Yeast Infection (Candidiasis) - A Reading of This Disease

Yeast Infection (Candidiasis) or thrush is a fungal infection caused by yeast like fungus called Candida albicans. Other known names of it are candidosis, moniliasis and oidiomycosis. This is quite a common disease among human beings. It can infect mouth, skin, vagina, skin, stomach and urinary tract. More than 75% women suffer from it during a lifetime while 90% AIDS/HIV infected patients develop candida infections. ‘Thrush’ is a common infection among infants, elderly people and those with a weak immune system. In a recent survey it has been found that 8 out of every1 lakh people are diagnosed with candidiasis and more than 24,000 of them annually. Mucous membranes, skin, pharynx or esophagus, gastrointestinal tract, urinary bladder or genitals are the most common areas of infection.

The causes of it are several and vary from individual to individual. Their germs are commonly present in humans and are directly related to the immune system. One of the most common causes of it is the problem of an unstable or weak immune system. They are found in abundance in the intestinal flora. Diabetes and antibiotics are also some of the common causes of this disease. Antibiotics can flare them up leading to more severe problems. Approximately 15% people with weak immunity become vulnerable to it at some point of time.

Oral Yeast Infection (Candidiasis) is frequent among those who binge on carbohydrate rich food; hormonal replacement therapy and infertility treatments are also predisposing factors. Glycerin induced lubricants and oral contraceptives also play a part in flaring up of this infection. Obesity, bacterial infection and psoriasis are few factors which play their parts in catching Yeast Infection (Candidiasis). There are myriad signs and symptoms regarding it. Creamy whit patches in mouth or throat, painful cracks in the corners of mouth, blisters, skin rashes between fingers and toes, under breasts and groin are some of the most common areas affected by these symptoms. Many patients have bouts during the disease and its occurrence happens due to a strong immune system.

Normally all symptoms vary depending on the area infected, the time period and its severity. Burning, itching, sores and irritation are results of vaginal infection. These symptoms are also present in ‘bacterial vaginosis’. Diagnosis of it is done through microscopic examination or culturing. A drop of potassium hydroxide is added to the specimen which helps in determining the growth of yeast cells. The treatment for this disease is also available easily. Antifungal drugs are commonly used to treat it. Local treatments include vaginal suppositories and medicated douches. Albicans can develop resistance to antimycotic drugs. It is very important to take advice of a doctor before heading on for any kind of medication.

Many cases have been found where women self-medicate and make themselves even more vulnerable to the disease. People who suffer life threatening conditions due to candidiasis or a weak immune system are prescribed intravenous injections and strong drugs if required. Homeopathy in such a case doesn’t provide much of a relief because e of its severity. The resistance to it also depends on the will power of a patient and constitution of a body. Last but not the least it is quite imperative that treatment for it isn’t a child’s play. The cure can take a long time depending on its condition when the treatment starts. Therefore people need to be cautious about their health at every point of time.