There are millions of people suffering from yeast infections every year. Yeast infections are somewhat easy to treat, however, yeast infections can cause one to feel a certain level of embarrassment. The stigma associated with having a yeast infection can prevent many people from seeking proper diagnosis and treatment. The vast supply of yeast infection creams that are provided without prescription make it very easy to self diagnose. There are many individuals who are treating yeast infections when they actually have something else.

A yeast infection is caused by a fungus called the Candida. A yeast infection looks like a cheesy white discharge. Yeast infections can cause itching, soreness, and a burning sensation which can often cause a great degree of discomfort. Yeast infections can also cause pain during intercourse and urination. People who suffer from yeast infections can find comfort knowing that there are a wide variety of products available to treat their problem. There are topical creams that are applied in and around the vaginal area.

Topical products that are available include, Lotrimin, Monistat, and Terazol 3. Oral medicine are also available to help clear up yeast infections. There are some things that can disrupt the vagina’s balance causing yeast infections. Antibiotics, oral contraceptives, stress, soaps, powders, pregnancy, and clothing that is not breathable, can disturb the vagina’s balance causing yeast infections.

Individuals who have recurring symptoms, or symptoms that don’t clear up with over the counter products should consult their physician. To diagnose a yeast infection a vaginal exam will be performed. A yeast infection looks like a thick white discharge that will be examed by your physician under a microscope. Once you have been diagnosed with a yeast infection then your physician can provide proper treatment.

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A group of fungi referred to by the scientific name Candida is commonly present on all surfaces of the body. Under certain conditions, these fungi can multiply and cause an infection called candidiasis, or yeast infection. This occurs mainly in warm, moist areas of the body, such as in the mouth, underarms, and vaginal or groin areas, or in folds of skin.

Oral yeast infection is known as thrush and commonly occurs in infants and the elderly. Certain skin rashes (including diaper rash), nailbed infections, and vaginal yeast infections are all forms of candidiasis. Persons with weakened immune systems often experience more serious yeast infections, which may spread to the blood stream and internal organs.

*Causes of Yeast Infections*

There are many causes of yeast infections. Medications, hormonal changes, steroid use, diabetes, and diseases which weaken the immune system all contribute to the growth of yeast.

Infants often develop thrush, a yeast infection of the mouth; the warm, moist environment created by diapering also causes diaper rash. With aging, the likelihood of thrush is again increased. Where skin is not exposed to the air (in skin folds and under nails), Candida overgrowth is also likely to occur.

Use of antibiotics and birth control pills, as well as the hormonal changes of pregnancy and menstruation, are contributing factors in developing yeast infection in women. Yeast infections may be transferred between sexual partners, as well.

Diets high in sugars and carbohydrates may also be responsible for the occurrence of yeast infection, likewise the consumption of alcohol.

Recurrent yeast infections may in some cases be an indicator of a more serious condition, such as diabetes, leukemia, cancer, or AIDS. Patients with these more serious diseases, which weaken the immune system, are especially vulnerable to yeast overgrowth

*Symptoms of Yeast Infections*

Symptoms of candidiasis vary depending on the location on the body. Oral yeast infection, or thrush, presents as a white, milky patch covering the tongue and other surfaces of the mouth. It resembles curdled milk, but cannot be wiped away easily. Attempting to swab at the patch may cause pain and bleeding.

Vaginal yeast infections in women appear as a whitish, cheesy discharge and may cause itching, burning, and occasionally abdominal cramps.

Yeast infections on the skin’s surface, such as diaper rash, cause a flat, red rash accompanied by itching and burning.

Although rare, systemic (internal) yeast infections are characterized by cramping, fever, and abdominal pain, and urgent medical attention is necessary to diagnose and treat these symptoms.

*Yeast Infection in Men*

In men, yeast infection often presents as a rash on the skin, particularly in the genital or groin area. Symptoms may include irritation, soreness, itching and burning; a red rash or small red bumps may occur on the head and shaft of the penis, and some men may experience a lumpy discharge.

Candidiasis may be transferred by a sexual partner; use of antibiotics or steroids, a weakened immune system or heavy consumption of sugars and carbohydrates are also contributing factors.

*Vaginal Yeast Infection*

In women, vaginal yeast infection presents as a white, lumpy discharge resembling cottage cheese. Vaginal itching and burning may occur, and women suffering from a yeast infection may experience pain or discomfort during intercourse.

The hormonal changes created by menstruation, pregnancy, and birth control pills create the conditions needed for Candida overgrowth; use of antibiotics also changes the environment of the vagina and promotes yeast infection. Women may also contract a yeast infection from a sexual partner.

*How Long Does a Yeast Infection Last?*

Most oral, vaginal, and skin infections, including diaper rash, are cleared in a week or two with treatment.

Yeast infections which last more than one week, or recurring infections, should be treated by a doctor as they may indicate a more serious condition.

*Treating Yeast Infection*

Most yeast infections in healthy adults and children can be easily treated with an over-the-counter remedy.

Oral thrush requires a prescription medication, usually nystatin, which is swabbed inside the mouth; children and infants with thrush should be monitored for fluid intake and watched for signs of dehydration. If fever or prolonged feeding problems occur, a doctor should be consulted. Breastfeeding mothers should also be examined for signs of breast candida. For adults with thrush, antifungal lozenges and pills are available in addition to nystatin.

Yeast infections of the skin, including diaper rash, can be treated with over-the-counter nystatin creams or other topical anti-fungal lotions. Diaper rash can also be avoided by frequent diaper changes to ensure that the area is kept clean and dry. Babies who are prone to diaper rash should be left without a diaper as often as possible to leave the skin exposed to air. Application of zinc oxide ointments such as Desitin or Balmex also protect the skin of the diaper area and help to prevent diaper rash.

There are any number of over-the-counter remedies for vaginal yeast infections. The most common are Miconazole, Chlotrimazole, Tiocomazole, and Butoconazole. Any vaginal yeast infection lasting more than a week or accompanied by bleeding, cramping, or fever should be treated by a medical professional, as these may point to a more serious underlying condition. Women who are pregnant should consult a doctor before using any over-the-counter treatments for vaginal yeast infection.

Any person with a weakened immune system or serious illness should seek medical attention immediately if they experience yeast infection, especially if bleeding, fever, or abdominal cramping is present. In some of these cases, Candida may enter the blood stream and cause systemic yeast infection, which is life-threatening in some instances.

Even with treatment of vaginal infections in women or genital infections in men, sexual partners should use a condom until all symptoms have cleared. Doing so will prevent passing the yeast infection back and forth to one another.

*Home Remedies for Yeast Infection*

Most home remedies for yeast infection are preventive in nature. For women in particular, wearing loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear is useful for avoiding yeast infections; proper hygiene is also recommended. There is some wisdom that eating yogurt with live L-acidophilus cultures is useful in staving off yeast infection. Avoiding foods high in sugar and carbohydrates is also suggested. For some women, a change in their method of birth control may be necessary to control recurring yeast infections; douches and perfumed sprays should also be avoided.

Probiotic treatments (containing forms of the acidophilus bacteria) are available in some natural health stores and can also be ordered from natural-living websites. Others seeking a natural treatment for yeast infection have suggested coconut oil.

It is wise to be cautious in pursuing home remedies for yeast infections. Mixed results have been reported with some, and others (such as treating the infection with boric acid) are extremely dangerous and should never be attempted.

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