Candidiasis, commonly known as yeast infection is caused by a group of microscopic fungi or yeast. Present on all surfaces of the body, the problem with candida occurs when they multiply in numbers and cause an infection. This is particularly problematic in warm, moist areas such as the vagina, mouth, underarms, and nail bed and in small children, the diaper area.
Yeast infections can and regularly do occur after taking an antibiotic. In women, vaginal yeast infections result in burning, itching, and heavy discharge. Yeasts are commonly found in women’s vaginas and it is only after the overgrowth of the yeasts that the problem occurs. Along with antibiotics, steroids are a main cause of the overgrowth of yeasts in the vagina.
When candida causes problems under breasts or other areas where skin folds create a warm moist environment for yeast to grow, the area can be treated with a topical cream and usually clear up in a short time.
In rare cases, the yeast infection may spread throughout the body. Even common mouth and vaginal yeast infections can cause critical illnesses in people with weakened immune systems. Always consult a physician regarding yeast infections that don’t respond to treatment.
Nearly every time my friend takes an antibiotic, she ends up with a yeast infection. But that’s no surprise since that is one of the leading causes of vaginal yeast infections. That is because while antibiotics are taken to kill bad bacteria that are making us ill, it also kills good bacteria that help to keep yeast infections at bay. The warm, moist cocoon known as the vagina is the ideal host for candida to grow and with a reduction in bacteria to fight it off, it wreaks havoc until treatment is rendered.
Devices such as catheters also open the body to yeast infections. People with weakened immune systems, those undergoing cancer treatments or surgery patients are susceptible to yeast infections.
Eating foods that contain probiotics can help to slow the growth of yeast and promote good bacteria in the digestive track. Plain yogurt with probiotics is an excellent choice and will help to balance your system.
If you have a weakened immune system, contact your doctor at the first sign of yeast infection. Don’t try to treat it with over the counter medicines if the yeast infection is oral or vaginal. Other places such as under arms or breasts or stomach can be treated with anti fungal cream. If you find that the infection is not responding to the treatment, contact your doctor.
If vaginal discharge lasts for more than a week and has a foul odor that continues, seek medical care. There are other medical conditions that could be causing the discharge and any infection lasting more than a week needs to be evaluated by a physician.
Maintain a healthy diet at all times and exercise regularly to keep your body at its healthiest and your immune system working at peak condition. My Fitness4Her Diet and 30 Minutes To A New You Exercise Program were developed specifically for women’s fitness. While yeast infections can occur easily under certain circumstances, keeping the body healthy will help to protect you against problems should a yeast infection strike.
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