Thrush Yeast Infection

Yeast Infection Knowledge - The Truth Behind Your Yeast Infection

2010-03-07T11:36:00.000-08:00

Educating yourself about your candida infection is the first and most important step in curing this painful, annoying and relatively dangerous chronic condition and taking responsibility over your health and well-being.

Although yeast infection (known by the names of Candida, Monilia or Thrush) is in fact a very common condition, (as three out of four women develop it at some point in their lifetimes), it is little discussed. Most people regard candida infection as a ‘on the surface’ problem that should be treated with creams and antibiotics whereas few are aware of its potentially risky complications.

Yeast Infection is first and foremost an internal problem. Like most chronic conditions, there is never one cause for this fungal problem and thus yeast infection cannot be permanently eliminated using medications or creams that work superficially and fail to tackle the root factors that trigger the formation of candida infection in the first place.

The problem is that the majority of yeast infection sufferers choose to leave it in the hands of others: Doctors, pharmacists, drug and over the counter industries. They willingly choose NOT to take responsibility for their candida condition, for their health and for their own body.

If you suffer from yeast infection then you must have experienced the confusion stemmed from conflicting advice and from information overload. Honest information about vaginal yeast infection or any other type of candida infection is harder to come by than ever before, and nearly everyone has been misled at one time or another. I know I have. I wasted literally thousands of dollars on candida treatment programs that didn’t “work out” and anti-yeast infection products that didn’t do anything.

Furthermore, to successfully navigate through today’s jungle of misleading, dishonest and conflicting information, you're going to have to become a very shrewd and discriminating consumer.

There are in fact, alternative, cheap, safe, natural and holistic health practices and methods necessary to permanently eliminate the symptoms of this disease and cure the root internal cause of yeast infection regardless of its type, location, or level of severity.

To effectively overcome candida infection, you need to be aware of the real cause of yeast infection and be able to identify its symptoms. You need to know how to self-test and diagnose your candida condition, learn about the dietary principals needed to maintain a candida free environment and about the complimentary treatments that will help you battle against the negative effects and complications of your yeast infection.

By educating yourself about the steps you need to take in order to deal with your candida infection condition and help your body heal itself and control the fungal overgrowth from the inside out you can and will eliminate the pain, annoyance, humiliation and frustration associated with this condition and feel more in control. Additionally, as a side benefits you’ll feel more energized, healthier and vibrant. You will enjoy improved digestion, enhanced vision, and healthier hair, skin and nails.

Knowledge is power. Embrace it. Share it and apply it and you will be yeast infection free.

This article is based on the book, "Natural Cure For Yeast Infection" by Sarah Summer. Sarah is an author, researcher, nutritionist and health consultant who dedicated her life to creating the ultimate holistic yeast infection solution guaranteed to permanently cure the root of candida and dramatically improve the overall quality of your life, naturally, without the use prescription medication and without any side effects. Learn more by visiting her website:

Thrush Yeast Infection - Description, Causes and Treatment

2009-11-17T12:58:00.000-08:00

Thrush Infections, Yeast Infections?
This article discusses the symptoms, dangers, and related health problems of yeast infections, sometimes known as thrush or thrush infection or Candida and should give you some helpful yeast infection knowledge.

It also discusses the various causes and treatments available for this health problem.

Finally, it mentions the importance of knowing this information about these conditions relative to the problem's prevention 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 or 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.

Thrush Yeast Infection Treatment

2009-11-03T09:10:00.000-08:00

Thrush Yeast Infection Treatment

With the correct yeast infection knowledge, you should be able to control, if not cure, this potentially debilitating disease. Chronic sufferers should take note of this information.

In the past, treatment for thrush or yeast infections with an antifungal medication typically would begin only after a diagnosis from a health care professional.

Today, many over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications are available, including creams, ointments, suppositories or tablets.

These medications include:

    * butoconazole (Femstat 3)
    * terconazole (Terazol)
    * tioconazole (Monistat-1, Vagistat-1)
    * miconazole (Monistat 7)
    * clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin 3)

If you've never had a yeast infection before, or if you have fever, abdominal pain, foul-smelling discharge, are diabetic, HIV-positive, pregnant or nursing, you should be seen by your health care professional. Never use an OTC anti-yeast product when you are pregnant except with your health care professional's advice.

However, in general, it's acceptable to use OTC antifungal medication to treat your symptoms if you've had a yeast infection diagnosed by a health care professional before and you are now experiencing the same symptoms. The only difference between the various OTC medications now available is the length of treatment and cost. The shorter course of treatment is more convenient but often more expensive.

