Yeast Infection: Description, Causes and Treatment

What is Yeast Infection?

This kind of infection is most common among women. However, many remain ignorant or unaware of this medical problem. It is important to know the symptoms, dangers, and related conditions of yeast infection to be able to treat it early on. It is also necessary to determine the various causes of this disease to be able to avoid it before it even happens. Finally, it will be most helpful for any female person if she is also knowledgeable of the several possible treatments for yeast infection to be able to curtail it immediately.

Not many women are familiar with the term “yeast infection”. However, more women are probably aware of or have experienced previously the symptoms of this condition. The top three signs of having yeast infection are itching, burning and pain, and discharge. Itching of any part of the skin or body is usually caused by an infestation of foreign organisms such as fungi or bacteria in a particular area of the body. In the case of yeast infection, the affected portion is the vaginal part and the surrounding areas. The infection can cause intense itching that rashes or redness usually develop secondary to scratching. Another indication is a burning or painful sensation in that area especially when urinating. The skin in a woman's vaginal part may already contain sores due to frequent scratching that when placed in contact with the acidity of urine may cause pain or a burning sensation. This feeling may be similar to that which is experienced when having urinary track infection, however, they occur at different areas of the body. Lastly, some women report of having discharges that are usually described as odorless, white, and cheese-like. At other instances, a starch-like odor is said to be observed from the discharges.

Yeast infection itself is not considered as highly dangerous, however, it can be very irritating and disturbing especially among women who are already preoccupied with other responsibilities or tasks. On the other hand, like most infections, it is highly transferable to other individuals including the opposite sex. Certain conditions of the body may make it easier for a person to acquire this disease such as diabetes and use of antibiotics.

Other health problems which are usually associated with yeast infection include urinary tract infections and possible complications during pregnancy. However, these are not scientifically-based and are yet to be proven or negated in future studies.

What causes Yeast Infection?

The scientific term for yeast infection is Candidiasis. This was derived from the the yeast organism or fungus-like Candida that causes this condition. Fungus thrives in dark and moist areas such as the vaginal area of women. Certain health conditions such as pregnancy and diabetes make people, especially women, more prone to acquiring yeast infection. Pregnancy causes a change in the metabolic balance and vaginal acidity of women which is more favorable to fungus growth. Fungus are also known to thrive among individuals with high sugar levels such as in the case of people with diabetes and those with defects in sugar metabolism.

What are the treatments for Yeast Infection?

Various oral medications such as Diflucan or fluconazole and topical treatments may be prescribed by doctors to cure yeast infection. Home remedies such as using yogurt and garlic, whether internally and externally, can also be done. It is, however, important to consult a doctor first prior to applying any of the available remedies to avoid complications and further harm.

Male Yeast Infection – Yes This Exist

It is a common thing to hear yeast infections occurring in women, but this almost seems like a myth in males. However, even men contract yeast infection (candidiasis) and they should be equally informed about this issue the same rate women are.

Although it can be sometimes transmitted sexually by an inflicted woman to an unaffected male yeast infection is not categorized under sexually transmitted diseases, such that not all males who contract it via sexual intercourse do so in all cases. The same Candida species (Candida albicans) though, that cause the infection in women are the same ones involved in men. It is thus, sometimes recommended by doctors to have a man get checked as well if his partner has yeast infection.

Another cause of male yeast infection is the use of condoms that are lubricated with the spermicide, nonxynol-9. Research links the said spermicide to the development of yeast infections in both men and women.

However, not all male yeast infections are contracted from sexual intercourse. There are yeast infections in males that are found in other parts of the body such as the mouth (oral thrush), ears, digestive tract and skin. These may occur due to external factors including medications, illness and lifestyle. A diet high in sugar - a substance that yeasts feed on – is one. Overconsumption of alcohol, particularly beer, may contribute to a yeast infection since beer is both high in yeast and glucose. In this light, diabetes mellitus can also be a cause, especially if the blood sugar is left unmanaged. Smoking is also said to put persons at an increased risk for oral thrush.

