What is a Yeast Infection?
The human body hosts hundreds of bacteria, yeast and othe micro-organisms. All of these co-exist quite happily unless an imbalance occurs. That imbalance, when it occurs with candida is known as a yeast infection or thrush.
What types of imbalance are causes of yeast infection?
There are several factors that can lead to an imbalance of this type:
- Certain medications can kill off the “healthy bacteria” that live in the gut meaning there is less natural competition for candida;
- Dietary choices can increase a person’s exposure to yeast and this can then cause yeast to multiply if combined with a high sugar diet (which essentially feeds the yeast allowing it to grow); and
- Medical conditions that compromise the immune system (such as diabetes, cancer treatment, HIV and aids) will make it easier for candida (yeast) to make a stronghold.
Where are yeast infections most commonly found?
Yeast infections (sometimes called candida or thrush) are most common in the vagina (vaginal thrush), mouth (oral thrush), yeast infection of the nipple and on the skin. Babies’ diaper rash can also be due to yeast (but may also be due to other irritants). Men may also be affected by yeast infection of the penis. Extreme cases of candidiasis may also affect the esophagus or, in extremely rare cases systemic candidiasis may occur.
