Yeast infections can occur in any one, man, woman, child, the elderly. Anyone can get a yeast infection because the yeast that causes the infection, Candida, actually is found on our bodies, though they prefer warm and moist areas to grow. It is when certain conditions occur that Candida’s numbers become so great in certain areas that the individual will get a yeast infection. The most common types of yeast infections are nail bed infections, vaginal infections, skin infections, diaper rash and mouth and throat infections.
Yeast infections for women are most commonly associated with vaginal yeast infections. Vaginal yeast infections can be particularly painful and its symptoms are burning, itching and discharge. Vaginal yeast infections for women can be caused by anything that may cause the vaginal environmental to alter even slightly. Menstruation, pregnancy, diabetes, sperm, steroids, and birth control can all cause vaginal yeast infections.
If your immune system is compromised or weak then you may be more prone to yeast infections. Yeast infections with a weak immune system are particularly dangerous as if they are left untreated can result in death. The yeast infection can occur in any part of your body but is easily contracted in your blood, kidneys, eyes and heart. You can also get a yeast infection in your liver, spleen and brain. If you have undergone treatment for cancer, or AIDS then you should be careful of getting a yeast infection as the possibility of getting one greatly increases.
Systemic illness from yeast infections mainly develop in about 15% of those that have weakened immune systems. The yeast can access your blood stream from cuts and needle punctures from shots, catheters and IV drips. Candida can survive in your blood stream because your medical treatment would have killed the bacteria that would control Candida, so your body no longer has a natural defense to the yeast.
An oral yeast infection, also called thrush, develop thick, white lacy patterns on the tongue, palate and anywhere else in the mouth. Most times these white patchy areas have a red base and if you scrape away the patch it may cause bleeding. Thrush can be quite painful and make it difficult to eat; it is easy for a person to become dehydrated when they have thrush.
Diaper rash and skin yeast infections occur because the outer layer of your skin is breaking down. Most of the time we do not get yeast infections on the skin because it is kept exposed and dry. However when some areas of the skin are moist, like diaper areas and in skin folds, yeast infections can occur. Skin yeast infections are red and sometimes have sharp scalloped edges and are usually associated with itching and pain.
There are many forms of treatments for yeast infections some over the counter and others prescription medication. If you use over the counter medication and the yeast infection does not go away or if it is reoccurring then you should see your doctor. Oral thrush may need a prescription medication to treat so if you notice any white, painful patches you should visit your doctor. Diaper rash and skin infections can be treated with over the counter medication. There are also many treatments available which are holistic in nature, can be done privately at home, and usually work as well as other treatments more costly.
Those with weakened immune systems need to keep close watch of any symptoms particularly if they are already undergoing treatment for a yeast infection. You need to be vigilant and frequently consult your doctor to monitor your progress and stop any major issues from occurring.
