Yeast infection treatments can range from using over-the-counter drugs to natural treatments to more advanced methods.
Depending on the condition's severity, treatments for yeast infections are readily available to people who suffer from it.
Before finding the yeast infection treatments appropriate for you, it is important to first learn about the nature of this condition; its symptoms, causes and whether it can be transferred from one person to another.
Here is some helpful information that can help you deal with this quite common, but often undiagnosed condition.
Causes of a yeast infection Yeast infection, also known as Candidiasis or Candida infection, is caused by an uncontrolled growth of Candida fungi on the body.
Although this fungus is naturally found on the surfaces of human bodies, it can sometimes multiply to such a level that can lead to infection.
Yeast infections often occur in areas of the body that are warm and moist; such as the underarms, genitals, under the breast and even on the mouth.
Several other factors have also been identified which can contribute to the development of yeast infection.
For women, this can include the use of douches, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy and transfer from a sexual partner who is already infected.
People whose immune systems have been weakened due to other diseases such as diabetes, AIDS and cancer have also been found to be prone to this infection.
The use of antibiotics has also been associated with an increased predisposition to the development of a yeast infection.
Symptoms of Candidiasis Vaginal yeast infection can produce signs such as itching, a burning feeling during urination, and production of white discharge that can smell like bread and even cause pain during sexual intercourse.
For male sufferers, red sores appearing at the foreskin or the head of the penis are some of the more common symptoms.
Men might also experience itching and a burning sensation, particularly when urinating.
Oral yeast infections, on the other hand, can manifest itself through the appearance of white patches that appear like milk curds on the tongue.
Also known as thrush, oral Candidiasis is more often found on infants.
Treatments for yeast infections The treatments for yeast infections depend on where it occurs and on the level of its severity.
The most common treatments for yeast infections are topical anti-fungals (creams and suppositories), such as miconazole (MONISTAT), nystatin, ketoconazole and clotrimazole (LOTRIMIN, MYCELEX.
) Fluconazole (DIFULCAN), and Itraconazole (SPORANOX),oral medications, are sometimes recommended for vaginal yeast infections, although not with infection types that occur in other parts of the body.
For severe cases, stronger medications are recommended by physicians.
This can include amphotericin B and voriconazole.
For pregnant women, yeast infection treatments should not be used without the expressed recommendation of a doctor since some of these medications can have adverse effects on the mother and the unborn baby.
HIV patients should always seek their doctor's advice for this health matter, as some treatments mentioned may have no effect at all.
The methods of treating a yeast infection will differ from one person to another and will depend on which part of the body is affected and on how severe the condition is.
Above all, these treatments for yeast infections should be used only after consulting a doctor.