Vaginal Yeast Infections

Vaginal Yeast infections are likely to affect three out of four women at least once in their lifetime. The most common cause for vaginal yeast infection is candida albicans - tiny organisms that live and multiply within the vagina. This vaginal infection is not sexually transmitted. Since the pH of the vagina is usually acidic, the yeast organisms do not multiply. Medications, diabetes, hormonal changes and stress can alter the acidic nature of the vagina. This can cause candidiasis - a condition where the normal balance of bacteria is altered and infection occurs.

Birth control pills, excessive consumption of alcohol and compromised immune system can make a woman more susceptible to a vaginal yeast infection. There is itching and burning in the vagina and vulva. A woman has pain during urination and sexual intercourse. Vaginal yeast infection leads to thick and sticky discharge.

Vaginal Yeast infections are usually treated with vaginal creams and suppositories that dissolve and tackle the infection. Topical creams such as clotrimazole or miconazole relieve itching and also treat the yeast infection. It is essential to rule out infections such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis and gonorrhea.

Vaginitis

Vaginitis refers to irritation in the vagina or abnormal discharge caused due to infection. Sometimes it is caused by allergy or irritation or sexual activity. In most cases, vaginitis is caused by vaginal yeast infection, trichomoniasis vaginitis or bacterial vaginosis. Vaginitis is not a serious disease but can be distressing and uncomfortable. It must be seen if the person is also suffering from a sexually transmitted disease.

Women suffering from vaginitis notice abnormal or increased discharge that may have a foul smell. There is itching and irritation in the vagina. There is pain on urination and sexual intercourse. There might thick vaginal discharge. It is essential to discuss the problem with your health worker so that the right treatment can be adopted. Physical examination and test of vaginal fluid can help detect vaginitis. The vaginal pH is an indication of the presence of any infection. The type and cause of vaginal infection determines the nature of treatment. The medications used are anti-fungal medicines or oral antibiotics. Vaginal gels or creams may also be prescribed. Vaginal yeast infection must be treated with antifungal creams. You can reduce your chances of contracting vaginitis with some simple measures:

• Use of condom
  
• Maintaining good hygiene
  
• Wearing cotton underclothes
  
• Avoid feminine sprays, scented tampons and douches
  
• Include yogurt in your diet
  

Oral thrush

Fungal Throat Infection is also referred to as oral thrush. It is an infection caused by the yeast fungus Candida albicans. In most people, the presence of Candida in the oral cavity is not uncommon. It is only when there is a change that favors the growth of candida that a fungal throat infection develops. Conditions such as diabetes, AIDS and malnutrition can trigger this change.

Persons suffering from oral thrush will notice whitish spots in the mouth. There may be burning or bleeding. It can lead to fungal infection of the throat and consequently nausea and difficulty in swallowing. A throat culture helps in identifying the micro organisms that cause the infection in the throat. It could reveal epiglottis, strep throat, pharyngitis or diphtheria. Anti fungal drugs such as nystatin, amphotericin or miconazole are used to treat oral thrush.