If you take medication to treat a yeast infection — OTC medication or prescription medication — be sure to take the full course of the prescription. Don't cut it short, even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated. Consult your health care professional if your symptoms fail to respond to OTC remedies or recur shortly after clearing up.

Yeast Infection Treatment (cont'd)

Studies find about a 50 percent error rate in self-diagnosis of yeast infections. Thus, if you think that you have a yeast infection, there's a one in two chance you're wrong. But the medicines are harmless and the cost of a trial course is undoubtedly cheaper than a doctor visit. If your symptoms are strongly suggestive of a yeast infection, it's probably worth trying one of the over-the-counter medicines. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours after starting the medicine, however, or if they return promptly, see your health care provider.

Side effects of these medications are minimal but may include allergic reaction (shortness of breath, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, face, or tongue or hives) in rare cases, in which you should stop using them and seek emergency medical treatment. More common side effects are burning, itching, irritation of the skin and an increased need to urinate.

Also, keep in mind that antifungal medications may damage a condom or diaphragm, rendering both ineffective against pregnancy and condoms ineffective against sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, you can use a sanitary napkin or pad while using these medications, but do not use a tampon.

If you see a health care professional, he or she may prescribe a single dose of oral fluconazole (Diflucan) or a generic equivalent, although this treatment is not recommended during pregnancy. Also, do not take fluconazole if you are taking cisapride (Propulsid) because this drug combination could cause serious, even fatal, heart problems. In rare cases, fluconazole has also caused severe skin rash, sometimes resulting in death. Again, notify your health care professional immediately if you develop a rash while taking fluconazole. Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur.

These include:

    * diarrhea
    * headache
    * dizziness
    * fatigue
    * itching

Notify your healthcare professional if you are taking the prescription blood thinning medicine warfarin - there have been reported drug interactions between this anticoagulant medication and topical miconazole nitrate products (such as Monistat 7) and oral fluconazole (Diflucan). Symptoms include excessive bleeding and bruising.

If you don't treat a yeast infection, it may go away by itself and soaking in plain water can help. But you also may develop a more severe pelvic infection. In a woman who does not have adequate immune system function (a woman with HIV/AIDS, for example), the yeast infection could enter the bloodstream and cause an aggressive infection involving multiple organ systems in the body, although it is uncommon. Immediate hospitalization and treatment with intravenous medications would then be necessary.

Yeast Infection Treatment (cont'd)

Treatment of sexual partners is not typically recommended; it's not clear if yeast infections are transmitted sexually. However, if a male sex partner does show symptoms of Candida balanitis — redness, irritation and/or itching at the tip of the penis — he may need to be treated with an antifungal cream or ointment.

For best results, it's advisable not to have vaginal intercourse while using medications to treat a yeast infection, as your body needs a chance to completely heal and you don't want to take the chance of transmitting the infection to your partner.

Medications cure 80 to 90 percent of vaginal yeast infections within two weeks or less, often within a few days.

Some women prefer home remedies to antifungal medication. Yogurt containing lactobacillus cultures, applied with an applicator or as a douche, is one such treatment. The stamp, "contains live cultures," on the yogurt container indicates that it contains lactobacillus cultures. Drinking cranberry juice may also help prevent the occurrence of yeast infections and aid in their treatment.

Medical experts are still trying to determine the most effective way to treat recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). Currently, most health care professionals treat RVVC with two weeks of intensive medication, followed by up to six months of a lower maintenance dose. Your health care professional may recommend treating your partner if you experience RVVC, since researchers are not clear what causes RVVC.

Remember, don't douche because douching alters the normal bacterial balance in the vagina.

If you're still troubled with yeast infections then try this yeast infection cure to solve your problem.

Thrush Yeast Infection Facts

2009-10-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

Thrush Yeast Infection Knowledge and some facts to ponder.

Here are some facts about thrush yeast infections that you might find interesting to know. Although men, and children, get yeast infections they are much more common in women and are generally caused by an imbalance between the candida fungus (yeast) and the bacteria that keeps it under control. This imbalance can be caused by many things.

1. During a lifetime, 75 percent of all women are likely to have at least one yeast infection, and up to 45 percent have two or more.

2. Vaginal yeast infections are the second most common cause of cases of abnormal vaginal discharge in the United States (the first is bacterial vaginosis).

3. Yeast infections are quite common during pregnancy, perhaps due to a chemical change in the vaginal environment — essentially there is more sugar in the vaginal secretions on which the yeast feed.

4. About 5 percent of women with vaginal yeast infections develop recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC), which is defined as four or more symptomatic vaginal yeast infections in a one-year period. Most women with RVVC have no underlying medical illness that would predispose them to recurrent Candida infections.

