Yeast Infection

• What is Yeast Infection?
• What causes Yeast Infection?
• What are the first signs of Yeast Infection?
• What are the types of Yeast Infection?
• How is Yeast Infection diagnosed?
• What are Yeast Infection symptoms?
• What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?
• How do you get a yeast infection?
• What is the main cause of yeast infection?
• Can a yeast infection go away on its own?
• How to treat a yeast infection?
• Do yeast infections smell?

Yeast Infection

A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of the Candida yeast. This type of infection is most found in women but can also affect men and children. Symptoms of a yeast infection can include itching, burning, redness, and soreness in the affected area, as well as a thick, white discharge. Yeast infections can be treated with over the counter or prescription antifungal medications, as well as lifestyle changes such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding tight-fitting clothing. If you suspect you have a yeast infection, it is best to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Yeast Infection definition

A yeast infection is a type of fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the Candida yeast. It is most found in the vaginal area in women, but can also occur in the mouth, throat, and other areas of the body. Symptoms can include itching, burning, redness, and soreness in the affected area, as well as a thick, white discharge. Yeast infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including antibiotics, hormonal changes, and weakened immune systems. They can be treated with antifungal medications and by making lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Yeast Infection causes.

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. Candida is a type of yeast that is naturally present in lesser amounts in the human body but can overgrow and cause an infection when the balance of bacteria in the body is disrupted.

Some common causes of yeast infections include:

• Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can kill off beneficial bacteria that keep Candida levels in check, allowing the fungus to overgrow.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills, can make a woman more susceptible to yeast infections.
• Weak immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or AIDS, or those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, are more prone to yeast infections.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can make it easier for yeast to grow.
• Diet: Consuming too much sugar, alcohol, or caffeine can promote the growth of yeast in the body.
• Genetics: Some people are more susceptible to yeast infections due to their genetic makeup.

It is also important to note that yeast infections can also be sexually transmitted and can be acquired via sexual contact.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a yeast infection, as they will be able to diagnose and treat the infection properly.

Yeast Infection symptoms

The symptoms of a yeast infection can vary depending on the location of the infection. Common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

• Itching, burning, or redness in the vaginal area
• Swelling or soreness of the vulva
• Pain or discomfort during sex or while urinating
• A thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge

Symptoms of a yeast infection in men can include:

• Itching, burning, or redness on the tip of the penis or foreskin
• Soreness, redness, or rash on the penis or foreskin
• Discharge from the penis
• Pain or discomfort during sex or while urinating

Symptoms of a yeast infection in the mouth (oral thrush) can include:

• White, creamy-looking patches on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, or on the roof of the mouth.
• Redness or soreness in the affected area
• Loss of taste or difficulty swallowing

Symptoms of yeast infections in other parts of the body, such as the skin or nails, can include:

• Itching, redness, or soreness in the affected area
• Scaling or cracking of the skin
• Foul-smelling discharge

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and it is best to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Yeast Infection testing

There are several ways to test for a yeast infection, depending on the location of the infection.

For vaginal yeast infections, a healthcare professional will typically perform a pelvic examination and take a sample of the vaginal discharge for laboratory analysis. The sample is examined under a microscope to look for the presence of the Candida fungus. A pH test may also be done to check for an overgrowth of yeast.

For men, a healthcare professional may examine the penis and foreskin for signs of redness, itching, or discharge. They may also take a sample of the discharge for laboratory analysis.

For oral thrush, a healthcare professional may scrape off a small sample of the affected area and examine it under a microscope.

For yeast infections in other parts of the body, such as the skin or nails, a healthcare professional may take a sample of the affected area for laboratory analysis.

It is also important to note that some people may have yeast infections without any symptoms, so testing may be recommended for people who are at elevated risk of developing the infection.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a yeast infection, as they will be able to diagnose and treat the infection properly.

Vaginal yeast infection

A vaginal yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a common type of fungal infection that occurs when the Candida yeast overgrows in the vaginal area. It is the most common type of vaginal infection.

Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can include:

• Itching, burning, or redness in the vaginal area
• Swelling or soreness of the vulva
• Pain or discomfort during sex or while urinating
• A thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
• In some cases, there may be little to no symptoms at all.

