How to get rid of a vaginal yeast infection
Anytime you hear the word “yeast” as it relates to the human body, the first thing you think about is a vaginal yeast infection – a/ka/a vaginal candidiasis or vulvovaginal candidiasis. The infection involves a type of fungus – yeast (candida albicans – which accounts for almost 92% of all cases – the remainder due to another species of Candida).
Many women normally carry yeast in the vagina without the presence of symptoms. When it multiplies to the point of infection there is inflammation, irritation, odor, discharge, and itching.
There are certain bacteria that live naturally in the vagina which keep C albicans from growing out of control; but once the balance of these microorganisms becomes upset, C albicans grow uncontrollably and lead to symptoms. Some medications, changes in hormone levels, and even certain diseases will also allow a vaginal yeast infection to develop.
Vaginal yeast infections are common in most women and are NOT considered an STD (sexually transmitted disease). A man can develop symptoms of itching and penile rash after having sex with an infected partner.
You don’t have to be a female to have too much yeast in your body.
The overgrowth of yeast in the human body (male or female) is found in warm moist places – your mouth (commonly known as thrush), in your intestinal tract, or in the vaginal area. Many times it is because a person has allergic reactions to the yeast. An allergic reaction to yeast can cause fatigue, rash or infection.
When this happens it’s time to decrease the amount of yeast in your body. Yeast naturally occurs in the body, but if you are sensitive to it – decrease it. Although yeast infections are not serious and can be treated with medications, such an infection can be a sign of an underlying, more serious condition or can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Using an over-the-counter medication may not improve symptoms making the infection worsen. Without a doctors exam how would you know if it is a vaginal yeast infection of bacterial vaginosis which is a bacterial infection. Similar symptoms occur irritation from intercourse or tampons, an allergic reaction, or even a chemical irritation from soap, perfumes, deodorants, or powders. Recurring yeast infections may be a sign of a more serious disease – diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS.
There are rare cases where a yeast infection can lead to systemic Candidal disease which is fatal in 75% of people who develop it. The infection spreads through the bloodstream. Those with weakened immune systems are most susceptible.
If you are using antibiotics for strept throat (for instance), it may result in a vaginal yeast infections because antibiotics can destroy the bacteria that protect the vagina.
Diabetes can lower the glycogen stored in certain vaginal cells and may also raise the sugar content (and pH) of the vagina which increase the risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection.
An immune system can become weakened by HIV/AIDS, douching, scratches in the vagina caused during insertion of tampons or other objects, tight-fitting underwear or underwear made of material other than cotton (this can increase temperature, moisture, and local irritation), hormonal changes (ovulation, menopause, pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone therapy).
Common symptoms include irritated vagina and vaginal area, vaginal discharge (typically white-gray and thick, with a consistency resembling cottage cheese, intense itching of the genitals, painful or burning urination, or painful intercourse.
See you doctor immediately if you have a foul-smelling or yellow discharge, vaginal discharge that lasts for more than a week, bloody discharge, increased urination, stomach or back pain that accompanies vaginal discharge, vomiting, fever, and if symptoms diminish but return within two months.
Try to avoid taking antibiotics since they attack the bacteria for which they are intended and may also kill so of the good bacteria that lives in your body.
Consider taking probotics which are live microorganisms (in most cases bacteria) similar to beneficial microorganisms. These are found in supplement form and also found naturally in certain cultured foods – such as yogurt. Two different probotics include LACTOBACILLUS and BIFIDOBACTERIUM. These combat yeast in the gastrointestinal system.
Enzymes in products designed specifically to help fight yeast are usually used along with probotics.
Reduce the consumption of sugary foods and juices in your diet. Refined sugars also encourage the growth of yeast in the body. Also refrain from eating breads and cracker for a while.
Grapefruit seed extract (found in a health food store) – use several drops a day after each meal diluted in a glass of water (4 oz.) will also help.
Sometimes when treating symptoms there may be a temporary worsening of the symptoms due to the “die off” reaction – caused by the release of protein and toxins when yeast is killed.
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