area, should not be a reason to
be extremely alarmed. It is the unusually growth of Candida that causes the
imbalance of microorganism in the body resulting to a Candida infection.

So does swimming have anything to do with worsening the infection? According to
some observations and studies, it does not. You can go swimming all you want, on
cold water or hot warm water even. What concerns me is what comes after swimming
your heart's out.

The process of swimming itself does not but keeping yourself wet during long
periods of time wearing damp or moist clothes can affect the infection. By
wearing damp clothing over long periods of time, you are creating a very
favorable environment for the growth of Candida. Just like all other fungi,
Candida like dark and damp areas to grow.

Also one of the things that keeps circulating is the notion that yeast
infection can be passed on to others swimming in the same pool. That is not
true at all. If you're swimming in a pool, the chemicals that keep the pool
clean will keep the microorganisms from being passed on to others. So don't
worry yourself that much about swimming with yeast infection. Just be more
concerned in keeping yourself dry after you're done with your swim. That is the
most important thing. The same goes with sweaty clothes if you're accustomed to
working out.

You can avoid yeast infection by not using perfumed soaps all the time. The
strong components of the soap can irritate the vaginal area. Natural
non-perfumed soaps would be the best choice. Taking antibiotics might also
cause some yeast problems. The antibiotics generally upset the balance between
the fungi microorganisms and other organisms in the body. So to help maintain
balance of microorganism in the body, you can start with a diet of plain
yogurt. Avoid the sweetened stuff for the sugar content can also trigger the
growth of the Candida fungi.

Another avoidance technique is wearing loose clothing instead of sticking with
your slick, tight attire. The more loose the clothes, the better when it comes
to yeast infection. Having too tight pants do not allow the skin in the
affected area breathe. Furthermore, cotton would be the ideal choice of
clothing material instead of nylon or any other material.

So getting wet while having a yeast infection definitely does not cause any
further problems with the infection as long as you keep yourself dry afterwards
and observe some hygiene conditions.

Helpful Tips in the Prevention of Yeast Infection

Vaginal yeast infection is caused by a fungal infection. The culprit, commonly
Candida Albicans, is usually present on normal human skin and in other areas
that are generally warm and moist. But whenever a change in their environment
sets off their multiplication beyond normal quantity, vaginal yeast infection
occurs. Prevention of yeast infection is not at all that tricky, provided you
follow a few helpful tips.

- Always put on underwear that allows the area to breathe. The best material
for underwear to be made of is cotton. Synthetic materials, such as Nylon or
Lycra, may trap moisture in and around the vaginal area. So use panties made of
all cotton, not just around the crotch area.

- As much as possible, avoid wearing tight clothing such as tight pants or
pantyhose. Don't use pantyhose alone; wear cotton underwear beneath it. Try to
stay away not only from skin tight clothing, but also from those that are made
of synthetic materials. A tight and moist environment provides for growth of
yeast.

- Wipe from front to back every time after using the toilet. Yeast normally
dwells in the intestinal area. Wiping otherwise than the prescribed front to
back will only transfer the yeast from the rectum to the vaginal area.

- Dry the vaginal area thoroughly with a clean towel after showering or
swimming. Remember that a moist environment only encourages the growth of yeast
which may lead to infection. Try to remove your wet bathing suit after swimming
as soon as possible.

- Try not to use any perfumed products in the vaginal area. Spare yourself from
irritations which may eventually lead to infections by avoiding the use of
scented or colored toilet paper, tampons, pads or panty liners. The chemicals
used especially for such products can be irritating to the vaginal area.

- Staying away from the douche may do you no harm. Douching is not good for you
because it washes away the naturally existing protective mucous of the vagina
and it upsets the normal pH balance of the vagina. Imagine if the good bacteria
in your vagina, like Lactobacillus, is washed out of it by douching -- it only
causes the bad ones to multiply and cause infections.

- Remember not to use petroleum based products as substitute lubricants for
vaginal lubrication when engaging in sexual intercourse. Always opt for water
based lubricants instead. Using lubricants such as petroleum jelly is an oil
by-product; not only is it bad for latex condoms, but it also provides an
environment suitable for the proliferation of yeast.

- Try not to wear any undergarment, underpants or pajama bottoms to bed.
Remember that a moist environment encourages growth of yeast. Letting your
vaginal area exposed to natural air keeps it dry, thus inhibiting yeast from
multiplying. Wear a night gown instead, or you may also go bare.

