What is Yeast Infection?
Yeast infection is one of the most common, yet dreaded health problems. Also known as Candidiasis, this infection usually affects women, and also men to a smaller extent. In women, Candidiasis affects the vagina, and the infection is caused by a fungus of the Candida species (Candida albicans to be more specific). This fungus, Candida albicans exists naturally in the vagina. When the fungus starts multiplying uncontrollably, it causes swelling in the vulva and vagina, resulting in the infection (also called vaginal thrush).
All women are susceptible to this virus, but diabetic women, pregnant women and women who have a generally weak immune system are more susceptible to vaginal thrush. Women in the age-group of 30-50 are at a greater risk of this infection than those in other age-groups. The biggest problem with this fungus is that once it affects you, it can recur later and hence inflict similar troubles on you. Problems caused by the infection include pain, itching and a burning feeling while urinating. Some women also experience vaginal discharge.
Some of the most common symptoms of Candidiasis are:
- Cracks in vaginal walls
- Vaginal discharge, which is odorless
- Itching of vulva
- Sores around the genital region
- Dysuria (pain and discomfort during urination)
- Reddening of vulva and/or vagina
- Inflammation around the vagina
- Irritation and soreness around the genitals
- White and watery vaginal discharge with pus (purulent)
- Superficial dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse)
What are the factors which cause the fungus Candida albicans to multiply rapidly, and hence lead to vaginal thrush?
- Diabetes: If levels of diabetes are not controlled, you run a very high risk of suffering from this infection.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, your body undergoes many hormonal changes. These hormonal instabilities lead to multiplication of the Candida fungus, thus causing yeast infection.
- Weakened immune system: If you have a weak immune system (for example if you have HIV/AIDS or are a recipient of chemotherapy), the chances of inviting this infection increase.
- Antibiotics: If you take antibiotic medicines regularly, you become more susceptible to developing thrush. According to a survey, approximately 30 percent of women who take intra-vaginal antibiotics develop Candidiasis.
- Oral Sex: A member of the Candida species of fungus resides in the mouth. Thus, if you indulge in oral sex, there are chances that you may relay the virus on to your genitals and thus develop thrushes.
- Contraceptives: Studies suggest that oral contraceptives also increase the chance of thrush.
If you are suffering from Candidiasis, what can you do to ease the pain?
- Avoid using latex condoms
- Avoid lubricants
- Avoid using vaginal deodorants, douches, shower-gels and perfumes soaps on the infected area. Use only water to wash that area.
- Avoid spermicidal crams
- Do not wear tight fitting clothes or synthetic clothes. You can wear cotton innerwear.
Visit a doctor if you have developed yeast infection. A 1-3 day course of antifungal medicine should cure the infection. However, if the symptoms are severe, you may have to go for a longer course.
