A yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by any of the Candida species, although Candida albicans is most likely to be found.
Although yeast organisms are always present in people, naturally occurring microorganisms typically keep them from "overgrowing."
Candidasis will affect at least three quarters of all women at some point in their lives. Almost all women have the organism Candida albicans in their vagina, and it rarely causes any issues.
However, if it becomes out of balance with other "normal flora," like lactobacilli, which can also be hurt by using douches, an overgrowth and symptoms can occur. Diabetes mellitus, use of some antibiotics, and oral contraceptives can increase the risk of yeast infections.
The whitish or whitish-gray discharge, which may have a "yeasty" smell similar to beer or baking bread, and itching and irritation of the vagina and/or vulva are the most common symptoms. It might look like cottage cheese.
Many women mistake a yeast infection for the symptoms of the more common bacterial vaginosis. Only 33% of women who were self-treating for a yeast infection actually had one, according to a 2002 study in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Instead, they had either a mixed-type infection or bacterial vaginosis. Currently, only a doctor's visit can diagnose bacterial vaginosis.
Candidiasis is claimed to be effectively treated either with home cures or, on account of a more serious contamination, with either over the counter or remedy antifungal drugs. The consumption of yogurt, which contains lactobacillus—"friendly" bacteria that kill yeast—or direct application of yogurt, acidophilus tablets or salves, and even lightly crushed garlic cloves yield allicin—an antifungal—as home remedies for candidiasis. Gelcaps filled with boric acid powder and inserted at bedtime for three to four nights have also been used to treat yeast infections. A weak mixture of "Baking" soda in water (1 teaspoon to 1 cup) can also be used as a douche. Because it is alkaline, baking soda temporarily lowers the acidity of the vagina, rendering it unsuitable for candida.
Although minor infections can be treated at home with home remedies, seeking medical attention may be necessary due to the patient's inability to accurately assess the infection's severity. Frequently, an infection can only be treated with prescription medication; Topical clotrimazole, topical nystatin, topical fluconazole, and topical ketoconazole are common antifungal medications used to treat candidiasis. Amphotericin B, caspofungin, or voriconazole can be utilized in the treatment of severe infections, typically in hospitalized patients. The less common bacterial vaginosis cannot be treated with these medications.
Disclaimer: The information presented here should not be construed as medical advice, despite the fact that every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. For more information regarding a yeast infection, please consult your physician.
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