- Research has shown that daily consumption of yogurt also helps in the
prevention of yeast infection. Yogurt contains the bacterium Lactobacillus
acidophilus, which aids in counterbalancing the multiplication of yeast
whenever a disruption in the balance of microorganisms in the body occurs.
However, eating yogurt alone will not cure a vaginal yeast infection.

Prevention of yeast infection is simple once you abide by the list above. The
fundamental approach is to create and maintain an environment which inhibits
the growth of yeast in the vaginal area.

The Ten Best Cures for Yeast Infection

(and They're All Natural, Too!)

If you are suffering from yeast infection, chances are your doctor would
prescribe topical ointments or ingestible tablets from your local drugstore.
But these prescription drugs only aggravate this disease by helping spread the
yeast-like fungi Candida albicans. Listed below are the ten best cures for
yeast infection in the holistic style.

The first cure is prevention via proper hygiene. Yeast infection spreads
primarily through carelessness, whether by exposure to a sufferer, to Candida
albicans, or to chemicals which trigger yeast infection. Hence, no lending of
personal belongings, and dispose expired products properly.

The second cure is living a healthy lifestyle. Minimize drinking alcoholic
beverages and tap water. Because stress is a trigger, set aside time for
relaxation and sleep.

But what if you did not know these preventive measures? The next cure, then, is
to avoid ingesting drugs of any kind. Antibiotics kill the bacteria that monitor
the growth of Candida albicans. Other medicines to avoid include birth control
medication, immuno-suppressants and steroids.

One effective cure is a strictly regimented diet as determined by your doctor.
The standard Candida diet forbids affected individuals from eating the
following:

* Sugars, to the point that even fruit may not be allowed;

* Food with high yeast and mold content, like cheeses, dried fruit, melons and
  peanuts;

* Milk, dairy products, and food with high lactose content (this means that you
  cannot eat yoghurt, but you can use it to alleviate the effects of yeast
  infection in other ways).

This diet allows only the following:

* Water;

* Herbal teas;

* All vegetables;

* Sources of protein (meat is allowed, as are fish, poultry and legumes,
  although soy and soy products are known to have side effects);

* Whole grains like millet, brown rice, and oatmeal without sugar;

* Probiotic supplements;

* If possible, apples, blueberries, cherries, other berries, and pears.

Reading food labels is an absolute must for the cure to take effect. Sticking
to this diet even after the symptoms disappear not only boosts immunity, but
also curbs the Candida albicans population boom by reintroducing friendly
bacteria.

One way to relieve yeast infection is to apply natural antifungal agents like
garlic paste, extra-virgin coconut oil and diluted tea tree oil directly on the
skin. Grapeseed extract and tannins from tea and condiments fight chronic
infections excellently.

Women with vaginal yeast infection may find relief in a few drops of diluted
tea tree oil or a dollop of yoghurt. Application should be done at least twice
a day through inserting a tampon with either oil or yoghurt into the vagina.
This remedy must be continued one day after the symptoms disappear.

Ingesting licorice helps sufferers of endocrine yeast infection by stimulating
hormones without causing side effects. This sweet also can counteract the
estrogen loss endured by women with vaginal yeast infection through the release
of estrogen-like friendly steroids.

Another great cure is taking in electrolyte-heavy drinks. To make your own,
squeeze in half a lemon (full of essential minerals) in a glass of filtered
water, then add 1/4 teaspoon of Celtic sea salt (with 84 minerals). Drink it
six times during the day, with three of those six times during meals.

Cleansing your colon naturally washes out the toxins made by Candida albicans
and also makes the digestive system receptive to friendly bacteria. Recipes may
vary, but they usually involve a mixture of garlic or garlic extract, cayenne
peppers, apple cider or apple cider vinegar, and the spicy oregano oil.

So there you have the ten best cures for yeast infection. Take note that these
are not the only cures available, but these are the ones which have been proven
to work time and again. Do your research, and you may find one which works best
for you. Good luck!

Finding Yeast Infection Treatments

Yeast infection can strike at anyone at any age. It's a disease triggered by a
fungus called Candida Albicans that causes the body to produce abnormal amounts
of yeast. Although yeast is found everywhere in the body, too much of it can be
dangerous. The most common types of yeast infection are vaginal yeast
infection, thrush, diaper rash and nail bed infection. Yeast infection is a
highly treatable disease that virtually goes away without any complications.
There are a lot of available yeast infection treatments for each type of
infection and here are some of them.

