Yeast infection is a nasty condition and it is not surprising that many people are looking for quick relief from what can be very unpleasant symptoms. We are going to provide a bit of background that will help us to explore whether quick yeast infection relief is actually possible.

Background

Yeast infection (also known as Candida infection or Candidiasis) is triggered when conditions in our body allow Candida bacteria to multiply out of control.

We all have Candida bacteria in our intestines and on the surface of our bodies. They are needed by our body to keep unhealthy bacteria in check and they themselves are normally kept in check by friendly pro-biotic bacteria.

Under certain conditions the normal healthy internal balance can be disrupted this can allow the Candida can multiply out of control. When this happens the bacteria in our gastrointestinal tract can change from a yeast form into a fungal form which can break through the walls of our intestines and enter the blood stream. Yeast, bacteria and partially digested food can then find their way around the body and produce localised and sometimes systemic yeast infections.

There are a multitude of possible causes

The upsetting of our normal inner balance can be due to a multitude of factors including:

• A damaged or weakened immune system – possibly due to recent illness is less able to cope with infection.

• The taking of certain antibiotics which not only kill the infection that they were intended to treat but also the friendly pro-biotic bacteria that would normally keep Candida under control.

• Poor dietary choices can cause an increase in blood sugar levels and a reduction in the vitamins and nutrients – particularly the consumption of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates. The yeast will feed on the increased blood sugar levels and the body will struggle to stay healthy without essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

• Diabetes can also mean increased blood sugar levels, particularly if it is not yet diagnosed or not properly controlled through correct diet and/or insulin.

• Changes in hormone levels during the monthly cycle or as a result of pregnancy.

• High levels of stress can also inhibit the immune system so that it is less able to cope with infection.

Quick relief of symptoms

The symptoms of yeast infection can be very unpleasant and the good news is that there are quick relief techniques that can be effective in easing the symptoms:

• The use of plain yoghurt that has not been heat-treated and still contains active pro-biotic bacteria can help when applied to the affected area and left for an hour or so. Make sure that it has not been heat-treated as heat-treatment kills the pro-biotic bacteria. If the container says "bio-live" on the side this is a good indication that it still contains pro-biotic bacteria.

• Garlic has strong anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It can be applied to the affected area and taken internally and should help to combat the symptoms.

• Organic apple cider vinegar can also help when applied to the affected area.

But – be aware that quick relief does not usually cure

The quick relief methods outlined above (and others) will definitely go some way towards relieving the symptoms but they are highly unlikely to completely cure the infection. Because yeast infection is such a complex condition with a multitude of potential causes and underlying factors only a comprehensive holistic treatment can provide a permanent cure and prevent a return of the symptoms.

For more information on a permanent cure please visit my website.