Excessive use of antibiotics can kill good bacteria in the body and lead to an exaggerated multiplication of yeasts. Other conditions that render a man’s immune system weak (making him immunocompromised), such as chronic steroid use, chemotherapy, HIV/AIDS and kidney transplant may provide favorable conditions for yeast to invade the body uncontrollably.

Signs and symptoms include redness, soreness and an itching sensation on the penis, especially the penile head. In some cases the condition may present with tiny blisters with red, itchy bumps. There may also be a white, cheesy discharge that smells of yeast. These may resemble the clinical presentation of some sexually transmitted diseases and so should any of these manifest, it is advisable to see a doctor to immediately.

Clinical manifestations of oral thrush on the other hand include slightly raised, “cottage-cheese” white lesions in the gums, inner cheeks, tongue, and tonsils and back of the throat. These are painful and may bleed if accidentally scraped by a brush. Cutaneous yeast infections signs and symptoms include cracked skin, itchy, red rashes and painful lesions that are sometimes accompanied with pus. Systemic infections are rare.

Male candidiasis is easily treated especially if given prompt attention. Physicians usually prescribe over-the-counter topical antifungal creams especially for infections on the penis. These are applied on the affected area twice daily for a week or two. Examples are Miconazole (Monistat) and Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex). Oral preparations may also be available like Fluconazole (Diflucan). In the case of oral thrush, antifungals are given in tablets, lozenges, liquids or ointment.

However many men do find the chemical methods of treating a male yeast infection can be quite harsh on the body, especially their skin. There are many very effective natural methods out there for treating yeast infections, which are far more gentle on the body and often more effective also.

Male Yeast Infection Symptoms

Male yeast infection symptoms can take some time to show. Men can have an infection and not even know it. This can make male yeast infection much more difficult to cure since the symptoms can present when the infection is already well established. Here, you'll find out what signs to look for and what you can do about them.

Male yeast infection symptoms are generally; enlarged / inflamed glans (head), chronic itching, blister-like spots on the glans, flaking skin, unusual discharge, pain when peeing, pain having sex, inability to have sex. But there can be other yeast infection symptoms like; acne, skin lesions, fatigue, irritability, memory loss, stiff / sore joints and muscles etc.

These signs are caused by the yeast-like fungi called 'Candida Albicans' which resides in the body, especially in the warm, moist areas like the penis, vagina, anus, mouth etc. It is normally kept from growing and spreading by your body's 'friendly' bacteria so that, under normal conditions, the Candida doesn't do you any harm.

But under certain conditions your good bacteria numbers can be reduced giving the Candida the chance to 'overgrow' into a full-blown infection. And there are other situations that can 'aid' its growth. The underlying conditions are things like; antibiotics, steroids, diabetes, stress, compromised immune system, underlying medical conditions and poor nutrition. There are more, but these give you the general idea.

Your male yeast infection symptoms are typically treated using drug-based topical creams. You get these on prescription or over-the-counter. And they can work well enough for many men over a week to two weeks. But many men find that their infection is taking too long to clear up, or, it just keeps coming back, again and again.

This can be down to the medication just treating the local symptoms and not the root cause(s). Also, the Candida can build-up a resistance to the drugs so that they lose their efficacy. When men are caught in this situation they suffer recurrent yeast infections that can seriously affect there relationships, especially sexual.

That's why so many are successfully implementing totally natural male yeast infection symptoms home remedies, that don't have the negatives of drug-based medications, and, are way cheaper too. Popular home remedies are things like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, garlic, plain yogurt, and a host of other things. And, no kidding, these things work according to their users.

But there are so many out there that you'd need to do a helluva amount of research to find the remedy or remedies that are right for you. And you also need to consider things like your diet, lifestyle issues, general health, weight, meds you may be on, etc. It is a lot of work, but worth it if you can eliminate your yeast infection fast and permanently.

