Candida infections are yeast (fungal) infections that can affect your skin, genitals, mouth and throat. In addition, a systemic candida infection can be serious, requiring immediate treatment.
Cause
Candida is a fungus that is present in your genital area, mouth and digestive tract. It is typically kept under control by the "good" bacteria that exist in your body. Antibiotics and a weakened immune system are two causes of a change in the balance between the bacteria and he fungus, resulting in a candida infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include itching, irritation and a thick white discharge, according to eMedicinehealth. Candida infection in the mouth is called thrush (most common in babies) and is exhibited by a white coating on the inside of the mouth that is painful. Candida infections on the skin appear as red, itchy patches that may also be painful.
Diagnosis
Your doctor may be able to diagnose a candida infection simply by examination. However, in cases of systemic infections, you doctor will need to take cultures of blood and urine specimens to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The Food and Drug Administration indicates that vaginal yeast infections may be treated with over-the-counter medications such as Monistat, Vagistat, Femstat and Gyne-Lotrimin. Thrush is treated with an anti-fungal mouth wash. Clotrimazole creams and ointments are used for surface skin rashes. Systemic infections may require intravenous antibiotics.
Prevention
Yogurt and probiotics (such as lactobacillus acidophilus) can increase your levels of "good" bacteria. In addition, herbal supplements that may boost your immune system or inhibit fungal infections include goldenseal, lactoferrin, tea tree oil and garlic.
Considerations
If you have never experienced a yeast infection, do not attempt to diagnose it yourself. See your doctor for confirmation and a recommendation for treatment. Consult your doctor before adding any herbal supplements to your diet.
Tags: candida infection, Candida infections, fungal infections, good bacteria, herbal supplements, immune system