5. A woman's vagina normally produces a discharge that is usually described as clear or slightly cloudy, non-irritating and odor-free. During the normal menstrual cycle, the amount and consistency of discharge may vary.

6. Do not douche. Douching disrupts the balance of normal bacteria in the vagina.

7. Vaginal yeast infections can clear up without treatment. However, there is a small chance that if you don't treat a yeast infection, you may develop a more severe pelvic infection.

8. Treatment of sexual partners is usually not recommended. It is not clear if vaginal yeast infections are transmitted sexually. However, if a male sex partner does show symptoms of Candida balanitis — redness, irritation and/or itching at the tip of the penis — he may need to be treated with an antifungal cream or ointment.

9. Medications cure 80 to 90 percent of vaginal yeast infections within two weeks or less, often within a few days.

10. Take antibiotics only when prescribed by your health care professional and never take them for longer than your doctor directs. In addition to destroying bacteria that cause illness, antibiotics kill off the "good" bacteria that normally live in the vagina. Without the normal lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina, yeast cells can take over and grow out of control.

Get rid of your yeast (thrush) infection permanently.

Thrush Yeast Infection Lifestyle Tips

2009-10-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Here is some useful knowledge about thrush yeast infections that everyone should know, not just those that suffer from the condition.

1. Antibiotic Use Promotes Yeast Infection
If you need to take antibiotics, you may wind up with a yeast infection. The use of antibiotics, particularly tetracycline, will frequently tip the balance among the normal microorganisms of the vagina, allowing harmful bacteria to dominate vaginal flora. Antibiotics suppress the growth of protective vaginal bacteria, which normally have an antifungal effect. Before rushing to the drug store for an over-the-counter treatment, it's wise to consult your health care professional. Many self-diagnosed yeast infections turn out to be other vaginal problems.

2. How to Avoid a Yeast Infection
Here are some simple steps you can take that may help you avoid yeast infections. Don't douche or use feminine hygiene sprays, bubble bath, or sanitary pads or tampons that contain deodorant. These items seem to affect the balance of acidity of the vagina, which can lead to an infection. Wearing cotton panties, avoiding tight-fitting clothing and wiping from front to back after using the toilet can help you avoid yeast infections. Since the microorganisms responsible for yeast infections thrive in warm, moist environments, be sure to dry your genital area well after bathing and before getting dressed.

3. Doctors May Fall Short in Treating Yeast Infections
Women who get recurrent yeast infections may in fact be battling the same bug they started out with. Researchers evaluated treatment of 47 women with yeast infections and found that 22 had repeat infections. Further analysis revealed that for most of them, the original infection had never been treated effectively. Ask your health care professional about a longer course of anitifungal therapy when yeast infection first occurs to ensure that the infection is eradicated. You should also be sure to complete the full course of the medication, even after symptoms disappear.

4. Birth Control Could Be the Culprit
Researchers believe that certain methods of birth control may be to blame for recurrent yeast infections. Spermicidal jellies and creams increase a woman's susceptibility to infection by altering vaginal flora, allowing candida (microorganisms that cause yeast infections) to take firmer hold. Oral contraceptives that are high in estrogen trigger hormone receptors in candida cells, increasing fungal nourishment and growth. Vaginal sponges and intrauterine devices (IUDs) may also make you more prone to infection, and diaphragms are thought to promote colonization of candida.

5. Women on Warfarin Beware
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is advising women who take the prescription blood-thinner warfarin to consult their health care professional or pharmacist before taking an over-the-counter medicine to treat vaginal yeast infections. Miconazole, the active ingredient in many nonprescription yeast infection treatments, has caused abnormal blood clotting in women who also take warfarin. One woman developed bruises, bleeding gums and a nosebleed, prompting the FDA to issue a formal warning. If you need to use both products simultaneously, make sure your health care professional monitors you carefully.

Here is some information on a safe way to cure a yeast infection.

Yeast Infection Self Medication - Should You

2009-07-20T10:11:00.001-07:00

A yeast infection can be a nasty animal. And you may be in a hurry to get “instant relief”! Please read this whole article before you make any decisions.

Are you sure that it is yeast infection?

It's important to have the right yeast or thrush infection knowledge, you have to be sure. I've said it before, and I will say it again, there are some very serious sexual diseases that have the same symptoms as yeast infections. Do not rely on a friend’s advice when it comes to your health. If you are not sure, a trip to the doctor may be in order. This is especially important if you are pregnant, or even if you just think that you may be pregnant.

What types of medications are available for yeast infection?