A vaginal yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be contracted through sexual contact. Risk factors for developing a vaginal yeast infection include:

• Antibiotic use
• Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills.
• Weak immune system
• Diabetes
• Diet high in sugar or processed foods
• Use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.

Vaginal yeast infections can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional during a pelvic examination and by taking a sample of the vaginal discharge for laboratory analysis. The sample is examined under a microscope to look for the presence of the Candida fungus. A pH test may also be done to check for an overgrowth of yeast.

Vaginal yeast infections can be treated with over the counter or prescription antifungal medications, as well as lifestyle changes such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding tight-fitting clothing. It is important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a yeast infection, as they will be able to diagnose and treat the infection properly.

Yeast infection discharge

A thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge is a common symptom of a vaginal yeast infection. The discharge is caused by the overgrowth of the Candida yeast in the vaginal area. It is usually odorless and does not cause itching or burning. However, if the discharge is accompanied by a strong odor or causes discomfort, it is important to see a healthcare professional as it may be caused by an infection other than a yeast infection.

It is important to note that not all vaginal discharge is a symptom of a yeast infection. Discharge that is clear, watery, or thin and does not have a strong odor is considered normal and is a healthy way for your body to remove bacteria and dead cells from the vagina.

If you suspect you have a yeast infection, it is best to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your healthcare professional may take a sample of the discharge for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of the Candida yeast.

It is also important to remember that yeast infections can be recurrent, so it is important to practice good hygiene and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Vaginal yeast infection treatments

Treatment options for a vaginal yeast infection include both over the counter and prescription medications, as well as lifestyle changes.

Over-the-counter treatments:

• Antifungal creams and suppositories: These are applied directly to the vaginal area to treat the infection. Examples include miconazole (Monistat), clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin), and tioconazole (Vagistat-1).
• Antifungal ointments: These are applied to the affected area to relieve itching and burning. Examples include clotrimazole and nystatin.

Prescription treatments:

• Oral antifungal medications: These are taken by mouth to treat more severe infections or those that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments. Examples include fluconazole (Diflucan) and terconazole (Terazol).
• Topical antifungal medications: These are applied directly to the affected area to treat the infection. Examples include butoconazole (Gynazole-1) and nystatin cream.

Lifestyle changes:

• Maintaining good hygiene: Washing the vaginal area with mild soap and warm water and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can help reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoiding irritants: Avoiding products that can irritate the vaginal area, such as harsh soaps, douches, and scented sanitary products can help reduce the risk of infection.
• Eating a healthy diet: Consuming a diet that is low in sugar and processed foods can help reduce the risk of infection.
• Managing underlying conditions: Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes can help reduce the risk of infection.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a yeast infection, as they will be able to diagnose and treat the infection properly. They can also help you identify the underlying cause of the infection and suggest ways to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Male yeast infection

A male yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the Candida yeast. While yeast infections are more common in women, men can also be affected.

Symptoms of a male yeast infection can include:

• Itching, burning, or redness on the tip of the penis or foreskin
• Soreness, redness, or rash on the penis or foreskin
• Discharge from the penis
• Pain or discomfort during sex or while urinating
• In some cases, there may be little to no symptoms at all.

A yeast infection in men is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be contracted through sexual contact. Risk factors for developing a male yeast infection include:

• Antibiotic use
• Weak immune system
• Diabetes
• Diet high in sugar or processed foods
• Use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.

A healthcare professional may diagnose a male yeast infection by examining the penis and foreskin for signs of redness, itching, or discharge. They may also take a sample of the discharge for laboratory analysis.

Treatment options for a male yeast infection include over-the-counter antifungal creams or ointments, such as clotrimazole or terbinafine, and prescription oral antifungal medications, such as fluconazole or itraconazole. In addition, practicing good hygiene, avoiding irritants, eating a healthy diet, and managing underlying conditions can help reduce the risk of reinfection.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a yeast infection, as they will be able to diagnose and treat the infection properly.

