Yeast Infection Treatments

Candidiasis, commonly called yeast infection or thrush, is a fungal infection of any of the Candida species, of which Candida albicans is probably the most common. Yeast organisms are a natural part of the body's composition, primarily in the digestive tract in both males and females. Naturally occurring microorganisms usually prevent yeast overgrowth but there are a number of factors that can contribute to failure to prevent overgrowth, which leads to a yeast infection.

Infection Symptoms

Yeast infections occur in both males and females and can affect a number of different areas in the body. However, the most common form of yeast infection is a vaginal infection in women. It is estimated that at least 80% of women will experience a yeast infection at some point. Symptoms of a vaginal infection include the following:
• Vaginal itching, burning or irritation.
• Painful urination.
• Painful intercourse.
• Thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge.

Men experiencing a yeast infection typically have two common symptoms--a red rash on the penis and itching or burning at the head of the penis. Some men have reported discharge associated with a yeast infection but it is not considered a common symptom.

Treatment

There are a number of lifestyle changes that can be made to prevent vaginal yeast infections by making the environment less favorable for growth including the following:
• Change quickly out of wet clothing (bathing suit, etc.).
• Avoid douching and other irritants such as perfumed bath products.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing that retains heat and traps moisture.
• Wear cotton underwear to allow for better circulation.
• Keep the genital area clean, dry and cool.

For those people experiencing a yeast infection, there are a number of herbal supplements on the market that can contribute to the rebalancing of naturally occurring yeast. The four main steps involved in the natural treatment of a yeast infection are to 1) kill the yeast and bad bacteria causing the infection, 2) bind the release toxins and excrete them from the body, 3) aggressively replenish the good bacteria and 4) restore proper immune function treatment to prevent future infection.