Treating Vaginal Yeast Infections

Vaginal yeast infection is easily treated with over the counter antifungal
creams like Miconazole, Tioconazole, Butoconazole, or Clotrimazole which should
be applied to the infected area for one to seven days. Using birth control
methods like a condom or a diaphragm is not advisable during this period. For
pregnant women it's best to consult a physician for a remedy.

To prevent vaginal yeast infection from occurring, avoid using douches,
feminine sprays, scented toilet paper and deodorant tampons. It is also best to
wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight pants or panty hoses. When wearing
a wet suit or a bathing suit, it is recommended to change out of it right away.

Treating Thrush

The yeast infection of the mouth called thrush can be treated with medicated
mouthwashes or lozenges that dissolve in the mouth. A recommended mouthwash to
use should contain nystatin that can kill the yeast fungus.

The best prevention for thrush is maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing the
teeth at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day and using a mouthwash.
For those using dentures, clean them thoroughly before using it. For
breastfeeding mothers, it's best to have a breast check up for yeast infections.

Treating Diaper Rashes

Diaper rashes caused by yeast infection can be treated with over the counter
antifungal creams that contain nystatin or through supplements like acidophilus.

Protecting infants or adults from diaper rashes means keeping the covered area
clean at all times. It also helps to allow the skin to breathe by not using a
diaper at least an hour a day. It's also recommended to use cotton diapers more
often than the disposable ones since cotton allows the skin to breathe more
easily.

Treating Nail Bed Infections

Yeast infections of the nail bed are more difficult to treat. A prescription
for an antifungal pill is needed but it can also be treated with antifungal
laquer which is only proven to work in mild to moderate infections when the
nails have not yet been infected by the fungus.

To prevent this infection from occurring and recurring is to regularly keep the
skin dry and clean. It is also advised to avoid contact with anyone who is
infected with this disease. Wearing gloves when gardening also lowers the
chance of nail bed yeast infection from occurring. Another way to go about this
is to avoid sharing personal items such as nail clippers or socks.

Yeast infections and its different types are highly treatable and preventable
diseases which should last an average of one to two weeks and any time
exceeding this means a trip to the doctor. Information on yeast infection
treatments and preventions are available through online medical journals and
medical sites but for highly advanced states of yeast infection it's always
best to consult a physician.

Getting it right, diagnosing yeast infection

Knowing what you have is always part of the battle. In case of medical
conditions it is highly important to get the right diagnosis to get receive the
proper treatments. In some cases, a wrong assessment of a condition or illness
will result to more complications and can even lead to death. The same is true
with diagnosing yeast infection. More often than not, people will not consult
their doctors because they believe that what they have read on the internet
suffice to make an accurate diagnosis of the condition that they have.
Unfortunately, that is not always the case.

Yeast infection has been one of the more common infections that are often
misdiagnosed. Thinking that what they have is yeast infection, women will often
buy and apply various treatments in their attempt to cure a condition that they
do not have in the first place. So instead of being cured of a simple
condition, these women will end up with a more complicated condition requiring
full treatment procedures. They will then have to spend twice the time and
twice the money for their treatment. It's totally a waste.

Why does this keep happening? There are a number of reasons really but one of
them is the fact that we think we're better than the doctors we come to for
help. Some of us think that we are paying these doctors too much for simple
diagnosis that we can do ourselves. Or we think we are paying too much for the
medicine that they prescribe.

Other times we find our selves in a position as experts in a filed few, if
there's one at all, of us really know about. Just because we have experienced
having an itch or infection once or twice we think that we already know
everything, from causes to treatments. When faced with an itching predicament,
first thing you should do is wash the area with soap and warm water. This way
you can eliminate some of the other causes of itchiness in the affected area.

Now in terms of cleaning the affected region, one should avoid using various
products like douches and hygiene washes since these can easily irritate more
the vaginal area. Also, keep in mind that antibiotics can aggravate yeast
infection so it is recommended that one should not take any antibiotic pills
when one has yeast infection. In fact, even taking a single antibiotic pill can
worsen the infection.

