Home Remedies for Yeast Infections

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Studies indicate that yeast infections are experiences by 75% of women, with increasing occurrence in pre-menopausal and menopausal women. Yeast infections will also affect men as well.

Causes

The body contains a natural balance of yeast; a yeast infection is caused by an unhealthy imbalance or increase in yeast in the body.

Candida albicans is usually the cause of vaginal yeast infections.

A healthy vagina has bacteria and a small number of yeast cells. Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most common bacteria and will normally help keep other organisms-like the yeast-under control.

When the balance of these organism shifts or changes, yeast can grow too much and cause symptoms. Taking antibiotics sometimes causes this imbalance. The high estrogen levels caused by pregnancy or hormone replacement therapy can also cause it. So can certain health problems, like diabetes or HIV infection.

Yeast Infection in Women

Yeast infections can be very disruptive to your life. The burning and itching can be painful and distressful. The burning can cause pain during urination or sexual intercourse. Yeast infections can also cause a white discharge that has no odor and a texture like cottage cheese. Symptoms may increase the week before menstruation.

Yeast Infection in Men

In men, sexual transmission, antibiotic use and diabetes can all contribute to yeast infections which will have similar symptoms of redness, irritation, pain or soreness in the penis which may include pain during irritation.

Yeast by any other Name

Yeast infection symptoms can mirror the symptoms of other infections and disorders including sexually transmitted diseases. It is important to consult your doctor, particularly if you have not experienced the symptoms before.

Old Home Cures for Yeast Infections 

Many traditional home cures for yeast infections in both men and women include topical or inserted applications of ingredients. The Mayo Clinic has suggested that most if not all of these solutions have no positive impact on yeast infections and may increase irritation and pain. Any topical application should be tested in a small area for allergic reactions. Some suggested ingredients like boric acid, garlic and vinegar can be very harmful when applied topically, especially if not properly diluted.

Ounce of Prevention

Many of the old home treatments start with avoiding the causes of the condition. Moisture can contribute to the occurrence of yeast infections so avoiding too tight clothing, using underwear of cotton or other breathable materials, avoiding wet clothes and proper drying procedures for the area, wiping after using the toilet from front to back will also reduce the likelihood of yeast infections.

From the Inside Out

Increasing probiotic levels by increasing the amount of yogurt you eat will help to keep the bacterial and yeast balance.

Drinking buttermilk while symptoms are presenting may also contribute to the balance. Many of the topical suggestions like garlic and vinegar can be added to the diet to regulate internal balance, without the possibility of irritation.

Reduce the use of products in the genital area that can contribute to the irritation especially those with perfumes or chemical additives. Condoms can cause irritation from latex and also the powder coatings, abstinence during symptoms is important as it can be spread from partner to partner. 

Article Last Modified Friday, October 23, 2009
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