There are so many kinds that I could not possibly cover them all. There are antifungal medications that can be inserted directly into the vagina as suppositories, ointments, creams, or even tablets. There are also some that are rubbed on the affected area. Most medications do not require a prescription. They can be purchased online or at your local drug store. There are also some home remedies that people claim do wonders.

Will these medications cure my yeast infection?

All people are different as all yeast infections are different. You may have a very mild case, treat it with an over the counter medication, such as Monistat, and it may go away forever. But it is much more likely that you will get temporary relief. And then you may have a yeast infection again. Let’s remember that a yeast infection is a sign from your body telling you that it is out of balance. If you treat your yeast infection and it comes back, you may need a more intense permanant treatment. We recommend Linda Allen’s Yeast Infection No More, a natural holistic approach to a permanant cure.

What can I expect if I use over the counter medications for yeast infection?

You can expect some leakage. You should lie down when using it and stay down for a short while. Then you should wear a light pad until you feel that the leakage is over. This will protect your clothing. Make sure that you use scent free and light pads. Depending upon the product you should see relief within 3 days and a cure within 7 days. If this does not happen, or if you have a reaction to the product, a trip to your doctor may be in order.

I hope that I have answered some questions that you may have had about yeast infection medications. You know your body better than anyone and you may know what is best for you. Please do not take chances with your health. If in doubt, see the doctor.

Tell Me About Yeast Infections

2009-03-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

Vaginal Yeast Infections

What is a vaginal yeast infection (Candidiasis)?

Vaginal yeast infections are common, around 75% of women will have at least one vaginal yeast infection during their lifetime. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast (Candida) that may normally live in the vagina. Your doctor may call this infection “monilia” or “candidiasis.” It is also found naturally occurring in your intestinal tracts.

Some women may have a yeast infection on the skin outside the vagina (vulva) at the same time they have a vaginal infection.

How can I tell that I have a vaginal yeast infection?

When you have a vaginal yeast infection, you may have one or more of the following symptoms:
* vaginal itching
* discharge that may be thick, white, and lumpy like cottage cheese
* vaginal soreness, irritation, or burning
* rash or redness on the skin outside the vagina (vulva)
* burning on urination
* painful vaginal intercourse (sex)

Note: Vaginal yeast infections do not cause fever, abdominal pain, or a foul-smelling vaginal
discharge. If you have these symptoms, you should call your doctor right away.

Unless you know for certain that you have a vaginal yeast infection, check with your health care professional. The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are remarkably similar to other, far more dangerous, diseases. Some sexually transmitted diseases (STD's), for instance, show similar symptoms to yeast infections.

Who can get a vaginal yeast infection?

You can get a vaginal yeast infection at any age. It is most common during the childbearing years. Women who are pregnant or diabetic, taking antibiotics, birth control pills or steroids, or who have a weakened immune system are more likely to get repeated yeast infections that may not clear up easily.

This is where all the yeast infection knowledge you can find will come in useful. Some medical conditions that weaken the body’s immune system make yeast infections more likely. One of the most serious of these conditions is infection with the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV - the virus that causes AIDS). The HIV virus causes the body to be more likely to get infections, including vaginal yeast infections. If you may have been exposed to HIV and get repeated vaginal yeast infections, you should see your health care professional.

Why do women get repeated vaginal yeast infections?

Women may get repeated vaginal yeast infections for the following reasons:
* hormonal changes occurring a few days before the monthly period
* use of antibiotics
* use of some birth control pills
* use of spermicides (eg. condoms can have a spermicidal coating)
* pregnancy
* diabetes (“sugar” or “high blood sugar”)
* clothing - wearing many tight layers or moist clothing in the genital area
* weakened immune system - some drugs (such as chemotherapy or steroids) and medical conditions can weaken the body’s normal ability to fight infection. (See HIV above.)

How can I help prevent repeated vaginal yeast infections?

To lower your chances of getting another yeast infection:
* Talk with your doctor about any drugs you are now taking. You are more likely to get a vaginal yeast infection if you are taking certain drugs, such as antibiotics, steroids, or birth control pills.
* Try to keep the genital area cool and dry. Yeast grow well in warm, moist areas.
* Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes.
* Change out of damp clothes or a wet bathing suit as soon as possible.
* If you use pads when you are not having a menstrual period, change the pads often.
* Use spermicide free condoms.
or, read this post yeast infection cure.

Basics of Yeast Infections

2009-03-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

The Basics About Your Yeast Infection

Here is some information about yeast infections, also called thrush infections, fungal infections and Candida. They are very common infections, especially in women, and are usually easily treated. They are normally caused by an overgrowth of a yeast that naturally lives in the body.

