Yeast is a fungus that lives in our body naturally, but a series of infections begin when it grows out of control. Those who have already experienced it would know how tough it is to deal with it. For those who are safe from yeast infections until now, we’re glad you’re here. This blog will discuss all you need to know about yeast infection treatment, causes, symptoms, and preventive measures. With this information, you are better prepared to tackle this infection. After all, knowing how to deal with this problem is half the battle.
What is a yeast infection?
Yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans. This infection is also commonly known as vaginal candidiasis or candidiasis vaginosis. Though yeast lives in our body naturally and causes no harm, this infection is often a result of the victory of harmful bacteria over good ones. Certain factors make it difficult for the supporting bacteria to maintain this fungus within normal limits and outgrow it, resulting in a yeast infection. This infection typically lasts for a few days. The duration also differs based on the medication used for treating it and the severity of the infection.
Yeast infection can happen in various areas of the body. Some of them are listed below:
- Skin folds and navel
- Genitals
- Corners of the mouth
- Nail bed
The signs and symptoms of yeast infection are similar to any other fungal infection. Common yeast infection symptoms are redness, rashes, itching, swelling, and pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and more, it is always good to seek a doctor’s opinion than trying to treat it on your own.
What are the causes of yeast infection?
Yeast infection is nothing to be scared of, but it is also true that it does not heal on its own. Such an infection needs medical attention to prevent it from spreading too much.
Candida Albicans cause a yeast infection, resulting from an imbalance of microorganisms in our body. Yeast infection can happen to anyone. The most common causes of yeast infection include:
- Pregnancy
- A particular type of medication, such as antibiotics and steroids
- Health conditions like Diabetes, Obesity
- Immune system suppressing diseases like HIV
- Cancer treatments
- Stress
Higher-risk groups are
- Pregnant women
- Infants
- People who wear dentures
- People taking antibiotics
- People undergoing a cancer treatment
- People with other health conditions, such as HIV or diabetes
- People with a compromised immune system
Besides these, particular lifestyle conditions also contribute to the development of yeast infection, such as eating a high-sugar diet, wearing tight clothes, and not practising good personal hygiene.
How to diagnose a yeast infection?
As mentioned above, you should rush to a healthcare provider immediately if you notice any signs and symptoms of a yeast infection. He will examine the infected area and may scrape off some skin or part of a nail to confirm the diagnosis.
How to treat a yeast infection?
Treatment of yeast infection is similar to any kind of skin infection. There may be some changes depending upon the infected area. In most cases, ointments and anti-fungal creams work the best. Before going ahead with any treatment, your healthcare provider will consider your age, your lifestyle, and the severity of the infection to suggest a proper treatment plan.
Yeast infection can be annoying. But it is easy to treat it. Here are a few prevention tips for yeast infection:
- Practice good personal hygiene
- Avoid wearing tight clothes
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that helps your skin breathe
- Avoid using scented bathing products
- Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep
- Keep your genital area clean and dry
These simple prevention tips can save you from the trouble of a yeast infection. Also, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle that reduces the risk of many health conditions like Diabetes and obesity.
Always consult a dermatologist!
Though many home remedies and OTCs available, dermatologists recommend not trying them out as they may aggravate the problem. It is best to visit an expert who will prescribe oral or topical medication after examining your case. Connect with experts through Skin and Hair Academy to get the best treatment. Also, get access to insightful content on various hair and skin infections and issues curated by expert dermatologists.
