I Have a Yeast Infection - By: Stephanie Jacobs

"I have a yeast infection!" It is estimated that 75% of women will say this at least once in their lives. Candida, the scientific name for yeast, is already present in the body but only in small quantities. The overgrowth of candida is what causes a yeast infection. Thrush is a term used to describe a fungal infection caused by any form of Candida. The term candida yeast infection can be used interchangeably with the term yeast infection. Now that you're up to speed with all the names for a yeast infection let's make sure that's what you really have.

Let's look at the symptoms just to confirm your suspicions. The symptoms associated with a vaginal candida infection are a burning sensation, itchiness, a thick cottage cheese like discharge, and pain during urination. Did you know that candida infections are the 2nd most common reason for vaginal itching and discharge?

It should also be said that a candida infection is not limited to the vagina, nor to women. Warm, moist areas such as underneath the breast or underarms, around dentures and nail beds also promote the growth of yeast. It's easy to forget that a male yeast infection is nearly as common. The symptoms are also very similar: irritation, itchiness, discharge, and soreness. Although for men it can be seen as somewhat embarrassing, but for women it's a foregone conclusion. It's very likely to happen at some point no matter how careful you are.

So now if you're still saying "I have a yeast infection! How the heck do I get rid of it?!" we should talk about some simple changes that can really help relieve those symptoms.

- Watch your sugar intake. Increased sugar levels will aid yeast growth.

- Yogurt that contains live cultures of lactobacillius acidophilus can help prevent the growth of yeast. Try having a pot of yogurt with breakfast each morning.

- Wear cotton underwear, a simple change but one that will really help.

- Also with regards to clothing, try not to wear tight clothes because that will create a warm environment for the spread of yeast.

- De-stress. Stress weakens your immune system and a weakened immune system can be the cause of an infection.

While these are great tips, if you are in the middle of a full blown candida yeast infection, it might be too late for these changes to help. It is advisable to go to your doctor who can prescribe a cream or oral pill. There are also some great over the counter products which I review on my website.

About the Author

Stephanie Jacobs created and maintains a website devoted to yeast infections and in particular how to get rid of candida yeast infections. Visit her website here http://www.gettingridofyeastinfections.com/

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Stephanie-Jacobs/212652

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