Candida is always present in the vagina, mouth and gastrointestinal tract in small amounts, and is usually kept under control by the body's own resistance and bacteria along with other beneficial organisms. However, when an imbalance occurs, yeast can multiply out of control and become a yeast infection.

Women and Yeast Infections

Most women, around three quarters of all women, will have a yeast infection at some time. Some will either overcome their infection by their immune system, or medication will cure it. Others will have a harder time clearing the infection and will most likely find that it recurs. It often goes hand in hand with a woman's menstrual cycle.

Common Causes of Yeast Infections

While vaginal yeast infections are very common and usually cause a vaginal discharge, the biggest cause of vaginal discharge is bacterial vaginosis, so don't rely on only a discharge to diagnose a yeast infection, it can have very similar symptoms and is a common cause of mis-diagnosis among women. Women tend to be more susceptible to vaginal yeast infections if they are pregnant or their bodies are under stress due to poor diet, illness, diabetes and when they are taking antibiotics.

Hormone Levels and Yeast Infections

Changing hormone levels in a woman's body is also known to cause yeast infections in some women, where they are more common around the time of a menstrual period. Usually, the most severe symptoms occur before the onset of a woman's period when more sugar is available. During and after the flow, symptoms are likely to subside.

Clothing and Yeast Infections

Wearing tight clothing or synthetic clothing that doesn’t allow enough air to circulate also promotes and encourages yeast infections.

Men and Yeast Infections

Men also get yeast infections, especially around the genitals, penis and anus areas, which can be difficult to distinguish from another type of fungal infection that is common in some men, jock rot. Athletes foot and nail infections are other examples of common yeast infections. There are some sexually transmitted diseases whose symptoms can be easily confused with a yeast infection. These STD's are more dangerous, it is therefore better to get a diagnosis from a health professional. This is also true for women, so, be careful.

Medication and Yeast Infections

It is fairly easy to get medication for treating yeast infections these days, over the counter treatments are available from any drug store. This leads to a lot of people self medicating. Remember, it is important to be sure that you have a yeast infection when you self medicate as the symptoms can be mistaken for other, more dangerous diseases.

Vaginal Yeast Infection Information

2009-03-06T10:32:00.000-08:00

Information About Yeast Infections

What exactly is a vaginal yeast infection (Candidiasis)?

Knowledge of yeast infections and how they work should help you, at least, alleviate the symptoms. A vaginal yeast infection is a very common complaint caused by yeast (Candida) that normally lives in the vagina. Under certain conditions, the growth of this yeast can get out of control and become an overgrowth, in other words, a yeast infection. Medical practitioners may call this infection “monilia” or candidiasis” or even refer to it as a "fungal infection." Some women may have a yeast infection on the skin outside the vagina (vulva) at the same time they have a vaginal infection. See yeast infection basics.

What age can get a vaginal yeast infection?

You can get a vaginal yeast infection at any age. It is more common in some age ranges, but anyone can get one. For instance it is most common during the childbearing years. Also, women who are pregnant, diabetic, or have a lowered immune system are more prone to getting yeast infections. Medication and drugs like antibiotics, birth control pills or steroids are known to increase the incidence as well.

What are the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection?

When you have a vaginal yeast infection, you may have one or more of the following symptoms:

* vaginal itching

* discharge that may be thick, white, and lumpy like cottage cheese

* vaginal soreness, irritation, or burning

* rash or redness on the skin outside the vagina (vulva)

* burning on urination

* painful vaginal intercourse (sex)
Note: Vaginal yeast infections do not cause fever, abdominal pain, or a foul-smelling vaginal
discharge (doesn't smell like bread). If you have these symptoms, you should call your doctor right away.

Why do vaginal yeast infections recur?

Women may get repeated vaginal yeast infections that may not clear up easily with proper treatment. Listed below are some of the causes of recurring yeast infections:

* hormonal changes, can be natural causes eg. monthly period.

* antibiotics.

* certain birth control pills are believed to cause yeast infections.

* diabetes, it is believed that varying sugar levels in the blood can have an effect.

* clothing - wearing tight clothing, especially with man-made fibers like nylon, or moist clothing in the genital area.

* weakened immune system - some drugs (such as chemotherapy or steroids) and medical conditions can weaken the body’s normal ability to fight infection. One of the most serious of these conditions is infection with the human immuno- deficiency virus (HIV- the virus that causes AIDS). Infection with HIV causes the person to be more likely to get infections, including vaginal yeast infections.

How can I help prevent yeast infections from recurring?

To improve your chances of not getting another yeast infection:

* Talk it over with your doctor about any medication you are now taking. You are more likely to get a vaginal yeast infection if you are taking certain drugs, such as antibiotics, steroids, or birth control pills.