Also, it is best not to panic in situations that you think you have yeast
infection. Sometimes the whitish discharge is just part of your menstrual
cycle. The same goes with pain and discomfort. However, if you are feeling pain
that seems to quite unusual, then consulting your doctor would be the best
action you should take.

Recurring infections should also be looked at by your doctor. If despite
several medications, the infection keeps coming back bringing with it the other
symptoms of the condition, then checking with your doctor is an absolute
necessity. There may be some underlying conditions behind which you failed to
notice or failed to consider.

Diagnosing yeast infection should not be done by amateurs like you and me.
Getting a right diagnosis is imperative to have a treatment schedule that would
efficiently help you solve your existing problems.

A diet to treat yeast infection

If you believe that yeast infection is something that you only get from direct
contact with someone that has it, then think again. There are a number of
possible causes of yeast infection. Among the possibilities include using oral
contraceptive pills, taking oral steroids, about to get your period, being a
diabetic, use of applications like soap, douche, hygiene products, and wearing
tight, damp, and/or warm clothing. There are a number of solutions to treat the
infection. But unknown to some, having the correct diet to treat yeast infection
is also as important.

Detoxing, that would be the more appropriate term when it comes to a yeast
infection diet. Yeast infection is a direct result of an overgrowth in some
areas of a natural occurring microorganism, or Candida albicans as it is known
in the scientific community. There may be some variations in the suggested diet
but most often than not, with a strict adherence to the regimen, it is possible
to encounter some relief from the infection in as early as three weeks.

One of the basic necessities in diet programs is drinking adequate amounts of
water. Water is an important aspect of detoxing. It helps flush out the toxins
inside the body. It has been also suggested that fresh fruit juices and even
green tea be added to the liquid intake. But emphasis is given to drinking at
least eight glasses of water per day.

It is also important to eat food that is fresh. It would be best to void
processed and highly fatty foods, not only for your yeast infection but for
your general health as well. Don't overcook your food as well. Foods have a
tendency to loose much of its nutrients when heat is applied so be sure to cook
your food just right. Steamed and sauteed would be the ideal cooking
preparations. Vegetables don't need cooking, just make it a salad and you're
ready to go. However, we do suggest that you avoid eating sweet vegetables like
carrots, corn, potatoes, onions, and sweet potatoes.

Eat a lot of garlic. Garlic contains antibacterial properties which help in
eliminating the overgrowth of yeast. Be generous with your fresh greens and
limit your intake of meat. Fish, beef, lamb, poultry and eggs are okay in
moderation. It has been suggested that an ideal serving of meat should be no
larger than half the size of your palm. Adding more to this portion would be
too asking to your digestive organs.

Sometimes there are other foods that you would like to include in your diet.
Eating the foods you like will not affect much your diet as long as you eat
them in moderation and in relatively small portions. Yogurt is something that
you could add as well as small servings of brown rice or buckwheat.

For condiments, sea salt is okay as well as pure virgin olive oil. In fact, you
can be liberal with the use of olive oil. Fresh ginger can be a good condiment
for your yeast problem as well. Plus you can use it in a number of dishes like
salads, tofu, meat dishes, and soups. Not only does it contain properties that
might help treat the infection, but it is generally good for your digestion as
well.

A good diet to treat yeast infection is a necessary step in the general
treatment of the infection. You must learn to be healthy when it comes to your
hygiene and the food you eat.

Pregnancy and yeast infection

Almost all women at some point of their lives will experience some problems
with their bodies, specifically in their private areas. Vaginal infection is a
pretty common occurrence among women most especially yeast infection.
Furthermore pregnancy and yeast infection seems to be always in tandem. More
pregnant women get infected by yeast due to several reasons, some of which may
be too hard for you to control.

Yeast infection is also referred to as monilial vaginitis or vaginal
candidiasis. The fungi Candida seems to be the main culprit in spreading out
the disease. More specifically, the fungus Candida albicans causes for most
part the infection in women's vagina area. However, do be aware that Candida is
already present in a woman's body. The fungus occurs naturally and should not be
a cause for alarm.

The food you eat, your personal hygiene and the even the lifestyle you live all
can affect the growth of the fungus in your vagina area. If you eat too much
sugar and carbohydrates, the fungus has a lot better chance of surviving and
growing eventually causing the full development of the yeast infection. High
sugar levels in the blood and body feeds the Candida fungus more.

