“Vaginal yeast infection was terrible, but the side effects of over-the-counter drugs to treat this condition had me literally walking on my hands and knees! This was really the classic case of the cure being worse than the disease!” And Susan isn’t the only one who’s experienced this. There are thousands out there who remain in dread of prescription medicines. However, an excellent option is the safe and effective grandma’s natural remedies.

If you were to go by medical statistics, Candida albicans, a strain of yeast causes over seventy percent of vaginal yeast infection. Although, it occurs naturally in the vagina, its growth is controlled by the acidic environment created by Lactobacillus acidophilus, a resident vaginal bacterium. In case an imbalance occurs, you get straddled with yeast infection.

Home remedy for yeast infection

Women today are increasingly using natural remedies for yeast infection, because over-the-counter medicines not only give some severe side effects, but also prove expensive as compared to herbal remedies for yeast infection. So, let’s see what these home remedies for vaginal yeast infection are:

a. Yogurt: This is one to the best home remedy to cure yeast infection. Yogurt contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, a bacterium that produces hydrogen peroxide to kill yeast. You can apply yogurt directly to the vulva and inject some into the vagina by means of a tampon soaked in it. Apply it once or twice a day for as long as needed, until the condition disappears. Another method is to make yogurt icicles in a freezer and insert it into the vagina. This not only cures, but also soothes the fires raging within!

b. Apple cider vinegar: Regularly daubing the prone areas with apple cider vinegar is an effective remedy for vaginal yeast infection. To stop the itching, you can add some garlic juice to it. However, don’t forget to dilute the vinegar concentration.

c. Garlic: This herbal magic contains natural antifungal substances that kill yeast. Take a fresh clove of garlic and wrap it in a gauze or cheesecloth after carefully peeling off its papery skin. Insert it into the vagina and leave it in for up to twelve hours or overnight. For mild infection this would be enough. For chronic vaginal yeast infection it can take several nights in a row.

d. Teatree oil: Teatree oil is another widely used natural remedy for vaginal yeast infection. Coat the top half of a non-applicator type tampon with a lubricant, such as KY jelly or even olive oil, and apply a few drops of pure tea tree oil to it. Insert the tampon into the vagina. The lubricant keeps the teatree oil from getting absorbed into the tampon.

e. Boric acid: It’s been found to be a great remedy for vaginal yeast infection. Just load some empty capsules with boric acid. Insert two of them into the vagina at night. The heat and moisture of the vagina will melt them to release boric acid. This is a pretty strong treatment and is capable of effectively treating even severe vaginal yeast infection.

f. Potassium sorbate: This potent fungicide is widely used in brewing beer to control yeast growth. Dip a cotton tampon into a three percent solution and insert it into the vagina at night and remove it in the morning. Continue this treatment for a few days until the symptoms disappear.

h. Gentian violet: This traditional remedy is effective against yeast and other infections. The solution is swabbed all over the vulva and up into the vagina once or twice a day for a few days to get rid of the infection. Since it stains, wear a pad.

These home remedies for vaginal yeast infection have been used since time immemorial. However, there’s always a risk of allergies and reactions, so always take the advice of your physician before opting for any one of them.

Yeast Infection Community

When Candida albicans, a fungus, multiplies unabated and wreaks havoc in the crotch area, it’s hard to ignore. There can be many reasons for this infection to occur, but the results are always the same! Vaginal itch, vulvar soreness, cheese-like vaginal discharge, intense burning and pain. These vaginal yeast infection symptoms generally make you suffer in the extreme. But, the reality is you’re not the only one suffering from this annoying, but curable, infection, over seventy-five percent women fall victim to it during their lifetime.

Yeast infection causes and cures

If this is the first time you’ve had a yeast infection, consult your physician before trying any home remedy for vaginal yeast infection or over-the-counter products. The drugs will generally come in the form of vaginal creams and vaginal applications rather than oral medication. And pregnant women can expect to undergo a longer treatment and closer monitoring.

There are both over-the-counter and natural cures for yeast infection available. If it’s your first time, then probably you should go in for home cure for yeast infection. However, your physician will be the right person to suggest the best cures for yeast infection.

