One of the many organisms that lives on the human body is Candida Albicans which is found on and in about eighty percent of the human population. Thrush can be found in several areas including the colon, vagina, stomach, throat, mouth and rectum. Under normal conditions Candida Albicans doesn't cause any problems but an overgrowth of this bacteria can lead to a thrush infection or candidiasis.

A thrush infection is not a serious problem, but major discomfort can result if it is left untreated. It can also lead to a much more serious condition if it left untreated which is why anyone suspecting they have a thrush infection should visit a doctor for medical advice right away. Persistent thrush should especially be seen to by a doctor and never ignored.

Signs And Symptoms

Since visiting a doctor when you have a thrush infection is important you will want to know the signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for. Having white creamy patches in the mouth is the most common sign of an oral thrush infection. In addition those with an oral thrush infection may have red spots in their mouth, crusts forming at the corner of their mouths and difficulties swallowing.

A vaginal thrush infection is most commonly recognized by a discharge that looks like cottage cheese. Often this discharge will be accompanied by burning and itching in the vaginal area. The lips of the vagina may also swell and become red with tenderness when touched. Women are the main sufferers of thrush and about seventy-five percent of women will have a thrush infection at least once in their lives.

Prevention

So how can you avoid getting a thrush infection? A normal amount of yeast is important to have good vaginal health, but there are other ways you can prevent a thrush infection from occurring. Limiting sugar intakes can be the most beneficial to preventing a thrush infection since it thrives on sugar. You can also prevent the recurrence of a thrush infection by eating a low sugar diet if you have persistent infections. You also want to allow the infected area to breath by wearing cotton undergarments, pants and skirts and make sure you clothing is loose fitting.

It is best not to use over the counter medication in an attempt for self treatment since some antibiotics and other medications can make the infection worse. Before trying any kind of medical treatment it is best to seek the advice of a medical doctor. If the infection persists it is very important that you revisit your doctor so that he or she may carry out further tests to examine wether there is another cause for your continued ailment.