For pregnant women, the usual cause of infection would be the changing estrogen
levels during pregnancy. As the estrogen level goes high during the months of
being pregnant, the body also produces high levels of glycogen. Now glycogen
will make the area more susceptible to yeast growth. This according to some
experts an a few studies. According to them, glycogen might cause the yeast t
grow faster and even allow the fungus to stick on the walls of the vagina.

Taking antibiotics will also help the growth of the fungus. If you have been
taking antibiotic pills for a long time, the harmful bacteria will be killed
but it may also affect the beneficial bacteria that grows in the vagina area
causing the fungus to overpower the helpful microorganisms. Once the fungus has
taken over the area, the body will tend to react too it resulting to an
infection.

Among the signs that you should look out for includes itchiness, irritation,
burning sensation, soreness and redness of the vagina and surrounding area.
These at least are the early symptoms of the infection. Once it progresses, you
might observe the discharge of an odorless, white, creamy chess-like liquid.
Also, I do not know how often you do it especially now that you're pregnant,
but be wary with the sex. The infection might cause some pain during secual
intercourse so it would be better to put things off for a while.

The good thing, and I know you mothers are already itching to know, yeast
infection does not have any negative effects on the baby inside the womb. The
infection will not affect the development of the baby as well.

Another good thing is that treating yeast infection cases in pregnant women is
the same with the treatments available to normal cases. However, it would be
better to consult your doctor since you don't know what possible effects yeast
infection medicine does to you. There are also over the counter antifungal
creams that could be prescribed to you by your doctor. There might be specific
product that are intended for yeast infections in pregnant women.

It is said that fifteen percent of all pregnant women will experience yeast
infection during their pregnancy. But do not be alarm, that's bad for the baby
so don't. Pregnancy and yeast infection might be hard to separate. But the
thing is yeast infection can be treated.

Be aware of the various symptoms of yeast infection

Yeast is a fungus. Yes that's something you should know about. Why? Well,
because knowledge is part of finding a solution to your problems. The truth is,
vaginal infections do vary. Despite some inherent similarities, there are
different causes of the infection and each one may require specific kinds of
treatment. If you don't know which one is which, you might end up applying a
different treatment which may cause more hard that good I bet. Yeast infection
symptoms don't have much unique characteristics which would allow you to
distinguish. Of course, we do encourage that you have your doctor examine your
condition to get more accurate diagnosis and thus a more effective treatment.

Yeast, or Candida as it is known scientifically, are present on any normal
human skin. Also, moist areas like the mouth and more specifically you vagina,
are common places where yeast can grow. Do not be alarmed. According to
studies, a large number of women carry yeast in their vaginal area. In fact it
is said that almost 50% of women have yeast. So, if it is normal why the
infection? There are actually several reasons, one of which is when there is an
excess presence of yeast in the area. Another one is when new yeast materials
are placed into the same area.

Some other reasons include taking oral contraceptives, diabetes mellitus, use
of vaginal sprays like perfume and even hygiene sprays for women.

There are several tell tale signs that you might have some infection in your
sensitive parts. But like what have been mentioned earlier, the symptoms of
vaginal yeast infection have a number of similarities with symptoms of other
infections

The first sign of possible yeast infection is experiencing itchiness in that
region. There may be several other conditions where itchiness is the primary
indication. That may be, but combining itchiness with the following other
symptoms would help you narrow down your list of culprits and eventually
identify the disorder as yeast infection. Other symptoms include burning, and
soreness. A good indication also would be if pain is being experienced during
intercourse.

Sometimes, pain is also felt during urination. You might want to have yourself
checked since pain should never be ignored. If you feel pain, and this applies
to all parts of your body, consult your doctor quickly. The matter might be
worse than you earlier thought it was.

Also, the presence of vaginal discharge may be a good indication as well. Take
note, however, that vaginal discharge is not always observed in women with
yeast infections. Nevertheless, it is something that you should take note of.
The discharge is often odorless and has a whitish color. The appearance and
texture is similar to, pardon the comparison, to cottage cheese. Vulvodynia is
the term used to describe the pain experienced in the vulvar area.

After knowing the symptoms and, of course, proper consultations from your
doctor, hopefully your yeast infections might have been cured completely. There
are times, however, when yeast infection occurs with the same women. An
estimated size of 5% will experience problems of recurring yeast infections.
The reasons why yeast infections recur may be due to more underlying medical
conditions that you have.

