subject: Different methods of yeast infection treatment [print this page] Different methods of yeast infection treatment
The yeast which causes infection is a single-celled fungus called candida and the infection caused by it is called candidiasis. The fungus lives on the surface of our bodies. Under moist and warm conditions and when the skin is not exposed to sunlight,the fungus grows and multiplies causing infection. The infection can occur in the mouth, under arms, lower abdomen, as diaper rashes in babies, vaginal or penile yeast infection in adults, in dentures, on skin folds, nail beds, on the face and on hands and feet ( in between toes). Yeast infection medicine like anti-fungal ointments and lotions can treat yeast infection but they are not a permanent yeast infection cure.
The most common infection is the vaginal yeast infection and about 75% of women get it. About 5% of women get the infection as a recurring feature. It is called recurrent vulva-vaginal candidiasis or RVVC. Oral medication is given for two weeks to treat RVVC. After this, a light dose of medication with anti-fungal creams is administered.
The preliminary step for yeast infection treatment is to ascertain the cause for it. The causes could be:
Too much of mental and physical stress
Impaired immune system due to illness
Remaining in wet clothes for long, specially after a swim; or not cleaning the sweat
Eating food which lacks balanced nutrition
Consuming too many antibiotics and having birth control pills
Wearing tight and synthetic under garments which do not allow the skin to breath and keeps the place warm.
Not eating food which has a lot of beneficiary yeasts ( like curd )which naturally combat the pathogen yeasts
Those causes which are under our control can be taken care of, first. We then, have to take care that we consult the doctor before using over the counter medicines. We should also not take more medicines than what the doctor has prescribed. If the infection does not get cured after medication, we must try the natural methods of treating it. Some examples of natural therapy are:Using garlic clove suppositories which are a natural enemy of yeast infection;external application of curd on the affected area or simply consuming curd internally as also eating raw garlic; using gentian violet which is a dye that can be applied on the affected area but it stains clothes, so we have to be careful; applying apple cider vinegar after diluting it with water (the doctor must be consulted to know exactly how to use it and a few more remedies like oil of oregano. Though the use of boric acid suppositories is suggested by some people, it is not good for open wounds. Besides, boric acid is toxic and definitely pregnant women should not use it.
Yeast infection treatment is a must and we must take precautions for not getting it repeatedly. Recurring yeast infections may lead to urinary tract infection and some dangerous diseases like leukemia. General preventive measures include drinking a lot of water( at least 8 oz. of water a day to wash out the toxins in the body), eating less of sugar and avoiding processed foods or drinks so that the yeast is starved of sugar, fructose and maltose and the infection dies a natural death, keeping the vulnerable area dry and clean, having a wash before and after intercourse and as far as possible avoiding antibiotics.
Yeast infection medicine must not be had for too long because they usually have side-effects. Antibiotics, in any case, weaken the immune system thereby making us prone to get more infections. We can try homoeopathy or herbal remedies. We should not use feminine sprays or scented toilet papers. Drugs had for curing acne can also cause yeast infections, so, this may be avoided. Lack of inner harmony and permanent anxiety will only increase the chances of an infection. We may try going to a holistic practitioner who will deal with the problem in a more comprehensive way and attack the root cause instead of simply giving medicines on the basis of visible symptoms.