* Try to keep the genital area from getting too warm and moist. Yeast loves those conditions and grow well in warm, moist areas. The following suggestions may be helpful:
(1) Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes, avoid synthetic materials.
(2) Change out of damp clothes or a wet bathing suit as soon as possible.
(3) If you use minipads when you are not having a menstrual period, change them often.

You can also read this post, yeast infection cure.

Can Penile Yeast Infections Be Cured

2009-03-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

Penile Yeast Infections

Just because some men are asking "Can penile yeast infections be cured?" Means that it can be a problem and a cure is not something that can be taken for granted. Finding out all you can, and being armed with all the yeast infection knowledge you can get will help you fight this disease.

Yes. Under normal circumstances penile yeast infections are relatively mild and respond well to treatment. But there are occasions when yeast infections prove stubborn to treatment, and men are not spared from this problem any more than women are. See basics of yeast infections.

Penile Yeast Infection Diagnosis

In the first instance it is important to get the proper diagnosis, penile yeast infection symptoms can be remarkably similar to other diseases which are potentially more dangerous.

For example, and depending on the symptoms present, some sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) appear almost identical to a yeast infection, so be careful and if you are in any doubt at all, or if it is your first yeast infection, then seek medical advice.

One strange anomaly is that not all men have any recognizable symptoms at all. They can carry on with daily lives and be totally unaware that they have a penile yeast infection. This can be a problem with a sexually active couple, as vaginal yeast infections are a common complaint among women, the man can be the cause without knowing it. For this reason, medical advice very often is to treat both partners when a yeast infection keeps recurring.

Penile Yeast Infection Symptoms

Penile yeast infection symptoms normally start with an itch, a particularly irritating itch that affects the foreskin and head of the penis. The next progression is a red rash and can be accompanied with inflammation. Ulcer like spots can then appear on the penis head and the foreskin can become dry and flaky. A creamy discharge is also possible as is pain while urinating. Learn how to cure it here.

There have been reports of a whole catalog of other symptoms, some of which include headaches, irritability, memory loss, eyesight getting worse, depression and many, many more.

The truth is that, even if these other symptoms are connected with yeast infections, it is not helpful in any way to consider them. These symptoms can be caused by almost anything, and they have no bearing on diagnosing yeast infections. If you have these symptoms and, when you cure your yeast infection, they disappear, excellent, just don't confuse things, there is no benefit to be gained.

Penile Yeast Infection Causes

A yeast infection is simply an overgrowth of yeast. Yeast naturally occurs in our bodies, it is in our gastrointestinal tract, digestive tract, on our skin. Yeast is all around us, it's even in the air. Yeast becomes a problem only when it gets out of control and turns into an overgrowth, an infection.

Yeast flourishes in warm moist areas of our bodies, and vaginal yeast infections are common in women. Unprotected sex can pass this onto men.

Under normal circumstance our bodies take care of this quite naturally and overgrowths of yeast don't come to anything, but sometimes our systems are out of balance and the bacteria that would normally control the yeast is depleted in some way and a yeast infection is the result.

The spermicide in some condoms have been known to cause yeast infections in both men and women, so even protected sex can actually be a cause.

Diabetes, a lowered immune system and the use of antibiotics and steroids are also known to encourage yeast infections in both sexes.

A bad diet, especially one high in sugar content, can also cause, or prolong yeast infections.

Penile Yeast Infection Treatments

There are 'over the counter' treatments, principally creams, that are usually very effective. These contain drugs, however, and can have side effects. Depending on the severity of the yeast infection, your doctor may prescribe oral medication taken over a specified period of time. There is also a variety of natural remedies that are readily available.

The point is, if you have symptoms that last more than a day or two, then do something about it. Penile yeast infections can escalate and the area infected can grow in size, it can also spread quite rapidly to other areas of your body and become much more difficult to treat, so be careful and seek medical advice sooner rather than later.

So, can penile yeast infections be cured? Yes, but bear in mind all that you have just read and err on the safe side. Learn how to cure it here.

Men and Yeast Infections

2009-03-04T12:56:00.000-08:00

Do Men Get Yeast Infections?
The short answer is ...yes! Although it is more common for women to get yeast infections, men get them as well. Whenever we think of yeast infections, most people think of vaginal yeast infections, the most common form among women. However, yeast infections do occur in men as penile yeast infections.

If you suffer from yeast infections, especially recurring ones, then yeast infection knowledge is a must. Other infections, more normally known as fungal infections, like athletes foot and nail infections, are in fact also yeast infections. Yeast enjoys warm moist places, and, although they generally start off in these places, they can spread outwards from them.

Thrush, yeast infections in the mouth, can also occur in either sex, as can anal yeast infections. See men yeast infection basics.