Yeast Infection Pictures – What To Look For

Yeast infection pictures are not a pleasant sight, indeed. Anyone who is unsure whether the sores, bumps (and possibly smelly discharge) that they are experiencing is in fact candida spend time online searching for yeast photos to see if they can compare what they see on their own body to the "real thing". This article will review what types of candida photos might be available and whether or not these snapshots can really help you self-diagnose your own candida infection.

What To Look For In Vaginal Yeast Infection Pictures

Yeast vaginitis affects approximately 20%-50% of healthy women in their lifetime. While symptoms of excessive yeast in the vagina include burning, discomfort, odor and itching, this is not apparent in a picture. If you are looking at a pictures of a yeast infection in the vaginal area, you will see redness and swelling of the vulva along with some vaginal discharge that looks thick and watery - much like cottage-cheese.

What To Look For In Pictures Of A Male Yeast Infection

A penile candida infection does not affect as many men as women, however just ask any one man that is affected - it is downright painful and uncomfortable. Symptoms of a male yeast outbreak include soreness, irritation as well as general itchiness at the foreskin or head of the penis. If you are checking out a pictures of a yeast infection in the penis, you will see bumps, redness and blisters at the tip of the penis. The blisters could be either red or white in color. In severe cases, you might even see scabs from bleeding.

What To Look For In Oral Yeast Infection Pictures

Oral candidiasis (or thrush) mostly affects the mouth area, but sometimes can go deeper into the throat. A common symptom of thrush is the existence of white, creamy sores or lesions in your mouth - frequently found on your tongue or inner cheeks, however the bumps can also be found on you guys, tonsils, roof of your mouth or back of your throat. If you are looking at pictures of a yeast infection in the mouth, you will probably see a white, creamy "cottage cheese" film along with bumps and lesions on any of the areas mentioned in the mouth. You will also see red, peeling patches. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the esophagus - making it difficult to take a photograph.

Mouth Yeast Infection – Say aahh

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. Some people think that mouth yeast infection is a myth but studies show that more and more people are experiencing it.

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 mouth yeast infection . 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-color. 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 mouth yeast infection 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 anti fungal 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.

Skin Yeast Infections And How It Affects You

What is Skin Yeast Infection?

This kind of infection is most common among women. However, many remain ignorant or unaware of this medical problem. It is important to know the symptoms, dangers, and related conditions of yeast infection to be able to treat it early on. It is also necessary to determine the various causes of this disease to be able to avoid it before it even happens. Finally, it will be most helpful for any female person if she is also knowledgeable of the several possible treatments for yeast infection to be able to curtail it immediately.

Not many women are familiar with the term “yeast infection”. However, more women are probably aware of or have experienced previously the symptoms of this condition. The top three signs of having skin yeast infection are itching, burning and pain, and discharge. Itching of any part of the skin or body is usually caused by an infestation of foreign organisms such as fungi or bacteria in a particular area of the body. In the case of yeast infection, the affected portion is the vaginal part and the surrounding areas. The infection can cause intense itching that rashes or redness usually develop secondary to scratching. Another indication is a burning or painful sensation in that area especially when urinating. The skin in a woman's vaginal part may already contain sores due to frequent scratching that when placed in contact with the acidity of urine may cause pain or a burning sensation. This feeling may be similar to that which is experienced when having urinary track infection, however, they occur at different areas of the body. Lastly, some women report of having discharges that are usually described as odorless, white, and cheese-like. At other instances, a starch-like odor is said to be observed from the discharges.

Yeast infection itself is not considered as highly dangerous, however, it can be very irritating and disturbing especially among women who are already preoccupied with other responsibilities or tasks. On the other hand, like most infections, it is highly transferable to other individuals including the opposite sex. Certain conditions of the body may make it easier for a person to acquire this disease such as diabetes and use of antibiotics.