For the most part, it would be best to observe closely your health and the
various yeast infection symptoms to get to know what steps you would need to
undertake next.

Examining Yeast Infection Causes

Candidiasis is the scientific name for yeast infection. Yeast is everywhere in
our bodies particularly in our mouths, abdomen, under arms, nail beds or any
part of our body that has skin folds. For women, yeast can usually be found
under the breasts and the vagina. But if the yeast in our bodies reach more
than the normal levels, that's when yeast infection strikes. Yeast infection
causes our bodies to produce too much yeast and is triggered by a fungus called
Candida Albicans. This fungus likes to thrive in moist areas of our bodies. The
most common symptom of yeast infection is severe itching in the affected area.

Common Yeast Infections

Yeast infection can happen to anyone. In fact, it affects men, women and even
children. The most common types if yeast infection are, vaginal yeast
infections, thrush, diaper rashes and nail bed infections.

Vaginal Yeast Infection

The most frequent yeast infection in women is vaginal yeast infection when
there is abnormal growth of yeast in the vagina that causes vaginal burning,
itching and discharge. This type of infection is usually caused by taking
antibiotics and steroids but it can also be prompted by pregnancy, sperm,
diabetes and taking birth control pills. Vaginal yeast infection happens more
to women after menopause.

The first symptom of vaginal yeast infection is noticing a white cheesy
discharge from the vagina that causes the area to itch. Experiencing pain
during sexual intercourse and urination is another symptom.

Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection of the mouth. Thrush can occur to people who take
anti-inflammatory medicines, antibiotics or birth control pills. A person is
likely to get thrush if they are a smoker or wear dentures that are either too
loose or too tight. Mothers can also get thrush from their babies through
breastfeeding.

An indication that of thrush infection seeing white creamy cuts that appear
slightly raised anywhere in the mouth. These cuts can sting especially if they
are scratched off. Other symptoms of thrush include having trouble swallowing
and fever especially if the infection has spread to the throat

Diaper Rash

Diaper rashes can also be caused by yeast infection and it happens to babies
not older than two years old and to adults who use diapers. Since the candida
fungus thrives in moist places, it's not uncommon that it would infect the area
where the diaper meets the skin. Diaper rashes appear as bright red splotches in
the skin and it can occur after taking antibiotics.

It's easy to spot a diaper rash. The irritated area of a diaper rash can spread
all over a baby's bottom, their genitalia or in specific areas. It can also
appear in the folds of the skin.

Nail bed Infections

Yeast infection can also occur on the skin under the nails. Aside from the
common causes of yeast infection, nail bed infections also happen when the
hands are exposed to water frequently or when a manicure had been badly done.

Nail bed infections are painful and the area around the nail will appear red
and swollen. The worst kind of nail infection can cause the fingernail to
separate from the skin so that the nail bed turns into an ugly shade of yellow
or white.

Yeast infection is a treatable disease and it goes away without any
complications. These common types of yeast infections get cleared up in one to
two weeks. The best defense against yeast infection causes is having a strong
immune system that will protect you from the recurrence of the disease.

Some home remedies for yeast infection

You will never know what can be very useful in your kitchen. Just a little
flick of your hand, your basic ingredients and seasonings may become an
effective medical kit which can remedy injuries like simple cuts and get rid of
infections like yeast infections. The microorganisms Candida albicans, causes
yeast infections. But don't be surprised to know that home remedies for yeast
infection can be very effective in getting rid of theose microorganisms.

Candida is a kind of microorganism that is always present in our body. When its
environment, including our body, changes the growth of the fungi suddenly
increases which causes the infections. This change in the environment may vary
from acid and alkaline imbalance to poor nutrition. Some triggers also include
an increase intake of sugar, changes in the body's hormones, antibiotics, and
even birth control pills. Any one of these or combination of these factors can
trigger the proliferation of the fungi resulting to infections bringing with it
the problems of itching, burning, irritation, and the presence of white or
yellowish discharge.

Although a number of products are commercially available to help soothe the
discomfort brought by yeast infection, you might find these products a little
expensive or buying them would be quite inconvenient or you need the remedy
this instant. Also, there might be a chance that the fungi develop a resistance
to commercially available medicines.

