What is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is a type of a fungal infection that is caused by any of the species of Candida, most commonly the Candida albicans.  A common term for a yeast infection is thrush and the medical term is Candidiasis.  The infections range from superficial, such as vaginitis and oral thrush, to systemic infections that already involve the entire systems of the body, which makes yeast infection a potentially life-threatening disease. A yeast infection that already involves the body’s system is called Candidemia. Systemic yeast infections are more common to immunosuppressed persons, such as those with AIDS, cancer and organ transplants.

What are the symptoms?

The superficial infections are those affecting the mucus membranes and skin. These cause discomfort and inflammation and are more common compared to the systemic infection. Most of the superficial yeast infections can easily be treated and result only in minimal complications such as discomforts, itching and redness. People with yeast infections whose immune system are compromised usually suffer from localized infection of the mucus membranes of the urinary bladder, genitals, pharynx, esophagus, and the gastrointestinal tract. Of all the areas affected, yeast infection is more common in the genital area and also in the corners of the mouth.

The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are severe burning, soreness, itching, and whitish-gray or whitish discharges.  In men, the symptoms include sores and red patches on the foreskin or near the head of the genitals and also severe burning or itching sensations. In some cases no symptoms may emerge until the later stages.

What causes a yeast infection?

The Candida yeasts are actually normal flora of the body. But if they multiply uncontrollably, yeast infection occurs. Also, Candida also grows rapidly in cases wherein the immune system is weak. Aside from these, the things that cause the development of yeast infection are external irritants such as douches or detergents or internal factors such as hormone imbalances.  These factors disturb the normal flora and constitute bacteria which cause the overgrowth of yeast. The use of oral contraceptives, anal sex, using lubricants that contain glycerin, hormone replacement therapy and pregnancy are also one of the risk factors. Physical conditions that are associated with yeast infection are stress, diabetes and weak immune system. If left untreated, the superficial infections such as those in the skin may enter the bloodstream and cause a systemic infection. Medications such as steroids and antibiotics can actually kill the bacteria that are needed in order to maintain safe levels of the yeast, allowing the yeast to overgrow.

How can yeast infection be prevented?

In preventing yeast infection, first you must be knowledgeable enough with what causes the development of the condition. Avoid the causes as much as possible. In preventing yeast infection to the genital areas, it is very essential to keep the area clean to prevent growth of the fungi and bacteria.  It is also important to keep the area dry because moist and wet areas are where bacteria usually grow and multiply rapidly.

Yeast infection cases are not uncommon, but the symptoms can be very frustrating. It is wise to always avoid the causes to prevent yourself from experiencing the discomforts and frustration brought about by a yeast infection.