How Does a Yeast Infection Develop?
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What Causes a Yeast Infection?
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The term yeast infection refers to a genital infection called candidiasis. Candidiasis is caused when there is an overgrowth of the fungus candida albicans. Candida albicans is normally found in moist and warm areas of the body.
People get a yeast infection often after taking oral antibiotics that kill off all the bacteria in the gut, including the friendly flora that keeps candida in check.
When the good bacteria that stops candida for overgrowing is killed, a yeast infection develops. Other causes of a yeast infection are hormonal changes and irritation to perfumed hygiene products. Both of which can change the acidic balance of the vagina. The changed acidic balance destroys the good bacteria that fight of Candida. Yeast infections can also be transmitted sexually. During intercourse with an infected person, a sexual partner can be exposed to high amounts of Candida albicans. People diabetes or compromised immune systems are more prone to getting yeast infections.
Symptoms of a Yeast Infection
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Yeast infections are more common in women than in men, but men can get them, too. Symptoms of a yeast infection can include itching, redness, irritation, burning and a white cheesy discharge in the genital area. A person may have some or all of the symptoms.
Men may not exhibit symptoms, however, in severe cases of yeast infections, blisters or sores may develop on the penis. -
Treatment
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Usually over-the-counter medications designed to treat yeast infections are sufficient. A resistant infection that does not respond to over-the-counter treatment should be treated by a physician.
A doctor may recommend that any sexual partners be treated as well, regardless of symptoms. Sometimes sexual partners transfer the infection back and forth between each other.
Taking acidophillus lactobacillus supplements and eating yogurt with that contain these same live cultures can help to increase good bacteria, which can be useful in treating yeast infections.
Acidophilus lactobacillus supplements can be purchased at health food stores. Supplementing with acidophilus and yogurt can assist the body in building good bacteria
and help stop a yeast infection.
Disclaimer
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This article is not meant to act as, diagnose or replace medical advice. This article is a general guide on yeast infections and is meant for educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is experiencing health symptoms, seek the care of a medical professional.
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