Men can pick up yeast infections from their partners during sex, but they may show no symptoms and not even be aware that they have one. On the other hand, they may get much the same discomfort and symptoms that their partner gets. One of the biggest complaints is the itch which can be accompanied with a rash, and yes, there can also be a whitish discharge as well, although this is rarer.

These symptoms in a man can be very much like the symptoms from other diseases, especially some sexually transmitted diseases. It is therefore important for men to get professional medical advice on their yeast infection and make sure that the diagnosis is correct.

It can be important that when a woman is treating her yeast infection, that her partner should also be treated, even if there are no symptoms. This helps to avoid them passing the same yeast infection back and forth between each other.

There are 'over the counter' remedies and prescription drugs, which include oral, suppositories, and topical treatments. Their effectiveness varies dramatically, some can be cured, but most people find that their yeast infection recurs, and at fairly regular intervals.

Yeast infections are caused by an imbalance within the body. Normally, yeast, which is usually present in all of us, is kept under control by the presence of certain bacteria. When this bacteria is depleted, a yeast overgrowth is the result.

This lack of bacteria can be caused by a variety of things, prolonged use of antibiotics, for example, can be a common cause of yeast infections because antibiotics kill the good bacteria as well as the bad. Steroids and diseases like diabetes have also been shown to encourage yeast infections, as have natural hormonal changes in the body.

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Yeast Infections - What Are They

2009-03-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Yeast infections are a common ailment that affect around 70% of us. Female, male, old and young, no-one is spared, we are all capable of acquiring this disease. Although, strictly speaking, a yeast infection is neither a disease nor an infection. It is an overgrowth of yeast that naturally occurs in our bodies, and normally kept under control by bacteria. Knowing all about yeast infections is crucial if you suffer from one.

Candida Albicans, the most common form of yeast infection, is also known as Candidiasis, thrush, or fungal infection andthey are responsible for infections that range from superficial, such as oral thrush and vaginitis to systemic, and potentially life-threatening, which are also referred to as candidemia and are normally associated with people who have a severely compromised immune system, such as sufferers of cancer and AIDS. See yeast infections explained.

Antibiotics and steroid use are the most common reason for yeast overgrowths. Antibiotics kill the bacteria which would otherwise help maintain Candida at safe levels.

Diabetes is also liked with an increased incidence of yeast infections.

Another common cause is to have the infection passed on from someone else. It is quite contagious especially if an open wound is involved, and it can be passed on during sexual interaction.

Yeast infections can prove to be difficult and stubborn to treat. It is most important to have your infection diagnosed as the symptoms can be confused with other illnesses.

There are 'over the counter' remedies from all drugstores or your doctor may prescribe topical or oral medication for you. One of the biggest problems of these methods of treating yeast infections, is that the yeast can become tolerant of the drugs.

Even though these medicines do a reasonably good job of reducing the amount of yeast that is in our body, whenever they destroy the yeast, they leave behind some that are more resilient. Then, when the yeast infection recurs, because we did not bring our bacteria back into balance, it can more severe than the first time.

It is then possible that we end up fighting yeast infections regularly, and then the yeast infection can become systemic.

Penile and vaginal yeast infections are the most common among men and women respectively, and, normally, are easily treated, but sometimes a husband and wife can pass the yeast infection back and forth between them.

If you think that you or your partner has a yeast infection, it is important to seek treatment and not just hope that it will go away of it's own accord. Find out how to cure your yeast infection.

Treating Yeast Infections

2009-03-02T12:43:00.000-08:00

Candida Albicans is a yeast infection sometimes known as Thrush, and is simply an overgrowth of yeast which naturally occurs in our bodies. The yeast is normally kept under control by bacteria which is why a yeast infection can follow after taking a course of antibiotics.

Although the description is simple, treating yeast infections can be troublesome to say the least. But the more yeast infection knowledge you have the better chance you'll have of saying goodbye to it for good.

It can range from chronic, which can be very debilitating, to very mild where you don't even know that you have it.

The first thing you should do if you think that you have a yeast infection is to go to the doctor or health professional. They will verify whether you have a yeast infection or whether it is something else causing your symptoms. See explanation of yeast infections and the similarity of symptoms with other, more dangerous, diseases.

If you are experiencing intense itching in the genital (or pubic) area, and it gets worse throughout the day or night, contact your physician. If you don' t have a physician, the outpatient area of your local hospital can help with a diagnosis and can possibly also provide you with medication as needed.

Yeast infections, or Thrush if you prefer, like warm moist places and are not restricted to the vagina or penis areas. Under the arms , under the breasts and in the mouth are also common, but yeast infections can occur almost anywhere on the body.