Homemade cures for yeast infection have been used since antiquity, although scientific studies have not proven their effectiveness, probably because they work for some and don’t work for others. The first amongst these are vinegar douches. These are generally used to clean the vagina after menstrual periods or sex.

However, this may remove the good bacteria lining the vagina and, if you’re experiencing vaginal discharge, it may actually worsen the condition. The other is eating yogurt. Yogurt contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, the good bacteria. According to one study, women who took a cup of yogurt a day for six months continuously reduced the incidence of yeast infection. However, this has not been proven conclusively.

Many current non-prescription over-the-counter medications, like Candisil, highly recommended for mild cases of yeast infection, have cure rates of about seventy-five to ninety percent! Other over-the-counter drugs, containing antihistamines or topical anesthetics (numbing medications), are not that effective and only mask the symptoms without treating the underlying problem.

The strong prescription drugs may include miconazole (Monistat-7, M-Zole), tioconazole (Vagistat Vaginal), butoconazole (Femstat) and clotrimazole (Femizole-7, Gyne-Lotrimin). These are sold as vaginal suppositories or creams and are inserted into the vagina with a plunger-type applicator or massaged into the vagina, depending on the formulation. Using them daily for seven days generally manages to clear the infection. However, stronger doses require only one to three days for taking full effect.

Severe infections need stronger antifungal medications, which are normally taken orally as a single dose. These include fluconazole (Diflucan) and itraconazole (Sporanox). All these powerful drugs are generally used for second or recurrent yeast infection and are known to cause side effects too. So, if increased irritation persists in the area, discontinue the medication immediately.

However, it’s important to remember that using these drugs, when the condition is not properly diagnosed, can make the yeast resistant. And resistant infections are very difficult to treat with the currently available medications. So, always get your symptoms properly diagnosed from a physician before trying out any cures.

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If you know the cause of vaginal yeast infection, you’d be that much better prepared in preventing it. Just to give you a brief idea of the infection, yeast is ever present in the vagina, albeit under check of the acidic environment there. However, if for some reason this balance is disturbed and acidity of vagina decreases, yeast multiplies like crazy, saddling you with vaginal yeast infection symptoms.

Preventing yeast infection

The much cliched maxim ‘prevention is better than cure’ couldn’t have been truer in the case of vaginal yeast infection. If you know what to do and what not to do, you can banish the fear of this condition from your minds forever. So, let’s see how to prevent yeast infection:

a. Clothing: Since the genital area is warm and humid, and the sweat usually accumulates here, the type of clothing has a bearing on the chances of infection. If you wear tight clothing or of nylon and lycra, you’re sure to trap the air and create an ideal environment for yeast to breed. It’s best to go for cotton clothing, especially the undergarments, that ‘breathes’ and soaks up the sweat. If you desire to wear a panty hose, always wear cotton panties underneath. Also avoid wearing a wet swim costume or exercise suits for a long duration.

b. Diet: Eat a balanced diet to keep your body healthy. This would help maintain a normal balance of organisms in the vagina. However, women undergoing antibiotic treatment should eat one cup of yogurt a day to prevent this infection. However, remember, yogurt is not a cure for it. Drinking acidophilus milk containing live Lactobacillus organisms is found to be beneficial in maintaining a normal balance of vaginal organisms.

c. Toiletries: Perfumed bath products or powders can affect the normal balance of organisms in the vaginal area, which can lead to yeast infection. So, a void the use of irritating soaps, feminine sprays, talcs, bubble baths, scented toilet papers, deodorants, tampons and perfumes to avoid the signs and symptoms of vaginal yeast infection .

d. Douches: Douching or washing the vagina with a stream of water is a big no-no, as it washes away the natural protective mucous of the vagina leaving it more susceptible to yeast and other vaginal infections. More importantly, douching can also spread the infection from the vagina to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease.

e. Toilet habits: Keep the external genital area clean and dry at all times. When cleaning your rear after using the toilet, always wipe from front to back to prevent the yeast, which normally inhabits the intestinal tract, from being transferred to the vaginal area. Change tampons and sanitary napkins frequently.

f. Sex aids: Those prone to vaginal dryness should never use petroleum-based lubricants for vaginal lubrication during sexual intercourse. Go for water-based ones.

g. Medical precautions: Diabetics are prone to vaginal yeast infection and should keep their diabetes under control. Low blood sugar levels decreases the risk of yeast infections. Also, you shouldn’t use antibiotics unnecessarily, as they can affect the vaginal environment, allowing yeast to proliferate.

