The vagina creates its own environment and maintains a balance among the normal bacteria found there and the hormonal changes in a woman's body. Vaginitis occurs when the vaginal ecosystem has been changed by certain medications such as antibiotics, hormones, contraceptive preparations (oral and topical), douches, vaginal medication, sexual intercourse, sexually transmitted diseases, stress, and change in sexual partners.
A woman who has had one vaginal yeast infection can usually recognize its symptoms if it recurs. And a woman who has had several infections has no doubt about what's wrong when the next yeast infection starts. Another symptom is a thick, mostly odorless discharge. But this can be misleading because discharge in and of itself is not diagnostic. If you have a white discharge with an intense irritating itch, you may have an infection. Unfortunately, many women will, in response to increased estrogen at mid-cycle and the increased production of cervical mucus, develop a white, curdy discharge. That is not a yeast infection.
Candida infections in the mouth are often called "thrush." Symptoms include creamy white patches that cover painful areas in the mouth, throat, or on the tongue. Because other infections cause similar symptoms, it's important to go to a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Wearing artificial fingernails increases the chance of getting yeast infections under the natural fingernails. Fungal infections start in the space between the artificial and natural nails, which become discolored. Treatment for these types of infections -- as well as those that occur in other skin folds, such as underarms or between toes -- require different products, most of which are available only with a doctor's prescription.
Another cause of yeast infection is a generally weakened or deficient immune system. How does the immune system get worn down enough to be a cause of yeast infection in the average person? Many times a person has had an illness or injury and their health is never the same again. The body has been damaged too severely for the immune system to repair the cells properly, although it never stops trying. Over time, the immune system weakens to the point it can no longer defend the body. Instead, it focuses on other processes more important for continued life.
The essential oil tea tree oil, applied topically to the vaginal area, has shown some potential as a natural remedy for yeast infections. A compound called terpinen-4-ol in tea tree oil appears to be responsible. Unfortunately, there haven't been any clinical studies in humans showing that tea tree oil is effective or safe for yeast infections. Until we have more evidence, it should not be recommended. Full strength tea tree oil should never be applied to the vaginal area.
Various topical creams may be used to relieve itching or irritation of the vulva (folds of skin on the outside of the vagina). Oral medications may be necessary, but these can be obtained only by prescription from a physician.
Suffering from vaginal pain, itching or dryness is not easy. And things get worse when these symptoms put a shadow on your sex life, making your relationship difficult. Therefore, you should know there are three types of vaginal irritation. The first kind, the vaginal dryness occurs more often while your body enters menopause as the amount of oestrogen is lower. This is causing a decrease in the production of lubricants; consequently the soreness and the itching during intercourse are not far away from happening.
The second type of vaginal irritation is vestibulitis. This is an inflammation of the area at the entrance of the vagina. This is also caused by a very sensitive area in that region of the body. The exact causes of this irritation haven't been figured out yet, but it's been reported that the chemical substances in soaps or deodorants have been causing this type of irritation. So always pay attention to your toiletries and don't use them if you are suffering from this irritation.
And finally, vaginitis is the third type of vaginal infection. This is an itching, even burning sensation which appears deep inside the vagina. And this 'blessing' doesn't come alone: it brings a heavy, ugly discharge. A Candida yeast infection is the cause for these symptoms. And another cause is the infection with the Trichomonas organism.
If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, keep your calm and get treated. But before rushing to the drug store, you should know that there is an alternative Candida treatment: the Candida diet. Some of the uncomfortable symptoms will fade away if you pay attention to what you are eating and you stick to a low carb diet completed with some nutritional supplements.
But, before starting any Candida diet or any Candida treatment, you have to see a doctor to thoroughly identify the exact cause of your vaginal problems.
Candida yeast infection is the most common vaginal infection and it is usually treated with anaesthetic gels which are numbing the sore area and stops the brain from feeling the pain. Steroid cream is another common Candida treatment which has an inhibiting effect on the amount of histamine produced by the body. This histamine is the chemical responsible for the soreness and the inflammation of the area. Antibiotics, antifungal or anti-protozoal drugs represent other cures for Candida yeast infection as they go straight to the source and kill the parasite. Antidepressant amitryptiline can also be a part of your Candida treatment as it is mild painkiller which will soothe your pain during night time.
This type of treatment for your Candida yeast infection may seem a good solution, but all drugs have unpleasant and unwanted side effects. The anaesthetic gel may cause irritation and the steroid creams may cause the thinning of the vaginal walls. Antibiotics are usually weakening your immune system and antifungal drugs may cause a burning feeling to the affected area. But the anti-protozoal medicines can make you lose your appetite and even have nausea sensation. Another Candida treatment, the amityptiline may make you experience dry mouth, blurred vision and even fainting.
Therefore, you should be aware of the fact that there is another way of treating a Candida yeast infection: the so-called Candida diet. This alternative Candida treatment is working is a very simple manner. By eating mostly low carb foods you will create an environment hostile to the Candida yeast which will eventually cause its death.
But you must pay attention not to provide the yeast with the sugars and carbohydrates it needs to multiply. This is the reason why the Candida diet consists only of low carb food. So you must give up consuming sweet food like honey, fruit juices or any kind of fruits. Be careful at not having too much milk or dairy products as they contain a high amount of sugar lactose and antibiotic residues which will create the perfect environment for the multiplication of the Candida yeast.
Both Paul Rhodes & Dalvin Rumsey are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Paul Rhodes has sinced written about articles on various topics from Acne Treatment, Property Guide and Candida Infection. Sarah Rhodes suffered from chronic yeast infections for many years before finally discovering a natural, permanent cure that works. Read about Sarah and the secret that permanently cured her yeast infections at:. Paul Rhodes's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.
Dalvin Rumsey has sinced written about articles on various topics from Finances, Pets and Recreation and Sports. Learn how to deal with candida yeast infection. Find all about cdandida causes, candida diets and .. Dalvin Rumsey's top article generates over 201000 views. to your Favourites.