Yeast infections are very common. Candidiasis is the most common type of yeast infection. It occurs most often in moist areas of the skin including armpits, skin folds, the mouth, genital regions and more. It is important to know how to treat candidiasis and yeast infections. Keep reading to find out more about candidiasis and other yeast infections.
Yeast Infection
There are extremely common in women. They are also referred to as yeast vaginitis, Candida vulvovaginitis or Candida vaginitis. The yeast that causes vaginitis is called Candida. Candida may also be found in healthy women. A yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of yeast. Vaginal yeast infections are not considered a sexually-transmitted disease because they can occur in women who are not sexually active.
Yeast Infection Symptoms
Yeast infections can cause a variety of symptoms including:
- Intense itching of the vaginal area
- Vaginal burning or irritation
- Thick vaginal discharge
- Redness and soreness of the vagina and vulva
- Pain during sexual intercourse and urination
Even if signs and symptoms point towards a yeast infection, most doctors will take a sample of vaginal discharge to ensure that symptoms are not caused by a sexually transmitted disease, bacterial vaginosis or trichomonas infections.
Vaginal yeast infections are treated using prescription medications. There are many anti-itch medications that can help to alleviate symptoms. Treatment may include creams and tablets. Practicing good genital hygiene can prevent infections from occurring. This may include using mild soaps, wearing cotton underwear and changing pads or tampons often.
Yeast Infection on Skin
Candida is a certain type of fungus that can cause your skin to develop an infection. Candidiasis is the most likely and common type of yeast infection. Your skin may host small amount of fungus at any time but problems can come up if there is an overgrowth of this fungus. Candida infections on the skin include athlete’s foot, oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections, nail fungus, jock itch and diaper rash. Candida skin infections can occur anywhere on the body and are especially common where there are skin folds are including armpits, groin, in-between toes and fingers and more. The fungus thrives in certain conditions including moist, warm and sweaty conditions. Candida infections are more common in infants, people who have diabetes, people who are overweight, people with thyroid issues, people who have inflammatory disorders, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. Symptoms of a skin yeast infection include rashes, discolored patches (red and purple patches), blisters, pustules, scaling, cracks in the skin, soreness, itching and more. Yeast infections are diagnosed through a physical exam and skin sampling. The doctor will try and determine the underlying cause of the yeast infection. Treatment for yeast skin infections include drying agents, changes in hygiene, creams, lotions, and ointments. Doctors may also prescribe over-the-counter topical drugs.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is another kind of yeast infection. It occurs in a person's mouth and tongue. There is a fungus named Candida albicans. The fungus is found in the mouth normally and doesn’t cause harm, but when there is overgrowth. Oral thrush is common in infants and toddlers. The symptoms of oral thrush include white lesions on the tongue, roof of mouth, gums, and tonsils. The lesions may bleed if they are scratched. Oral thrush can also cause a burning sensation that makes eating and swallowing difficult. It can also cause cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth. Some people who have oral thrush may cause a loss of taste and cotton-like feeling in your mouth. Oral thrush occurs in infants and young children. People who are at an increased risk of developing an oral thrush infection may already suffer from other conditions including diabetes, vaginal yeast infection and other oral issues. People who have a weak immune system or are on certain medications may also have an increased risk of developing oral thrush. Oral thrush is commonly treated using medications,
When getting treated for oral thrush, it's going to vary based on the patietns age and their level of health. Treatment is designed around prevening the spread of fungus or any more fungus growing. At-home remedies include using a soft toothbrush when you brush your teeth, replacing toothbrushes you have used when infected, not using mouthwash, using a saltwater rinse, maintaining appropriate blood sugar levels and more. Oral thrush generally responds well to treatment and goes away completely within a few weeks. It is important to practice good oral hygiene including regular brushing, flossing, rinsing and dental checkups. A healthy immune system can also help to prevent the development of oral thrush.