Other health problems which are usually associated with yeast infection include urinary tract infections and possible complications during pregnancy. However, these are not scientifically-based and are yet to be proven or negated in future studies.

What causes Skin Yeast Infection?

The scientific term for yeast infection is Candidiasis. This was derived from the the yeast organism or fungus-like Candida that causes this condition. Fungus thrives in dark and moist areas such as the vaginal area of women. Certain health conditions such as pregnancy and diabetes make people, especially women, more prone to acquiring yeast infection. Pregnancy causes a change in the metabolic balance and vaginal acidity of women which is more favorable to fungus growth. Fungus are also known to thrive among individuals with high sugar levels such as in the case of people with diabetes and those with defects in sugar metabolism.

What are the treatments for Yeast Infection?

Various oral medications such as Diflucan or fluconazole and topical treatments may be prescribed by doctors to cure yeast infection. Home remedies such as using yogurt and garlic, whether internally and externally, can also be done. It is, however, important to consult a doctor first prior to applying any of the available remedies to avoid complications and further harm.

Vagina Yeast Infection – Understanding It

Vagina Yeast infection is uncomfortable, embarrassing, and have an adverse effect on the quality of a woman’s life. Yeast infections are caused by a fungus called “candida albcans”. Yeast infections are overgrowth of normally growing fungi in the vagina. When this fungus grows out of control for many reasons including those described below, the vagina becomes inflamed, and a white cheesy discharge results. There is a strong odor, irritation and itching. Naturally occurring bacteria in the body usually control the yeast fungi. Sometimes this balance is upset. At least 75% of women experience a yeast infection at some point in their life. Disruption of this natural balance may occur with any of the following:

Excessive use of antibiotics, Diabetes, A weakened immune system (for example from HIV/AIDS, steroid use, pregnancy, cancer chemotherapy or other drugs that weaken the immune system), Use of douches or feminine hygiene sprays, Tight or non cotton underwear, Hormonal changes, Ovulation, Menopause, Pregnancy, Use of birth control pills, Use of hormone therapy. When the levels of this fungus exceed the bodies ability to destroy the invader, the fungus grows out of control. Vaginal yeast infection can be spread to the male urethra through sexual intercourse.

Generally speaking, the same things that lower our immunity and make it possible to contract other ailments, also make it possible to contract yeast infections. Stress is a major contributing factor. When we are is a stressful situation, or living a stress filled life, our bodies concentrate on dealing with the stress. When this occurs, our ability to fight disease, any disease, is lessened.

Some women experience an increase in yeast infections at menopause due to the tremendous hormonal changes that are occurring. Taking excessive antibiotics is a contributing factor. Antibiotics kill not only disease causing bacteria, but helpful bacteria that help our bodies fight disease.

Other contributing factors are excessive douching and use of scented feminine hygiene products. Any external product poses a risk for an individual who is susceptible to infection. Tight fitting clothes that don’t allow adequate blood and air circulation at the infected area are a problem. Its much easier to prevent a vagina yeast infection than to cure one, so remembering all of these potential causes is the first step to preventing the problem in the first place.

Now I know this sounds like just a list of causes, but remember that we said the important thing was prevention. If you are susceptible to yeast infection, avoid bubble baths, irritating soaps and perfumed toilet paper. Avoid harsh detergents used to wash undergarments. Rinse your laundry thoroughly so that there is no detergent residue.

Diet has a big impact on candida yeast infections. Dairy products can lead to infection in some women as can most grain products, nuts and high sugar foods. Knowing the cause of the infection is important to prevention.

If you have taken every possible precaution to prevent infection, and you still suffer recurrent vagina yeast infection problems, then its time to start looking at remedies. There are several anti fungal drugs that are used in treatment, as well as a cornucopia of herbal and holistic treatments. If prevention was unsuccessful, and the holistic remedies failed, see your doctor. There is a great deal of long term damage that can be cause by long term and recurrent yeast infection. Take heart yeast infections are preventable and curable.