There are several terms for a yeast infection, Thrush, Candidiasis, Candida. They are all the same thing, caused by the multiplying of a fungus, Candida Albicans. Anyone can be affected, both genders and any age.
The genital area and in particular the vagina, is a perfect breeding ground for the fungus and that is why vaginal yeast infections are the most frequent type to occur. This means that though not limited to women, it is more usual for it to happen to a woman. There are several causes or triggers that lead to the overgrowth, a few mentioned here are clothing, medication, pregnancy, improper drying after bathing, incorrect wiping after a bowel movement, not changing out of wet clothing, diabetes and diet. If you have a yeast infection you should treat it as quickly as you can, as ignoring it will not help, things can get worse. In extremely rare situations if the fungus was to enter the blood and attack internal organs it can even prove fatal.
Prevention is possible though, and a far better option than looking for a cure, so here are three ways to prevent getting a vaginal yeast infection.
Wear loose clothing The ideal breeding grounds for a yeast infection to thrive in are places that are damp and warm and dark. Therefore wearing tight clothing like tight pants will keep your vaginal area at the perfect conditions for the yeast to live in. Avoid pantyhose, and tight jeans that make you sweaty. Also look at the material your underwear is made from. Synthetic materials do not allow the air to circulate so wear cotton so the skin can breathe. Fashion is certainly not worth recurring yeast infections!
Stay Dry: A very good way to keep yeast infections away is to keep the vagina dry. After you shower or bath make sure you dry properly and thoroughly. As mentioned get out of wet clothing as soon as you can, so avoid sunbathing in a wet suit, change out of sweat pants after exercising, make sure you wipe properly after urinating, change your underwear during the day when its needed.
Watch what you eat: Avoid certain foods like yeast such as in beer and bread. Particularly cut out sugar as it feeds the fungus. Eat more healthily i.e a diet low in processed and junk foods and high in vegetables. To help out your immune system give it plenty of Vitamin C whether in what you eat or as a supplement. Cranberry juice is a great drink to add to your diet and drink plenty of water each day.
For more about candida symptoms and cure, just visit our website. Today’s special: yeast infection causes