Yeast is essentially a fungus, and fungus is naturally occurring in our bodies. The problem occurs when there is an overgrowth of a particular type of a yeast called candida.
Candidiasis (the result of excess candida) can form in moist areas of your body; most commonly in the mouth and vagina. In the mouth it is referred to as thrush, and in the vagina it is referred to as a yeast infection.
Thrush is most likely to occur in people with weak immune systems (e.g. elderly, newborns, patients of HIV). If affected by thrush, symptoms can include a sore throat, trouble swallowing, and presence of a white patchy substance on the tongue. Efforts to counter thrush can include the use of anti-bacterial mouth wash. In more severe cases medication may be required. Inhaled steroids can usually be effective.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
You have to understand that a healthy vagina already contains candida. However, candida is kept in check by the presence of bacteria. An infection occurs when balance is disrupted, and candida begins to multiply uncontrollably. Yeast infection is not a serious medical condition per say, but it is important to take counter measures before it gets out of control.
Causes
A number of factors can contribute to an imbalance of candida.
- Taking antibiotics decreases the amount of bacteria in our bodies, and can cause an imbalance.
- The unusual hormone levels (namely estrogen) associated with pregnancy can cause an imbalance.
- Hormone therapy alters the normal function of our bodies, and can cause an imbalance.
- A particular illness which weakens your immune system also leaves a higher chance of getting yeast infection.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include itchiness and soreness in the vagina. More severe cases can also have symptoms of intense burning and pain. In unusual cases the vagina can also release white and lumpy liquids. You are more likely to experience symptoms of yeast infection in the week prior to your menstrual period.
Treatment
If it is your first time experiencing the above symptoms then do not attempt to diagnose the problem yourself. Seek professional advice. It is easy to confuse the symptoms of yeast infection for something else. If you are pregnant and experiencing these symptoms, then definitely go see a doctor.
On the other hand, if you have had yeast infection before and are familiar with the symptoms you can treat it yourself. The main goal of treatment should be to decrease the fungus in your vagina and bring it back to normal levels. The best way to do this is with anti-fungal creams or tablets, which you can buy over the counter.
Most cases of yeast infection are not very serious, and the effects should clear up without the need of external substances.
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