Some of the remedies that have been recommended include the use of borax
especially if the yeast infection causes discharge that looks like egg white;
calcarea carbonica to help with the itching and burning sensations felt before
and after menstruation; kali bichromicum to remedy a very uncomfortable
discharge with itching and burning; natrum muriaticum; pulsatilla; sepia; and
sulphur.

You can fight microorganisms with other microorganisms. We're talking about the
use of probiotics which are friendly microbial organisms that occur naturally in
the digestive tract and vagina. The growth of probiotic microorganism suppresses
the growth of the Candida which cases the infections. It's a battle of
microorganisms.

There's a big chance that these remedies are not readily available in your
homes. There are natural and more home made remedies that are available to you.

Garlic has been found to be effective by some people when it comes to treating
yeast infections. What you can do is get a couple of garlic cloves and smash
and convert it into paste. You then apply that garlic paste around the vagina
area. The antibacterial properties of garlic can help in getting rid of those
pesky fungi. The only setback would be the smell.

A not so smelly alternative would be the use of honey. However, the smell may
not be as strong as garlic but the stickiness of honey would be quite
uncomfortable. Nevertheless, according to testimonials applying honey on the
affected regions helps alleviate the various symptoms of the infection. You
apply honey and leave it for about 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Another good antibacterial and antifungal remedy would be vinegar. Vinegar
mixed in warm water is said to be quite effective. You need to soak the area
for at least 20 minutes though to see and feel some effects. Cider vinegar is
said to be more effective.

These are but a few of the home remedies for yeast infection. There might be a
couple of others that you might heard of but before you decide to use them, it
would be best to ask around or read more about them to make sure that you won't
be doing more harm than good.

Facing the Facts of Vaginal Yeast Infection

Vaginal yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a brought about by the
abnormal increase in the number of species of Candida, of which Candida
Albicans is the most common culprit. A type of fungus, Candida Albicans is
normally present on the human skin and in various areas of the body where it is
generally warm and moist.

Under a variety of conditions, a change in the environment where they live in
causes them to increase in quantity beyond normal, causing the infection. Among
the signs and symptoms of vaginal infection include: itching, burning and
painful sensation in the vaginal area; redness and soreness in the affected
region; a noticeable discharge. Encountering these may help you properly
identify the signs and symptoms of vaginal yeast infection.

Itching, burning and painful sensation

For some women, the easiest way to identify if she is suffering from vaginal
yeast infection is that she itches severely in and around the vaginal area. The
itching may not be present at all times. But when it does, it itches so badly a
lot she finds it difficult to perform normal daily activities, such as to
ambulate.

Urination may also go together with a burning sensation, or be generally
painful for her to do so. But this bothersome urination may also be present
with other forms of infections, such as urinary tract infection (UTI). One good
way to tell apart the burning sensation that is caused by a yeast infection from
that which is caused by a urinary tract infection is to notice when exactly the
sensation is experienced. The urine is acidic in nature. So if the burning
sensation is felt when the urine reaches outside, then it is most likely
brought about by a yeast infection. Urinary tract infection, on the other hand,
causes a burning sensation as the urine passes through the urinary tract on its
way out.

Redness and soreness in the affected region

A slight to severe redness localized in the vaginal and vulvar areas is another
sign of yeast infection. Soreness and irritation of the said areas may also be
presenting symptoms, which make sexual intercourse an extremely painful
experience for the woman.

Unusual seepage down there

Most women associate a thick discharge that somewhat resembles cottage cheese
with vaginal yeast infection. Its consistency may typically range from thick
and not clumpy at all, faint yellow to white, and to thin and clear. The
discharge may or may not have a starchy odor to it, something that resembles
the smell of bread or beer. Yeast, by the way, is used in making bread as a
leavening agent, and in the fermentation of beer.

Since not everyone who has vaginal yeast infection gets a discharge, still the
best and easiest way for a woman to tell whether or not she is experiencing
yeast infection symptoms is that she itches in and around the vaginal area.

Yeast infection in other body parts

As mentioned earlier, Candida is normally present in the skin and in most areas
of the body that are warm and moist. This means that signs and symptoms of
candidiasis may also appear in different areas of the body in many different
ways.

Yeast infection may occur in the mouth, in diaper areas and skin folds. And in
people with weakened immune system, such as those with AIDS, yeast infection
may also affect the gastrointestinal tract, such as the esophagus and the
stomach.

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