Penile yeast infection

A penile yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by the yeast Candida. Symptoms can include redness, itching, and discomfort on the penis, as well as a white, thick discharge. Yeast infections are more common in men who are not circumcised, have a weakened immune system, or have diabetes. The infection can be treated with antifungal medication, which can be applied topically or taken orally. It is important to practice good hygiene to prevent the infection from recurring.

Yeast infection home treatment

There are several home remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms of a penile yeast infection.

• Keep the affected area clean and dry: Wearing loose-fitting clothes and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can help prevent moisture from accumulating and create an environment for yeast to grow.
• Over-the-counter antifungal creams: These creams can be applied directly to the affected area to help clear up the infection.
• Garlic: Garlic has natural antifungal properties and may help reduce the growth of yeast. It can be taken orally or applied topically.
• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has been found to have antifungal properties and may be effective in treating yeast infections.
• Yogurt: Eating yogurt or applying it topically to the affected area may help reduce the growth of yeast.

It is important to note that home remedies may not be effective for everyone and If symptoms persist or worsen after trying these remedies, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Also, if it is the first time you are experiencing symptoms it is important to be sure it is a yeast infection, as symptoms can be like other conditions and a proper diagnosis is needed to ensure proper treatment.

Natural treatment for yeast infection

There are several natural remedies that may be effective in treating yeast infection. Some of the most used natural remedies include:

• Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of bacteria in the body and may help reduce the growth of yeast. They can be taken in supplement form or found in fermented foods such as yogurt or kefir.
• Coconut oil: Coconut oil has been found to have antimicrobial properties and may be effective in treating yeast infections when applied topically.
• Garlic: Garlic has natural antifungal properties and may help reduce the growth of yeast. It can be taken orally or applied topically.
• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has been found to have antifungal properties and may be effective in treating yeast infections.
• Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can help balance the pH level in the body and may help reduce the growth of yeast. It can be taken orally or applied topically.

It is important to note that natural remedies may not be effective for everyone and if symptoms persist or worsen after trying these remedies, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Also, if it is the first time you are experiencing symptoms it is important to be sure it is a yeast infection, as symptoms can be like other conditions and a proper diagnosis is needed to ensure proper treatment.

Sex with yeast infection

It is not recommended to have sexual intercourse when you or your partner have a yeast infection. Yeast infections can be passed back and forth between partners during sexual contact, and sexual intercourse can further irritate the affected area and prolong the healing process.

If both partners have a yeast infection, it is important to wait until both have completed treatment before engaging in sexual activity. Even if one partner is symptom-free, they may still carry the infection and can pass it back and forth.

If only one partner has a yeast infection, it is important to use condoms or dental dams to prevent the spread of the infection. Additionally, it is important to avoid sexual activity if there are any symptoms of a yeast infection, such as itching, burning, and redness, until the infection has been treated and symptoms have resolved.

If the symptoms persist or worsen after trying home remedies, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can accurately diagnose and provide an appropriate treatment.

Yeast Infection diet

Diet can play a role in preventing and managing yeast infections. The following dietary recommendations may help reduce the risk of developing a yeast infection or help alleviate symptoms:

• Reduce sugar intake: Yeast thrives on sugar, so reducing the amount of sugar in your diet can help reduce the growth of yeast.
• Increase intake of probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of bacteria in the body and may help reduce the growth of yeast. They can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt or kefir or taken in supplement form.
• Increase intake of non-starchy vegetables: Eating a diet high in non-starchy vegetables, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower, can help improve gut health and reduce the growth of yeast.
• Avoid processed foods: Processed foods are high in sugar and preservatives, which can contribute to yeast overgrowth.
• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut and may contribute to yeast overgrowth.
• Avoid foods that you are sensitive to: Some people may be sensitive to certain foods, such as gluten or dairy, which can contribute to yeast overgrowth.

It is important to note that diet alone is not enough to prevent or treat yeast infections. It is also important to practice good hygiene, use appropriate antibiotics and other medications when needed. A healthy diet can be a good complementary measure.