Taking steps to prevent the occurrence of vaginal yeast infection will save you from an avoidable suffering. However, even for preventive measure, it’s best to take the advice of your health care provider.

Yeast Infection Community

Your physician will generally base the diagnosis on vaginal yeast infection symptoms. You’ll be subjected to a pelvic examination for inflammation of the vagina and white discharge around the vaginal opening. This discharge may even be tested in a laboratory. Once your physician has determined the infection and its severity, he or she’ll suggest the best medicine or methods for the treatment for vaginal yeast infection.

Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatments

Good news is there are many mild vaginal yeast infection drugs you can get without a prescription in the market or on the Net.

So, the first timers afflicted with this ailment can try out this non-prescription medication for quicker and effective results, instead of opting for over-the-counter stronger drugs with side effects.

However, treatment for chronic yeast infection invariably requires the use of antifungal medicines that are inserted directly into the vagina as tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories. Let’s see what these medications are:

a. Miconazole (Monistat, Monazole, Micozole):Monistat-1 has tioconazole, a powerful antifungal drug, as its ingredient and claims a one-day cure for the yeast infection. It comes with one pre-filled, disposable applicator. This anti-fungal drug is also marketed under the brand names of Vagistat-1, GyneCure and Gyno-Trosyd. However, it may not be a one-day wonder and can take up to seven days to clear the infection. Its use can also give allergies.

b. Butoconazole (Femstat, Mycelex): This is a powerful fungicide that has been de-regulated by US FDA. It’s a topical treatment and has no systemic effects and only a few side effects. It comes with three pre-filled, disposable applicators. The bad news is this anti-fungal can cause adverse reactions.

c. Fluconazole (Diflucan) and Itraconazole (Sporanox): These antifungal medications are taken orally as a single dose for severe infections. They’ve a cure rate of over eighty percent. However, they’re not recommended during pregnancy. These medications may also cause liver problems.

d. Nystatin (Mycostatin), Miconazole (Monistat-7, M-Zole) and clotrimazole (Mycelex, Gyne-Lotrimin): Generally used for less severe conditions, these medications can be used as vaginal tablets or cream applicators. A course of seven to fourteen days generally clears the infection. Nystatin (Mycostatin) has a cure rate of about seventy-five to eighty percent, whereas Miconazole (Monistat-7, M-Zole) and clotrimazole (Mycelex, Gyne-Lotrimin), eighty-five to ninety percent.

e. Clotrimazole (Clotrimaderm, Canesten): Oral vaginal clotrimazole is effective against recurrent infection that occurs four or more times annually. However, this drug has to be taken for about six months. Other effective medicines are fluconazole and itraconazole.

Correct diagnosis is very important before using any of these powerful antifungal drugs. The reason is if you use them when you don’t have a yeast infection, you might create a drug-resistant yeast strain in your vagina that won’t respond to these drugs, if and when needed. However, those with confirmed vaginal yeast infection can expect a success rate of ninety percent with these drugs and that too within two weeks or less.

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Although, vaginal yeast infection is more common during pregnancy, than any other time, it may be more difficult to control. But, the good news is this infection has no major negative effects on pregnancy. What is the cause of yeast infection during pregnancy? It is because you go through so many changes; it becomes difficult for your body to maintain an acidic environment in the vagina. Moreover, the increased amount of sugar in the vaginal secretions during pregnancy acts as an open invitation for yeast to feast on, leading to yeast infection in pregnancy.

Yeast infection pregnancy symptom

Vaginal yeast infection symptoms are no different from the usual ones, except for a few changes. Let’s see what these are:

a. Redness, itching, or irritation of vaginal lips.

b. Burning during urination or sex.

c. Copious amounts of discharge that may range from cottage cheese that smells like yeast or bread to greenish or yellowish discharge with the same smell.

Treatment of yeast infection during pregnancy

The difficulty is you can’t have all kinds of medication, since the safety of your developing baby is at stake. But, if this infection remains untreated, it can be passed to your baby’s mouth during delivery as thrush.

