Home Remedies For Yeast infections

Yeast infections are caused by a fungus scientifically named Candida Albicans. This type of infection occurs most frequently in the vagina and the inside of the mouth in the form of “thrush.” The best way to get rid of a yeast infection is with antifungal treatment, which you can buy over the counter at retail pharmacies, drug stores, or grocery stores. Yeast infections can be caused by a number of things including: fatigue, stress, hormonal changes during your period, antibiotics, and birth control pills.

There is an antifungal on the market called Diflucan (fluconazole), that is taken by mouth. It is given by your doctor. The other available treatments are administered vaginally. Lotrimin (clotrimazole), Monistat (miconazole), and Terazol (terconazole) come in vaginal tablets which are inserted into the vagina like a suppository. These suppositories are the most common method of treatment recommended by physicians. Each of these medications also comes in vaginal creams or ointments, but most women consider them messy. Since they add no more effectiveness than the easier to administer vaginal suppository, creams and ointments are losing popularity in the market.

If you are going to treat a vaginal yeast infection at home, there are a few things to consider. You must know the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. Symptoms include itching, burning, and a thick, white vaginal discharge. If you have never had a yeast infection you should see your physician for proper diagnosis to be certain you do not have a sexually transmitted disease or an immune disorder. Over the counter treatment is not recommended if you are pregnant, have never been treated for a yeast infection before, or if you have recurring yeast infections even though you have treated them with over the counter antifungal medications.

Once you get rid of your yeast infection it is important to understand how to prevent a recurring infection. Avoid using deodorant soaps and creams that can irritate your vagina. Wear underwear that does not hold moisture in your vaginal area. Cotton crotch panties are best choice to avoid yeast infections because they allow breathing through the fabric. Keep your vagina dry after swimming or showering and do not sit in wet clothes.

Your diet is important, too. You should keep a healthy blood sugar level. If you have a high sugar or carbohydrate diet you could be susceptible to yeast infections. Foods to keep in moderation when susceptible to yeast infections include: pastries and baked goods, white flour pasta, dairy products, and heavy condiments. You should try to eat a diet high in fiber and protein. Chicken, nuts, and fish are all good choices for protein. Steamed vegetables and fresh garlic are great natural antifungals.

If your condition persists for two weeks despite antifungal treatment you should seek the advice of your gynecologist or family doctor.

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Any woman that has had a yeast infection knows that uncomfortable feeling. You just know that everyone around you is aware of the problem, even though they probably have no idea. Between the itching, redness and possible odor this time in life is not pleasant. Tips on getting rid of a yeast infection vary from person to person, doctor or website.
Of course the most obvious way to rid yourself of a yeast infection would be store treatments. We all know about those little tube applicators and the medicine you get to use. These treatments come in 1, 3 and 7 day treatment formulas. It seems to me that the longer the treatment, the better the results. Also you get cream in most treatment packages that helps the outer areas to prevent itching and/or redness.
At home remedies are quite popular these days in getting rid of yeast infections. One way is to use yogurt as a bacteria fighting agent. The live cultures are great when ingested and if you take an empty tampon applicator and fill it with yogurt(unflavored). Then just stick the applicator in the freezer until it is frozen. The applicator is then inserted as a tampon would be. This helps with the itching and helps keeps things cool where you need it most. It might sound unorthodox, but it works.
The simpliest ideas for getting rid of a yeast infection are actually good common sense. Wearing cotton underwear is a start. Also thongs tend to spread bacteria and should be avoided. Wiping front to back is key in avoiding yeast infections. When showering use gentle body washes with little scent. Avoiding douching and if you feel like you must then use a vinegar and water based one. Keeping a watchful on things below will make for a better feeling above and beyond.

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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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