Yeast Infection medication

There are several medications that can be used to treat a yeast infection. The most common medications include:

• Topical antifungal creams: These creams can be applied directly to the affected area to help clear up the infection. Examples include clotrimazole (Canesten), miconazole (Monistat) and terconazole.
• Oral antifungal pills: These pills are taken by mouth and can be effective in treating severe or recurrent yeast infections. Examples include fluconazole (Diflucan) and itraconazole (Sporanox).
• Vaginal suppositories: These are inserted into the vagina and can be effective in treating vaginal yeast infections. Examples include butoconazole (Gynazole-1), miconazole (Monistat 3) and terconazole (Terazol 3).

It is important to follow the instructions on the medication package and to complete the full course of treatment even if the symptoms disappear. Stopping treatment early can lead to the yeast infection returning. Also, you should not use over-the-counter antifungal medication without consulting a healthcare professional first, as some can have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking.

If symptoms persist or worsen after trying over-the-counter medications, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can accurately diagnose and provide an appropriate treatment.

Yeast Infection supplements

There are several supplements that may be helpful in preventing and treating yeast infections. Some of the most used supplements include:

• Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of bacteria in the body and may help reduce the growth of yeast. They can be taken in supplement form and can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt or kefir.
• Garlic: Garlic has natural antifungal properties and may help reduce the growth of yeast.
• Caprylic acid: Caprylic acid is a fatty acid that may help reduce the growth of yeast. It can be taken in supplement form.
• Oil of Oregano: Oregano oil has been found to have antifungal properties and may be effective in treating yeast infections. It should be diluted before applying it to the skin or taken as a supplement.
• Olive leaf extract: Olive leaf extract has been found to have antifungal properties and may be effective in treating yeast infections. It can be taken in supplement form.

It is important to note that supplements should not be used as a replacement for prescribed medication. It is also important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement, especially if you are taking any other medication, have a chronic condition or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is Yeast Syndrome?

Despite common efforts to avoid bacteria and other microbes, our bodies are naturally teeming with microorganisms. As soon as we are born, we begin to accumulate these harmless microorganisms, which play a protective role in the body. By occupying parts of our bodies that microorganisms naturally like to grow in, such as the mouth, the intestines, and the skin, these harmless microorganisms prevent the pathogens from moving in and taking over. Some microorganisms play additional roles in the body, such as the bacteria that inhabit the various parts of our gastrointestinal tracts. These bacteria can help us digest food, converting it to nutrients the body can use and synthesizing vitamins, such as vitamin K and folic acid. All these helpful bacteria that live in and on us are often referred to as our normal flora.

If something happens to remove our normal flora, this uninhabited microbial environment, or niche, may be invaded by a pathogenic microorganism. For example, antibiotics often kill our normal flora in addition to the pathogens they are designed to attack. It is quite common for people to then get yeast infections, as the yeast microorganism, Candida albicans, may infect and proliferate in that open niche faster than their own normal flora can recolonize. These are called opportunistic infections and are why people on antibiotics are often encouraged to eat yogurt. Natural yogurt contains live cultures of various species of Lactobacillus, a friendly species of bacteria that normally lives in the intestinal tract and the vagina. Women very frequently suffer from vaginal yeast infections following antibiotic treatments if they do not help their bacteria recolonize through such "probiotic" treatments. If a yeast infection does occur, it can be treated with anti-fungal drugs, which will kill the yeast but leave the bacteria intact.

Normally, any invading microorganisms stay confined to their niche, but if a person is in a weakened immune state or if there are other imbalances in the normal flora, the invader may progress to other places in the body. If yeast infection spreads such that the microorganisms colonize the intestinal tract, for example, this can lead the numerous symptoms, which make up the systemic disease known as yeast syndrome.

Some of the same conditions that can put a person at risk for yeast infection can also predispose them to developing yeast syndrome. Repeated courses of antibiotics, for example, may hinder the body’s normal flora as it recolonizes the intestines. More than twenty weeks of antibiotics during the lifetime or four courses of antibiotic treatments within one year can significantly increase the chances of yeast syndrome. Excessive sugars and refined carbohydrates also seem to contribute to the incidence of yeast syndrome. This disorder is also commonly associated with the use of hormone-based medications, including fertility drugs and oral contraceptives. Prednisone and other steroid treatments may also put a person at risk. Naturally, any immune compromised person is at risk for opportunistic infection of microorganisms, including yeast.