So, physicians generally recommend only vaginal creams and suppositories for pregnancy yeast infection treatment and not oral medications. Only non-prescription azole medications are prescribed for treating yeast infection during pregnancy. These include clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin), miconazole (Monistat), terconazole (Terazol) and butoconazole (Femstat). Remember, the single-dose oral medication Diflucan has not been proven safe during pregnancy and lactation. And yes, if your baby does get yeast infection of the mouth, don’t worry; it’s effectively treated with Nystatin.

It may take ten to fourteen days for the infection to completely clear up during pregnancy. Once infection has cleared up and any sores have healed, it is recommended to use a starch-free drying powder or Nystatin powder to prevent a recurrence.

Preventing Vaginal Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

It’s said prevention is better than the cure. It’s doubly true for the pregnant, since they’re already experiencing a great amount of discomfort. So, if you’re pregnant, you’d do well to follow these tips:

a. Wear loose, cotton clothing and undergarments that can ‘breathe’ and never wear synthetic clothes that accumulate sweat.

b. After using the toilet, wipe your rear from front to back and not the other way round to avoid the harmful bacteria from entering the vagina.

c. Totally avoid douching. Also avoid feminine hygiene sprays, sanitary pads, bubble bath, colored or perfumed toilet paper and tampons that contain deodorant.

d. Always keep your genital area dry. So, after regular, thorough washing, use your blow dryer on a low, cool setting to dry.

e. If you happen to take a dip in the swimming pool, it’s best to take a shower immediately and get out of damp swimming costume as quickly as possible.

f. Limit sugar intake, as sugar promotes yeast growth.

g. Get plenty of rest to make it easier for your body to fight infections.

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of yeast infection now, it’ll be best to show it to your physician at the first instance. Only then will he or she be able to suggest the best line of treatment. Those who don’t have any symptoms of this infection should adhere to the preventive measures.

Yeast Infection Community

Yeast infection, which is generally accompanied by extreme vulvar itching and burning, can be nasty. If these chronic yeast infection symptoms occur four or more times a year, it becomes recurrent vaginal yeast infection, a chronic case. So, it’s always better to get a correct diagnosis from a physician, who’ll confirm it by seeing yeast on a wet prep of the vagina or by growing Candida yeast species on culture. This’ll be performed for several recurrences in a row to rule out other kinds of vaginitis, which may not respond to yeast treatment.

Cause of Chronic Vaginal Yeast Infection

Creams, lubricants, spermicides, scented sanitary products, douches, soaps, bubble baths and condom lubricants containing chemicals like propylene glycol, methylparaben, butylated hydroxyanisol, cetyl alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate and methyl benzethonium chloride are deemed as leading causes of recurrent yeast infection. They all can lead to vulvar and vaginal burning.

Risk factors of chronic yeast infection

You’re at risk for chronic yeast infection, if you’ve insulin resistance, abnormal glucose tolerance or diabetes. Even oral contraceptives or chronic antibiotic therapy can be a cause of recurrent yeast infection. And, if you’re HIV infected with CD4 count below 100, you’re again at risk.

Treatment for chronic yeast infection

Of course, mild products or natural cures may not work in the case of chronic yeast infection. Only powerful antifungal medication would do for chronic yeast infection cure. These are butoconazole, fluconazole and terconazole. Boric acid vaginal suppositories are also effective against Candida albicans . If you’re suffering from recurring vaginal yeast infection, you can prevent them by taking the weekly treatment of terconazole vaginal cream.

There are some preventive measures you can take to prevent the recurrence of this condition. Don’t wear pantyhose or tight pants, such as jeans, which traps moisture in the crotch area. Wear loose, cotton undergarments that absorb body moisture, instead. Also, avoid sweat producing activities and air dry yourself after bathing or swimming. Don’t shave the vulvar area, as pubic hairs prevent the chemicals from making contact with the skin.

However, some preventive measures thought to be effective have actually not been proved. Yogurt with Lactobacillus acidophillus cultures doesn’t seem to decrease the occurrence of yeast infection. Taking fluconazol orally every week also does nothing to alleviate this problem.

