Basic Yeast Infection Information- An Overview
A yeast infection, clinically called Candida albicans (if it is of the vaginal type) is a common mucosal membrane infection. This type of infection can also affect the skin especially in warm moist areas such as under the breasts or in the under arm region. The organism that causes yeast infections is always around us and is commonly on and even in our bodies. The development of an over proliferation of yeast organisms is typically prevented by our immune systems and counter balancing “friendly” organisms. Any stresses or changes to the body that upset this organism balance or impares our immune system can result in a rapid growth of these yeast organisms leading to a clinical yeast condition. Getting yeast infection information and learning contributing factors for the development of Candida infections will help you to understand how to prevent and treat a yeast infection. You can take very simple measures to both prevent and treat this common condition. Although uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing they usually do not require a visit to you physician especially if you have had one diagnosed in the past and know the specific signs and symptoms.
The primary reason for yeast infection in most women is Candida albicans, which is nothing but yeast that is seen in the vaginal region. Rapid growth of bacteria also becomes one of the main causes of yeast infection, and this is medically known as candidiasis. The decreased immune system encourages the growth of bacteria and can be affected by other medical conditions, poor hygiene and stress. Change in the hormonal balance during the menstrual cycle also can contribute to the development of a yeast infection in women. During pregnancy, many women develop one or more yeast infections. The hormonal changed resulting from oral contraceptives can also be a factor in the development of this infection. A yeast infection can also be transmitted to a partner through sexual activity. Many male partners will never develop any significant symptoms which can lead to the possibility of reinfection or even a repeating cycle of infections. Another major cause for yeast infection in many women is the heavy and prolonged usage of any kind of antibiotics. Some women will always develop a yeast infection with any use of antibiotics.
Person with very high glucose level or diabetic patients are highly affected with yeast infection, and this infection is caused by the uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Studies have revealed that antibiotics can suppress the good bacteria that control the yeast infection, and this leads to the rapid multiplication of yeast. Other conditions that indirectly cause the yeast infection are hot and humid weather, tight fitting clothing such as pantyhose and tight fitting jeans, and dietary changes. Poor eating habits seem to make some people much more prone to getting yeast infections. In fact there are yeast treatment cookbooks that can provide recipes, dietary tips and other yeast infection information for a yeast free body. A common issue for many women is not properly cleaning the vaginal area, increased sweating, and raised pH level also increase the chances of getting yeast infection.
Use of drugs such as prednisone or antibiotics, menopause, maintaining poor personal hygiene (wiping back to front), douching, use of perfumed sprays such as FDS, allergies, and injuries to the vaginal area also contribute the development of yeast infections. Sometimes, treatment for cancer and HIV will impare the immune system leading to a yeast infection. In these cases or when related to other debilitating medical conditions, the yeast can enter the human blood to become a dangerous systemic infection and in rare cases lead to death.
Many suffers of yeast infections are interested in a natural treatment for yeast infections or other nondrug treatments for their conditions. While this is the preferred way to treat a yeast infection, it may become necessay to use an OTC or prescription medication to get your current yeast infection under control. Once the active infection is cured you can look for ways to rebalance you system, correct contributing factors and maybe never have to deal with a yeast infection again!