Conventional Treatment of Yeast Syndrome

While normal yeast infections are treated commonly using anti-fungal medications, yeast syndrome as a collective disorder is not currently recognized by the medical community. Considered a fad illness, most medical doctors will neither investigate nor design a treatment plan specific to yeast syndrome, as they do not consider it to be a valid diagnosis.

Patients Medical’s Treatment of Yeast Syndrome

Patients Medical offers a very carefully designed yeast syndrome treatment plan that is specific to your symptoms and the levels of yeast that you are harboring within your body. Treatment for Yeast Syndrome at Patients Medical includes:

• Highly specialized testing: Before your treatment begins, we will first culture a stool specimen to measure the amount of the yeast Candida albicans that your body is dealing with. This will also allow us to test the particular yeast strain that you are infected with for suitable anti-fungal candidates if it becomes necessary. We can continue to monitor your yeast levels in this manner throughout the treatment.
  We will also take a blood sample to examine the levels of IgA, IgM, and IgG, which are antibodies produced by the immune system. Elevation of these antibodies suggests that your body is mounting an immune response against the invading yeast, which can also make you feel terrible, as though you are battling an illness. This diagnostic can also be performed later in the treatment to ensure that your program is working for you.
• Modified diet plans: The first step is to design a modified diet for you that will starve the yeast that is living in your gut. Yeast thrives on sugars, fermented food, and additional yeast. You will need to avoid all sugary foods, fruits, fruit juices, dried fruit, alcoholic beverages, bread, cheese, vinegar, and soy sauce. Some of the recommended foods include fish, poultry, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and selected whole grains. Natural yogurt containing live cultures is recommended if milk is tolerated.
  Butter is acceptable for inclusion of oils in the diet, as are olive, flaxseed, sunflower, and sesame oils.
• Anti-fungal: The starvation of yeast through modification of your diet will begin to reduce its numbers within your system. The second step is to diminish the amount of yeast present. This is done primarily through the ingestion of nystatin, a potent anti-fungal drug which will kill the yeast in the gastrointestinal tract. Because this drug is not absorbed well through the intestinal wall, it will simply serve to clear the yeast from your GI tract. There are also natural inhibitors of yeast grown that may also aid in reducing your yeast levels. Garlic capsules may be taken (if low blood pressure is not an issue), as can caprylic acid, a natural component of coconut oil. These natural remedies may not necessarily kill the yeast directly, but they may diminish its growth to help reduce overall levels within your GI tract. The colon should be cleared every few days to help rid the body of the yeast, aided by colonic irrigation if necessary.
• Restoration of flora: The final phase of your yeast treatment will involve restoring the normal flora of the GI tract through the introduction of such probiotics as acidophilus and bifidus. These friendly bacteria will colonize and grow in your GI tract and can be taken concentrated in pill form. By restoring your intestinal flora back to normal, you will once again return to healthy digestion and be rid of the discomforts of yeast syndrome.
• Natural Supplements: Supplements may be suggested to be sure that your overall quality of health remains as high as possible while your body undergoes this transition. Many vitamins, including vitamin A, C, and beta-carotene can potentially boost your immunity to help the body aid in the elimination of the yeast. Antioxidants, germanium, and other supplements may also help boost your immunity to support your immune system as it works to clear the invading infectious microorganisms. Essential fatty acids and natural oils, such as garlic oil, fish oil, and thyme oil, can also help improve metabolism, reduce yeast growth, and rebalance the GI tract.

Next Steps For Supplement Therapy:

To order these supplements, please click on the supplement picture on the right side of this page to go to our shopping cart. Or call 1-212-794-8800 to place an order.

Begin Your Journey to Wellness with Patients Medical

Our job at Patients Medical is to connect the dots between a patient's medical history, symptoms, and their underlying causes. Patients Medical is a superb place for people to secure integrative and holistic health care from providers who give personalized care, partner with the patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.

For those that can make the journey, we are happy to welcome new patients to our medical center in New York City. Fill out the form at the top of this page, or call us at 1-212-794-8800. We are here to listen and to help.

We are located at: Patients Medical PC, 1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128.