Chronic vaginal yeast infection management program

Once the cause of chronic yeast infection has been identified, you can begin the treatment program. For this, you must know the regularity with which the infections occur. Then, depending on it, start a prophylactic regimen of taking the drugs. In case infection seems to occur after menses, use yeast treatment just before or during the menses. If it occurs after heavy intake of carbohydrates, or after a course of antibiotics or steroids, then use yeast treatment at the end.

So, if you suspect recurrent vaginal yeast infections, keep a record of its occurrences. If it occurs more than three times within the year, then after third or fourth occurrence get your vaginal yeast culture microscopically examined. Only this will help your physician to diagnose the condition and suggest the correct line of treatment.

Yeast Infection Community

The cozy and damp environs of the vagina are home for myriad of microorganisms that includes a species of yeast called Candida albicans. Under normal circumstances, the acidic environment of the vagina doesn’t allow this yeast to proliferate. However, whenever this acidic environment gets diluted for some reason, yeast gets the green signal to go forth and multiply. And that’s how you get saddled with one of the most obnoxious and repulsive diseases ever known to womankind! Yes, the vaginal yeast infection. Don’t believe? Just see vaginal yeast infection picture and you’ll know what we mean.

What causes vaginal yeast infections?

Of course, if you know the cause of yeast infection, you can not only work to prevent it, but also remain alert for vaginal yeast infection symptoms and treat them early on with the milder and effective do-it-yourself products, like Candisil, rather than bombarding your body with over-the-counter drugs.

As already mentioned, the acidic environment of the vagina is intimately connected with the onset of this infection. Acidity may fluctuate due to increased pH, increased heat and moisture, allergic reactions, elevated sugar levels and hormonal fluxes. But what causes these common environmental disruptions? The reasons may be:

a. Antibiotics: Can antibiotic cause yeast infection? Yes, some antibiotics cause yeast infection. When these strong drugs are used for treating problems like sinus infection, they not only kill unwanted bacteria in the sinuses, but also the ‘good’ bacteria in the vagina, upsetting the acidic balance. This allows the yeast to have a free run and cause the infection.

b. Chemicals: You’d be surprised to know that some innocent products, like inks, dyes, and perfumes, can upset the balance in the vagina, leading to yeast infection. So, steer clear of commercial douches and also don’t soap your vagina to keep the vaginal environment intact. Also, avoid the use of chemical laden, colored and perfumed toilet papers, laundry detergents, feminine deodorant sprays, bubble baths, bath salts, scented tampons and sanitary pads.

c. Condoms: Condoms containing nonoxynol-9, a spermicide lubricant, which claim to kill the HIV virus, are said to cause of vaginal yeast infection. So, if you suspect this to be the case, use a plain condom or one with different spermicidal lubricant.

d. Hormones: Hormonal imbalance can cause yeast infection; the reason why pregnant women are more prone to this infection. Not only does pregnancy create a hormonal imbalance, certain contraceptive pills and steroids can do it too.

e. Weakened immune system: It has been found that women with weakened immune system, due to HIV or Lyme disease, are extremely prone to yeast infection.

f. Sexual transmission: Vaginal yeast infection can unfortunately be transmitted by direct contact between partners.

g. Injury: If the vulvar or vaginal membrane gets injured, say by too much friction in the absence of enough lubrication, it can lead to yeast infection.

Knowing the causes of vaginal yeast infection can come to your rescue in early detection of this affliction. However, take the opinion of your physician before considering any line of treatment.

Yeast Infection Community

About seventy-five percent women suffer from irritation of the vagina and vulva, the area around the opening to the vagina, during their lives. And, the irony is the culprit resides within your body! Yes, Candida albicans, a kind of fungus, is always present in the vagina, but kept under control because of the acidic environment. It’s when this environment becomes less acidic that the yeast gets a chance to multiply like crazy. And it’s just a matter of time when it takes the form of infection to wreak havoc, almost making you climb walls! If you’ve not experienced this condition ever, you’d just shudder to have a look at vaginal yeast infection pictures.

But, how will you come to know whether you’ve this infection? Although, there is no substitute for a physician’s diagnosis, there are certain telltale symptoms that are a sure giveaway of this infection.

