To answer why, we need to understand where yeast infections originate. Vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common symptoms of a Candida overgrowth in your body. Understanding what Candida is and how it presents itself can help you keep this common problem under control.
Candida is a bacterium (short for Candida Albicans) that’s normally present in your body and is responsible for a number of health problems. So we should take a look at how Candida can become a health problem, common symptoms and some side effects.
How Does Candida Become a Problem?
Now I can hear you asking “If Candida is a fungus like bacteria that’s naturally lives in the body, how does it become a problem?” Actual, the problem arises when Candida overgrows. In the same way yeast or other fungus, Candida thrives on sugar and loves to hide in warm dark environments. Places like your stomach, genitals (both male and female), your mouth and even your eyes can be host environments for Candida.
If left unabated, Candida can actually become systemic meaning it is present throughout your entire body. It takes over your organs and invades your blood stream. When this happens, death is a real risk.
Candida Thrives on Sugar
We already alluded that Candida thrives on sugar. There is real evidence to support that poor dietary habits, or diets high in sugar content, tend to cause Candida overgrowth. Now, this is great news for people who suffer from overgrowth symptoms. Often it simply means a change in your diet can alleviate the yeast infection problem.
So What Problems Can Arise From Candida Overgrowth?
The data tells us that about three in four women suffer from a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their life. Symptoms for yeast infections are exhibited by irritation in the vaginal area, a whitish discharge and inflammation or itching.
Treatment is generally over the counter, although your doctor can also prescribe medication. It is important to note, if you’re susceptible to yeast infections then you’re likely to see a recurrence unless you change your habits and lifestyle.
Other common signs of Candida overgrowth can be seen as oral thrush. It’s commonly seen in babies and children and presents as a white almost cottage cheesy coating in the mouth, tongue and throat. Generally, mild antifungal are prescribed and habits are assessed. For mothers of nursing babies, dietary changes may be required.
Skin infections can also be attributed to Candida. Presenting itself as a skin rash in folds of the skin where it is dark and moist or the surface depending on the individual. There are many types of Candida skin rashes that will vary from person to person. Diaper rash is certainly a very common form that can be treated with a topical anti fungal.
In conclusion, Candida Albicans overgrowth can cause a number of health problems, from basic, but very uncomfortable vaginal yeast infections or skin infections to greater problems such as fatigue, digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances and weight gains.
The immediate need is to treat the symptoms; however, you should also take steps to treating the cause of the symptoms. Changes in lifestyle and dietary can also lead to an improvement in your overall health.