Yeast Infections
One of the most common types of infection women are afflicted with are yeast infections. However, a yeast infection can afflict any sex or age of person in different ways. By learning more about the different types of yeast infections, you will be able to determine when you need medical attention for your symptoms and when you may be able to treat yourself with over the counter medications. What are the different types of yeast infections?
Yeast infections, found any where in or on the body, cause a wide range of symptoms -- discomfort, pain, itching, digestive problems, etc -- and if left untreated can become serious. If you experience the symptoms mentioned here, check with your doctor and seek treatment quickly.
A vaginal yeast infection is a very common yeast infection for women. The symptoms of a yeast infection can range from mild to severe, depending upon the severity of the infection. Symptoms include:
- Pain when urinating
- Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
- Thick, white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese
- Burning or swelling of the area around the vagina and the vagina
If you've never had a yeast infection, but think you have the symptoms, you may want to visit the doctor to find out. If you have had them before, there are many over the counter treatments that you can use, including Gyne-Lotrimin and Monistat.
An oral yeast infection is also known as thrush. This oral Candida infection is characterized by white lacey-patterned patches in the mouth. These patches may be quite painful, which prevents eating and drinking. If it begins to travel down the throat and into the esophagus it can cause even more severe problems swallowing. Oral Candida can travel throughout the body if not treated, so early treatment is necessary to prevent further symptoms and problems.
A skin yeast infection is commonly dismissed as a heat rash or diaper rash. It is normally characterized by a rash that shows as small, flat, red dots on the skin and can easily be treated with over the counter medications for fungus or nystatin powders. It is important to treat this infection as it can spread to other parts of the body causing further symptoms and illness. If it does not clear up within one to two weeks, consult a physician for further treatment.
An internal yeast infection most often occurs due to a weakened immune system. If this infection attacks an organ of the body you may experience pain, fever, and dysfunction of the body organ. This is a very serious infection when it gets into the body. If it gets into the bloodstream, it becomes even more serious with health symptoms and fevers. A yeast infection in the brain can cause diminished thought and changes in behavior.
Most yeast infections can be handled with the proper diagnosis and treatment. Making sure the yeast infection goes away is very important to ensure that it does not spread to other parts of the body. By paying attention to your symptoms and visiting the doctor as necessary, you can help to prevent many of the problems that can be associated with a yeast infection.
