What Are the Main Symptoms of Yeast Infections?

All symptoms of yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of the yeast species Candida on your skin or in your G.I. tract. Candida is naturally found on all humans, whether you are a baby, man, women or the elderly. Candida is on your skin right now but you don’t know it because bacteria and other factors are keeping its growth in check. Basically if you are healthy, then the Candida will not overgrow and produce symptoms of yeast infection.

The most common areas for yeast to grow are in warm, moist areas such as in the mouth, genitals, behind the knees and elbows, in the underarms and in skin folds. Babies tend to get symptoms of thrush infection in the mouth and in the diaper area. The most common types of thrush infections include diaper rash, oral thrush, vaginal infections and nail bed infections. Men have the same chance of developing infection as women.

Generally adults will have a greater chance of developing yeast infections as they age. The vast majority of these yeast infections form Candida are around the dentures, nail beds and in skin folds. In very rare cases a yeast infection can become systemic and spread through the entire body. Recurring symptoms of yeast infections can be a sign of a more serious condition such as leukemia, AIDS or diabetes.

You can develop a Candidiasis infection while taking antibiotics because the antibiotics kill off the good bacteria that live in your body that regulate yeast growth. The antibiotics are actually promoting yeast growth by changing your body’s environment. Steroids and birth control can also change the body’s chemistry so that yeast have a greater chance of developing which is why women are more prone to developing infections.

It is important to be aware of the symptoms of yeast infection so that you can begin treatment immediately. A vaginal yeast infection is associated with white vaginal discharge, burning, irritation, itching and sometimes pain during sex. If you have thrush, then you can notice white patches in your throat and mouth that are surrounded by red. You may experience pain when eating or drinking.

Infections that occur inside the body and occur because of a weakened immune system can cause problems with the function of those infected organs as well as pain. You can even get a yeast infection in the blood stream and this is very dangerous as it then has the potential to spread to the brain which can cause brain damage and impair brain function.

For infections on your skin and nail beds, there are many over the counter medications that will quickly and easily treat the infection. If you are using over the counter medication, and it is not having any effect, you should visit your doctor. Also, thrush requires antifungals, which need to be prescribed by a doctor. If your infection keeps coming back, then you may have other health issues and should see an experienced Candida doctor immediately.

The vast majority of individuals will not need hospital treatment for their Candida infection. Some individuals with thrush may become severely dehydrated and require a stay in the hospital. If you have an infection, as well as a fever, chills, abdominal pain and vomiting, then there is a likelihood you have a more serious infection as well, and you should seek medical attention.

There are many symptoms of yeast infections that both men and women can show and the best way for finding a cure is to find a doctor who has had experience successfully treating patients who have had Candida infections in the past. As a general warning, be cautious if the doctor wants to prescribe broad spectrum antibiotics for treatment as these will likely only make matters worse.