Common Yeast Infections

The scientific name for a thrush infection is Candidiasis. Yeast can be found throughout the human body and is particularly prevalent in the mouth, abdomen, armpits, nail beds and any other parts of the body where the skin folds.

In women, yeast is most commonly found under the breasts and in the vagina, and this is perfectly normal. However if the yeast levels within the body increase beyond usual normal levels, this will lead to the development of a yeast infection.

The over production of yeast within the body is causes by the fungus Candida Albicans, which is found in moist areas of the body. There are multiple symptoms of thrush infections, however one of the most common is a severe itching on the affected area.

Yeast infections do not just affect women, infact many men and even children will be affected by a yeast infection at some stage of their lives. Some common forms of yeast infections are vaginal yeast infections, Oral Thrush, diaper rashes and nail bed infections.

Vaginal Yeast Infection

The most commonly found form of yeast infection in women is the vaginal yeast infection. This is caused by abnormal excessive yeast growth within the vagina, and it leads to vaginal itching, burning and a creamy discharge. Vaginal yeast infections can be induced as a result of taking medication such as antibiotics and steroids, but can also be encouraged by pregnancy, sperm, diabetes and the taking of birth control pills. Vaginal yeast infections are also more common in women post menopause.

Women suffering from a vaginal yeast infection will often notice a white cheesy discharge from the vagina accompanied by a severe itching and/or burning sensation. Many women will also find that urination and/or sexual intercourse can be very painful.

Oral Thrush

Oral Thrush is a yeast infection within the mouth. Causes of Oral Thrush can be taking medication such as anti inflammatory medicine, antibiotics and birth control pills. Oral thrush is more common in smokers or those with ill fitting dentures. Babies can also contract oral thrush from breastfeeding. Oral thrush can also be the sign of a more serious underlying medical condition such as HIV.

Symptoms of oral thrush include small white creamy lumps that appear in the mouth. These can usually be scratched off, but can then sting and become painful. Other symptoms can range from finding swallowing difficult to a severe fever, this may indicate that the infection has spread to the throat.

Diaper Rash

Diaper Rashes can also be as a direct result of a yeast infection. They are most commonly found in babies and infants under the age of 24 months. The candida fungus thrives in the moist habitat where the diaper meets the skin, resulting in bright red blotches on the skin. As with other forms of yeast infection, the taking of antibiotics can encourage the excessive production of yeast.

Nail bed Infections

Yeast infections can also be found underneath your nails. These are again are caused excessive yeast production caused by taking antibioicts and other medications but are more common in people who’s hands are frequently wet. They can also be caused as a result of a badly done manicure.

Nail bed infections can be very painful, causing the area around the nail to appear swollen and red. In extreme cases the nail may lift and separate from the, causing the nail bed to turn a yellowy white color.

Visit Yeast Infection No More to learn about the root causes of yeast infections and how you can help your body to naturally beat them.