If you have recurring Thrush yeast infections and are familiar with the very earliest signs, including itching that is not directly located in the genital region, don' t wait for the symptoms to get worse. Start your general course of treatment. If you have only been using over-the-counter medications and find the Thrush yeast infection seems to come back relatively often, ask your physician about an oral medication.

Many doctors don't recommend an oral dose of medication for yeast infections every time an infection is present, because the oral dose contains a larger amount of the active ingredient, some doctors feel their patients, actually the yeast itself, may risk developing immunity to the medication. Most recommend alternating treatments between over-the-counter and prescribed remedies. However, in cases where your menstrual period is either in process or due any day, a doctor may be more agreeable to an oral agent.

It must also be noted here that yeast infections are not only a female complaint, although women tend to get yeast infections more often than men, it is still relatively common for the male population to suffer as well. Age, makes no difference either, even young children can suffer from yeast infections.

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Treatment and Symptoms of Thrush Yeast Infection

2009-03-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

Candida Albicans

Information about yeast infections, what they are and how they materialize is important for all sufferers of this disease. Thrush, yeast infections (Candida Albicans), can range from mild (not even being aware that you have one) to chronic where it is a very debilitating, embarrassing disease that can prove to be very stubborn and difficult to cure. It has been estimated that c. 80% of us will get a yeast infection, thrush, at some time in our lives, some of us have it recurring 3 to 4 times a year EVERY year in spite of the drugs and ointments that the doctors prescribe as a treatment for yeast infections. See Candida infection basics.

The drugs tend to alleviate the symptoms for a time, but rarely provide a permanent cure. The rash (when it is visible) can weep quite profusely causing severe irritation which usually elicits a response from the sufferer along the lines of scratching or rubbing and frequent washing.

The skin, however, is delicate and cuts and abrasions only serve to aggravate the condition, some of the ointments used to treat thrush and yeast infections make the skin thinner and exacerbate the problem further even although they seem to have a temporary curative effect.

Yeast infections tend to like warm moist places, vagina, penis, under the arms, under the breasts, in the mouth but can appear anywhere and spread to anywhere, which can make the treatment of yeast infections so much harder to achieve.

The overgrowth of Candida Albicans can be very severe and has been linked to numerous other complaints, some of which include:

Painful Sex, Sexual Dysfunction, Vaginal Odor, Premature Ageing, Leaky Gut Syndrome, Vaginal Discharge, Arthritis, Painful Urination, Urinary Disorders, Depression, Mood Swings , Chronic Rashes, Tiredness, Fatigue, Irritability, Joint Pain, Swelling, PMS, Feeling Run Down, Digestive Pain, Muscle Aches, Short Attention Span, Hand Pain, Hip and Knee Pain, Headaches, Constant Migraines, Acne, Respiratory Infections, Impotence, Gas, Hypoglycemia, Menstrual Pain, Skin Lesions, Shortness of Breath, Food Allergies, Learning problems, Memory Problems, Eczema, Jumpy Legs, Blurred Vision, Brain Fog, Yeast Infections in Your Toe or Fingernails.

A truly remarkable range of symptoms. When you take this into account, a cure is something we must strive to achieve. Temporarily alleviating the symptoms of rash, seepage and itching is clearly not enough. However, not all people, thankfully, get yeast infections to this degree.

The problem is the irritation that makes us mess with the outbreak in the first place. It appears that, at least in mild cases, the infection can clear up if we can avoid making it worse. Soaps and detergents like shampoo etc. only increase the irritation because of the chemicals, perfumes, etc that they contain. Cleanliness is a big issue as yeast infections are inherently contagious, primarily where an open wound is involved.

Every chemist or drug store stocks an emollient cream or ointment, this is often the base that is used to mix drugs in for topical applications, but it is also very useful as an alternative to soap where the skin is sensitive. It is a non-irritant with cleansing and soothing properties that prove to be ideal in this situation. Washing gently, but thoroughly, with the emollient ointment and gently patting almost dry followed by, again gently, applying a thin layer of the ointment on top of the area (this last bit seems to afford some protection for the skin) keeps it clean and greatly reduces any irritation, this may have to be done 2 or 3 times a day or as necessary. This treatment for yeast infections should show a great improvement within 24 to 48 hours.

This can also be very helpful if you suffer from dry skin, soaps, shower gels, etc., only irritate a dry skin condition, and make the problem worse.

It is important to note that emollient ointments are for external application only, they are not suitable for ingestion and therefore should never be used in the mouth, furthermore, will probably cause eye irritation, so contact with eyes should be avoided.

Find out more about curing your yeast infection.