Understanding Candida Yeast Infection

Candida yeast infection is the bane of many women's existence. You can't possibly imagine how much this infection affects many women's well being especially if it is chronic.

Candida Yeast Infection - What is It?

Curiously, Candida albicans are normal. They are present in women's bodies. In fact, they are present in men's bodies too. This infection, however, occurs when there is an overgrowth of fungi in the body. The same fungus also causes babies' diaper rash - if you could just imagine.
Typically, the yeasts are kept in check by the good bacteria that also resides in women's bodies. But if the normal balance between these good bacteria and fungi is disturbed, this results to this infection.

The Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of this infection generally start with vaginal itching. Actually, the typical symptoms of this infection start with itching. Eventually, the itching may be accompanied by thick, white and lumpy discharge that is fairly akin to the appearance of a cottage cheese. You'd most likely experience vaginal soreness and burning. You'd also notice skin redness or raised rashes on the vaginal area. Women who suffer from this condition will also notice burning with urination and pain with intercourse.

Other symptoms of severe infection may also include fever, chills, abdominal pain, back pain, shoulder pain, nausea, vomiting, foul smelling vaginal discharge, change in menstrual patterns and frequent missed periods. However, these latter symptoms may also be signs of a more serious condition because this infection can be a symptom of other conditions like HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. If you are exhibiting these symptoms, you should definitely visit your healthcare provider.

Is It Common?

If you're suffering from this condition right now, you are sharing the same problem with thousands of women all over the globe. In fact, 3 out of 4 women have at one time or another experience a bout of this infection. Yes, you are not alone.

If you are looking for information about this condition online and you've been reading articles about it, you've probably come across the words, "Candida Infection as a symptom of HIV". You're probably even more scared than before you first read articles on this kind of fungi infection. Do not despair. Unless, you're absolutely sure you may be at risk for AIDS, your malady is not serious. Yeast infection is 99% of the time not a symptom of a serious disease. It is also an easily treatable disease. It could make you feel quite miserable but you can easily resolve the problem with the right treatment.

Can men develop this condition?

This is not impossible. In fact, there are reports of men developing this condition. Usually, this type of infection in men is acquired through sexual contact. It is also painful and uncomfortable. It can also persist for a long time if not treated.

Treatment of Candida Yeast Infection

There are a lot of treatments or drugs available on the market. Most of these drugs are over-the-counter drugs. However, if you're infection is more serious than usual, you may require a stronger dose of antibiotics. This would, of course, require a visit to your doctor for prescription. Treatment for chronic infection would also require longer treatment. Some people need at least six months treatment before they'd see the improvement in their condition. There are people who opt for natural remedies which also work just fine.