Symptoms of Yeast Infections

Yeast infections results from an overgrowth of a fungus – Candida albicans – that is commonly found in the gut flora, genito-urinary tract, and on the skin of healthy children and adults.  Yeast doesn’t usually cause problems, since natural bacteria in the body help to keep it in check.  Sometimes, this natural balance is upset, resulting in yeast infections.

There are a few different factors that can cause yeast infections.  One cause of yeast infections is an upset in the balance of certain gut bacteria that normally keep yeast in check.  This usually results from broad spectrum antibiotics that kill good gut flora along with bad.  Yeast infections are also common in people with compromised immune systems.  Vaginal yeast infections are common because yeast thrives in a warm, moist environment.

In nearly all cases, yeast infections are related to an immune system that is not functioning at an optimum level.  Sometimes medications like antibiotics compromise immune function, as do illness, stress, and poor diet.  A diet that is high in sugar and refined carbohydrates and low in nutritional value can have a doubly powerful effect in facilitating yeast overgrowth.  This is because not only does this type of diet lead to decreased immune function, but Candida actually feeds on simple carbohydrates, especially sugar.

Symptoms of yeast infections vary depending on the part of the body affected.  In some cases, latent yeast infections may not cause obvious visible symptoms, but instead might result in an overall feeling of fatigue and a general sense of feeling muddled or “spaced out.”  There is some controversy about whether chronic yeast infections are a real problem, but it’s becoming more widely accepted that yeast or toxins produced by it can enter the bloodstream causing lethargy and an overall generalized feeling of being unwell.  Muscle weakness, aches, and pains are also a typical part of this syndrome.

Acute yeast infections in various parts of the body usually have visible symptoms, but sometimes even acute infection might only have secondary symptoms.  For example, not all women have discharge that accompanies a yeast infection; some experience itching and burning as the primary symptom.

Vaginal yeast infections are generally characterized by a copious, white, foul-smelling discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese and are typically accompanied by itching and irritation of the vaginal tissues.  Women with vaginal yeast infections can transmit the yeast to a male partner.  Yeast from the genital tract can also enter the urinary tract causing frequent or painful urination and recurrent bladder infections.

Gastrointestinal symptoms of yeast infections include diarrhea, loose stools, stomach ache, and abdominal cramping.  These  often results from an overgrowth of Candida following antibiotic treatment or from poor diet.

People with asthma and allergy may be more prone to developing symptoms of yeast infection.  This may be because asthma and allergy are also related to compromised immune function.  Ear, nose, and eye symptoms of yeast infections include sore throat and congestion, and other symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis.  Symptoms of oral thrush, especially common in breastfeeding mothers and babies, include sore mouth, sore and red nipples, and a white, cheesy coating on the tongue and inside the cheeks.