Vaginal yeast infection symptom

Since, Candida yeast infection symptoms may vary from person to person, it’s important to know the cause of vaginal yeast infection. Pregnant women are more prone to vaginal yeast infection because of hormonal changes that disturb the vaginal environment, encouraging yeast overgrowth. Those who regularly use oral contraceptives for birth control are also more susceptible to this infection. Even those using steroids and antibiotics are known to succumb to this condition. A weakened immune system or diabetics also makes you a likely candidate.

The effect of vaginal yeast infection may range from mild to very uncomfortable. Let’s see what the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection generally are:

a. Itching and irritation: The first sign of the onset of this infection, itching is generally localized in the vagina and vulva. The itching sensation is usually mild to start with, but may become intense over time.

b. Burning: If itching is left untreated, it may get transformed into a burning sensation so bad you can hardly walk, let alone attend office or undertake household chores. Of course, in this condition you can’t even think of letting your man get anywhere near you!

c. Swelling: The infection may cause the area around the vagina to swell. This probably is a reaction to the inflammation of the vagina.

d. Vaginal discharge: Full fledged yeast infection is accompanied by an obnoxious vaginal discharge. This clumpy, nasty white stuff looks like cottage cheese. However, in some it can appear as watery, clear and slightly yellow fluid.

e. Odor: The vaginal discharge lends a distinct smell to your genitals, which thankfully is not unpleasant. The discharge usually smells like yeast, that is, like bread or beer. This is probably because yeast is used in brewing and baking, though the yeast for this is Saccharomyces cerevisiae and not Candida. This odor is a clear indicator of yeast infection.

f. Burning in passing urine: Of course, the state your vagina is in causes a burning sensation or even pain in passing urine.

Although, the severity of vaginal yeast infection is plain misery to most women afflicted with it, the fact is vaginal yeast infection symptom treatment is easily available and effective. However, before trying out anything, let your physician have the last word.

Yeast Infection Community

Your physician has confirmed you’re suffering from yeast infection. Although, the itching and burning in the vagina or the disgusting vaginal discharge or a host of other symptoms that accompany this infection must have got you worried, it was only your physician that could’ve diagnosed it for you. This is because there are other infections too that display similar symptoms. Knowing about this infection is the first step in its prevention and treatment.

Knowing yeast infection

A group of microscopic fungi or yeast of the Candida family, most commonly Candida albicans, is responsible for the yeast infection. Although, yeast lives inside the vagina, its growth is kept in check by the acidic environment. However, there are times when this environment becomes less acidic, resulting in the growth of yeast and subsequent infection.

Yeast infection treatments

Yeast infection is not life-threatening and is generally counted amongst minor ailments, provided chronic symptoms don’t set in. There are plenty of over-the-counter medications available for treating this problem. Let’s see what they are:

a. Candisil: It is one of the best yeast infection treatment available in the market today. In fact, its list of powerful ingredients has been documented as highly effective by international scientists, organizations, and medical journals. That’s because Candisil penetrates deeply to attack yeast infections from the inside out, especially when used as natural treatment for vaginal yeast infection.

b. Miconazole: This antifungal agent comes in cream, lotion, powder, spray liquid and spray powder. It’s also available as cream and suppositories to be inserted into the vagina. It comes in two forms – Monistat-Derm and Monistat-Vaginal.

c. Tioconazole: This antifungal agent is effective in killing the fungus or yeast and preventing its growth. However, full treatment is required to clear up the infection completely, even if the symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. It comes in the form of Vagistat Vaginal.

d. Butoconazole: Butoconazole is used for infection treatment of vaginal yeast. It requires extended usage to totally eradicate the infection even if the condition is cured, as chances of recurrence of infection cannot be ruled out. It can even be used during menstrual period. It comes in the form of Femstat.

e. Clotrimazole: This ointment is used to topically treat vaginal and anal yeast infection. It decreases the skin irritation and discomfort and ultimately clears the infection. It comes in the form of Femizole-7, Gyne-Lotrimin.

f. Nystatin: Nystatin is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, mouth, vagina and the intestinal tract. This is an excellent agent for oral treatment of yeast infection caused by thrush and other fungal infections.

