Yeast infections, affecting frequently can be quite a bothersome experience. It is essential to curb this disorder in the initial stages itself, to prevent it from leading to unwanted complications…
Yeast infection, also known as candidiasis is caused by a particular type of fungus called candida albicans. The fungus mainly attacks the moist parts in the body. The most common regions where frequent yeast infections occur are the mouth and the vagina. There are different types of yeast infections which may affect individuals of all age groups. You need to be aware of the signs and causative factors for this skin condition so that treatment becomes easier.
Recurring Yeast Infections Causes
There are many causes for recurrent yeast infections. A few known causes of yeast infections, that may recur at regular intervals, have been listed below.
- Taking certain antibiotics is known to disrupt and elevate the amount of yeast present in the body.
- Frequent douching or soaking in perfumed bubble baths can contribute to yeast infections.
- A weak immune system that has lost the ability to ‘fight’ against fungal growth can trigger yeast infection.
- High levels of glucose in the blood creates a ‘fungus friendly environment’ and is known to cause candidiasis.
- Other known factors that cause candidiasis are taking birth control pills and pregnancy (when there is an increase in the level of hormones).
Persistent Yeast Infections in Women
Women are mainly affected by vaginal yeast infection or yeast vaginitis. Vaginitis is the inflammation of the vagina and its surrounding area. The most common causes of vaginitis are use of oral contraceptive pills, using chemical douches and perfumed vaginal sprays, etc. Vaginal yeast infection can also occur due to unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.
A woman affected by vaginitis will have frequent urge to itch, especially near the genitalia, pain during sexual intercourse and urination, soreness and burning sensation. She may also experience a smelly, white vaginal discharge, that resembles cottage cheese. In order to treat candidiasis or vaginitis the doctor may recommend the use of an anti fungal creams that contains butoconazole, clotrimazole, etc. and some medications like miconazole, terconazole and nystatin. Oral medication like Diflucan can also be taken.
Frequent Candidiasis and Diabetes
According to research there is a relation between diabetes and candidiasis. People, especially women, suffering from diabetes are at a high risk of contracting yeast infections. When a person is affected by diabetes, there are high levels of glucose (or blood sugar) in his blood. This high level of glucose is favorable for the yeast to grow and flourish. Repeated yeast infections can make a diabetic prone to many other infectious diseases. Candida albicans live in certain parts of the body and remain dormant during normal body processes. When there is an abnormal increase in the glucose levels, they become active and cause yeast infections.
Frequent Yeast Infections in Children
Children are also affected by yeast infections due to many reasons. In very young children, yeast infections can be caused due to damp diapers. A child can be affected by candidiasis in the ears, mouth and genital area, that can be caused due to a diaper rash. In order to prevent yeast infections in children, they must be given a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, that will help in building a strong immunity system. Supplements that contain anti oxidants can be included in their diet. Foods that may contain mold must be avoided. In case of young children, their genital area must be kept dry and skin rashes should be treated immediately.
Symptoms of Candidiasis
If an individual has contracted yeast infection, he may show the following symptoms.
- One of the most common symptoms of candidiasis (yeast infection) is itching. Itching can occur in places where moisture can get trapped, like in the folds of skin, armpits, inner thigh region and the area around the genitals.
- When a burning sensation while urinating is experienced, it can be a symptom of yeast infection.
- Another typical symptom of yeast infection is the eruption of rashes or small, red boils on the surface of the skin, especially near the genitals.
- Noticing a white, smelly discharge from the genitals is a characteristic sign of yeast infection. Small white tufts that resemble cotton, in or around the genitals is a sign of candidiasis.
If you are suffering from yeast infections, that may recur, it is advisable to wear cotton clothes and keep your body dry and well aerated, by avoiding moisture that may aggravate fungal growth. Include yogurt in your daily diet and get in touch with a health care provider to get complete relief from this annoying skin condition. Take care!
