Candida albicans growing on Sabouraud agar (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Yeast infections are most commonly associated with a vaginal infection in women, known as Thrush. Unfortunately it happens to most women at some stage during their life time. It’s infamous for the irritation and discomfort it can cause and it can also be a real pain to get rid of. It’s common to have a re-occurrence of the infection once you’ve had it before and if you have had one you’ll know how stressful they can be -let’s face it, no one wants one!
It is imperative that if you have a yeast infection, then you endeavour to get rid of it properly, because if not treated then it can lead to systemic candida and various other complex and seemingly unrelated symptoms that include headaches, fatigue, depression, insomnia, bloating, constipation and other digestive problems, skin problems, joint and muscles problems, plus more. This condition takes much longer to eradicate as it becomes more entrenched in the body.
How do I know I have a candida yeast infection or thrush?
- Itching, burning or soreness around the entrance of the vagina
- Possibly a burning sensation when you urinate
- A thick, white discharge, not unlike cottage cheese
- Discomfort during intercourse
If a light yellow to dark yellow discharge is present accompanied by an unpleasant, possibly offensive smell, and some itching and burning, it is most likely you have something called Bacterial Vaginosis. In this situation then you should see your doctor because it can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, and this sometimes leads to infertility.
Why would I get a yeast infection?
Yeast thrives in the body in warm and moist environments. This opportunistic condition combined with several other factors can make you more susceptible to Thrush. Antibiotics can compromise our immune system, killing good bacteria that are needed to fight the yeast, along with bad bacteria. Oral contraceptives contribute to vulnerability to thrush, as do vaginal douches. It is important to be aware that stress weakens the immune system, so find whys to lower your stress levels, like meditation, yoga and exercise. Consuming excess sugar in your diet feeds the yeast, so be aware that if you have constant sugar cravings this could be why. Pregnancy also increases chances of developing Thrush because of the changes in hormones that occur.
Can I avoid getting one?
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid refined sugar and carbohydrates where possible.
- Add natural yoghurt containing lactobacillus acidophilus to your diet, to help prevent yeast in your body from multiplying to adverse amounts.
- Wear cotton fabrics, not silk or nylon
- Avoid tight fitting clothing.
- Avoid using soaps, shower gels or bubble baths that are perfumed or contain a lot of chemicals.
How can I treat my thrush?
Anti-fungals and over the counter medications and pessaries are available at pharmacies. Be aware that sometimes these have side-effects. There are also some home remedies for yeast infections that you can try:
Coconut Oil:
Is effective at killing yeast and parasites. Available in tablet form but the best way is Organic virgin coconut oil take orally.
Oil of Oregano:
This useful oil not only prevents and cures candida but that also attacks mutated strains of candida as well. Oil of oregano is a strong antiseptic, with antifungal properties. Available in tablet form or as an oil.
Tree tea oil:
A powerful natural antiseptic with anti-fungal properties that helps control a yeast infection. Dilute it first – it can cause inflammation if applied directly onto the skin. You can dilute a few drops with a teaspoon of olive, then pour the solution onto a tampon and insert it into the vagina. Or add several drops to a bath of warm water.
Garlic:
Garlic is an excellent anti-fungal. Garlic tablets can be a great addition to your diet to fight candida. Additionally you can crush some garlic into a paste and apply it directly onto a non-vaginal yeast infection. However the smell does tend to linger, sometimes for a few days!
It is definitely preferable to spend the time getting to the root cause of the infection and getting rid of your yeast infection for good, otherwise it can keep re-occuring. For more help you can visit www.homeremediesforyeastinfections.co.uk
Article source: http://www.articlesbase.com/womens-health-articles/home-remedies-for-yeast-infections-for-a-woman-with-thrush-5866586.html