Consult your physician if you want yeast infection treatment during pregnancy. If your immune system is weak, your physician may recommend Candisil, since it’s an excellent natural infection treatment for yeast and a favorite of doctors everywhere. In fact, Candisil is also a homeopathic infection treatment for yeast. Most households prefer to keep it handy, as an effective herbal treatment for yeast infection. However, if you experience irritation in the vagina or the surrounding tissue by using any of these creams and lotions, discontinue the medication immediately.

Whether you’re going in for male yeast infection treatment or symptom treatment of vaginal yeast infection, just remember to go strictly as per the directions of your physician and read the instructions on the prescribed medications carefully. This will help in speedier eradication of yeast infection.

Yeast Infection Community

If you’ve got vaginal or penile yeast infection, you can afford to hide your symptoms and suffering from others. But, if you happen to contract oral thrush yeast infection, you can be rest assured you’ll be the most vile and repulsive creature around. Don’t believe? Just browse the picture of oral yeast infection or see an oral thrush photo and you’ll know what we mean. This infection can become that bad.

Yeast Infection of the Mouth (Oral Thrush)

Whereas vaginal yeast infection is caused by the fungus Candida albicans, the oral yeast infection is the gift of Monilia albicans. Monilia infects mouth and throat, especially of babies and the elderly. In this form, it’s called oral thrush. There are four clinical forms of oral yeast infection:

a. Moniliasis or thrush: This manifests itself as a smooth creamy white or yellow coating on any oral surface. If this surface is wiped off, a red underlying tissue is revealed.

b. Erythematous: This appears as red, peeling patches, most commonly on the palate and tongue.

c. Chronic hyperplastic: This is extra tissue and cannot readily be wiped off. It may appear discolored because of staining caused by foods or tobacco.

d. Angular cheilitis: It’s visible as red cracks at the corners of the mouth often covered by a pseudo membrane. It can occur with other forms of candidiasis or appear independently.

The good news is not all get infected by Monilia. But there are certain people who are more at risk, like newborn babies, those with poor nutrition or immune deficiency, adults with diabetes or other metabolic disturbance, those undergoing antibiotic or chemotherapy treatment, denture users and drug users.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush Yeast Infection

The symptoms of oral thrush or oral yeast infection appear as burning or painful sensations in the mouth. However, they may often be asymptomatic, that is, displaying no symptoms. Non-visible symptoms may include a craving for sugar, alcohol, or bread; digestive problems; fatigue; depression; and muscle or joint pains.

Causes of Oral Thrush Yeast Infection

There can be many causes of oral thrush or oral yeast infection. Let’s see what they are:

a. Broad-spectrum antibiotics: They increase susceptibility to these infections by killing the beneficial gastrointestinal bacteria that naturally keeps a check on Monilia, thus disrupting the normal balance of organisms.

b. Glucocorticosteroid preparations: These appear to lower resistance to Monilia by suppressing the immunity.

c. Birth control pills: They’ve hormonal effects that can lower a woman’s resistance to overgrowth of Monilia.

d. Tricyclic antidepressants: They’ve been found to be associated with reduced salivary flow, which can lead to oral yeast infections.

e. Systemic diseases: There are systemic diseases in which oral yeast infections are more prevalent. These include diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism and Sjogren’s syndrome reduced saliva.

Oral treatments for Thrush Yeast Infection

There are some excellent yeast infection oral medications. Let’s see what they are:

a. Defamox: This double action product is one of the most popular off-the-shelf medications generally recommended by medical experts. It comprises an internal pill that removes Candida from the body effectively and a liquid spray for tongue and gums that help relieve the burning, swelling, bleeding and white coating of tongue immediately. Together the two ensure the thrush is completely removed from the system.

b. Nystatin: It’s an antifungal antibiotic that’s effective both topically and orally. The yeast organism rarely develops resistance to it.

c. Amphotericin B: This creams and ointments based amphotericin B is used for the more invasive form of Candida.

d. Ketoconazole preparations: These antifungal preparations cause changes in the fungus cell wall and bind with the organisms, thereby eradicating the infection.

Oral yeast infection can play havoc with the mouth. So, the first step is to get a proper diagnosis from the physician. The next is to take whatever medications have been prescribed regularly. Only then can you expect a permanent cure.

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