Yeast infections are manifested by the increase of the level of yeast in the vagina most commonly caused by a fungus called candida albicans. This condition can affect all women but is more common among women who have a weaker immune system; it can also affect men. Yeast infections are recurring and while they do not have major health impacts they are very annoying and inconvenient.

Cause

The candida albicans fungus usually exists in the mouth and the vagina. Yeast infections are caused by an increase in the fungus in the vaginal area.

Women who are more susceptible to a yeast infection are those who are pregnant, who are on antibiotics, who have diabetes, or have a weakened immune system because of another disease.

Some research has shown that oral contraceptives could cause yeast infections, although this has not been conclusive.

candida-albicans

 

Symptoms

  • Itching in the vaginal area
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Pain during urination or during sexual intercourse
  • Potential inflammation in the vulva area

Medical treatment

Yeast infections can be treated by anti-fungal medication. Yeast infections will take about three days to be treated.

It can be taken orally in the form of pills or intervaginally by applying certain creams in the vaginal area. The treatment is decided depending on the strength of the infection and the preference of the patient.

However, oral pills can cause side effects such as nausea and upset stomach.

pill-tablet-vitamin-water

 

Alternative treatments

There are some natural remedies thatcan help treat yeast infections.

  • Probiotics are the friendly bacteria that can balance out the yeast and block the growth of the candida bacteria. They are present in yoghurts and can also be taken in the form of supplements.
  • Diluted tea tree oil is thought to help alleviate the symptoms of yeast infections;however, it is not widely supported by research.
  • Eat garlic as it can destroy fungus, and drink pure cranberry juice that can acidify the yeast and help reduce the symptoms.

Candida diet

This is a diet that helps sufferer from yeast infections deal with the issue at its roots, by reducing the amount of yeast in the body.

Its primary premise is eliminating foods that increase yeast concentration in the body such as breads, sugars, alcohol, cheeses and chocolates as well as comfort food high in sugars and fats.

It recommends getting a diet that is focused on fruits and healthy unprocessed foods.

healthy-diet-salad

 

Tips to avoid symptoms of yeast infections

  • Only use water to wash your vagina and avoid douching, using perfumed soaps, shower gels and deodorants.
  • Avoid using latex condoms, spermicides, and lubricants.
  • Wearing cotton underwear is best, as much as you can try to avoid synthetic underwear and tight clothing.
  • Change your underwear after working out.

Concerns

Consult with your doctor if you have yeast infection symptoms, while:

  • You are pregnant
  • Have a sexually transmitted diseases
  • If the yeast infections recur twice within a year
  • If you found that the antifungal medication to be ineffective or if you had a bad reaction to a medication

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