Yeast Infections - Choosing the Right Treatment For Candida
This yeast is commonly found in every person's intestinal tract.
Candida takes up residence with beneficial bacteria or probiotics.
When everything is in a healthy state the bacteria to yeast ration is 10:1 in the intestines.
If the ration becomes imbalanced the yeast can begin to grow quickly overtaking the bowels and spread to other areas of the body.
This can include the vagina as well as external locations.
It is important to note that by the time the yeast infection is found in the vagina or in an external location the internal locations have already been infected.
Since World War II the use of antibiotics has increased as had the occurrence of yeast infections.
Antibiotics are not the only contributing factor in yeast infections.
Warm moist body areas can contribute to the growth of yeast.
Cuts or other breakdown of the skin may be the opening yeast needs to penetrate into the body.
In babies, the mouth or diaper areas are often locations where yeast infections can manifest.
Older adults find yeast infections more common under their breasts and lower abdomen, around dentures, nail beds and areas where skin tends to fold over on itself.
Recurring yeast infections can be a symptom of more serious illnesses such as diabetes, AIDS and leukemia.
Yeast infections can be treated and for most individuals it can be gone in less than a week.
If an individual has a weakened immune system, consulting a physician is essential before beginning any self-treatment options.
As a precaution keep moist areas dry.
Apply talcum power under breasts and other folds of skin once the skin has been dried.
Use cotton underwear as it absorbs moisture better than synthetic materials.
Avoid douching, feminine sprays and deodorant tampons.
Sanitize toys and other objects a baby or toddler may insert into their mouths.
There are several over the counter and prescription medications that can be used at home.
Medications ending in "azole" are of a family of antifungal drugs which block the manufacture ergosterol.
Ergosterol is a crucial material of the yeast cell wall; without which the yeast wall weakens and dies.
When Ergosterol is used it does not cause harm to human cells.
Brands and medication names often seen include: o Miconazole (Monistat Vaginal) o Tioconazole (Vagistat Vaginal) o Butoconazole (Femstat) o Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin) In the event of thrush, good oral hygiene is the starting point.
When diagnosed with thrush an individual may be instructed to swish with nystatin (an antifungal agent).
In the event the individual affected is an infant; the breastfeeding mother should see her physician to be evaluated for a yeast infection of the breast.
Denture wearers should clean completely their dentures on a regular basis.
Antifungal lozenges or pills may be prescribed to adults only for thrush.
In the event an infant or toddler experiences diaper rash, clotrimazole creams and lotions can be used.
Changing the diapers frequently and using a cream barrier will keep moisture away and speed recovery.
Taking precautions can eliminate the chances of infection.