Background

There is actually a relatively high rate of incorrect diagnosis of this medical condition. Many sufferers who assume that they have a yeast infection tend to treat themselves using conventional over-the-counter anti-fungal medications when, in fact, they may have another condition that needs a completely different treatment.

Bacterial vaginosis is often confused with yeast infection as the symptoms can be very similar. In a similar way, various skin conditions which can cause rashes and lesions can also be confused with skin yeast infection.

Obviously incorrect diagnosis and hence incorrect treatment can lead to significant aggravation of the actual underlying medical condition. In order to make sure that we diagnose correctly we need knowledge of what yeast infection (Candidiasis) is and what the causes and symptoms are. It would also assist in the diagnosis if we could find a simple home test for Candidiasis.

Causes of Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are caused by microscopic bacteria called Candida which lives on the surface of our bodies, in the genital areas, under skin folds and in our intestine. Candida is essential to maintain a healthy balance and keep unhealthy bacteria under control. Candida itself is keep under control by friendly bacteria which, under normal circumstances, prevent the Candida from multiplying out of control.

If the normal balance in our body is disrupted the Candida can multiply unchecked and they can then change from a yeast form into a fungal form which can penetrate the walls of our intestines. When this happens the yeast and bacteria can get into our blood stream and this can trigger infections in almost any part of the body. The condition can then become systemic and in extreme cases can even cause death.

Factors That Cause Candida Overgrowth

Candida overgrowth can be caused by a number of factors such as:

• Loss of friendly bacteria through the use of antibiotics.

• An unhealthy diet that raises blood sugar levels – yeast love to feed on sugar.

• Diabetes causing an increase in blood sugar levels which Candida will feed on.

• A weakened immune system caused by recent illness and/or stress.

• Hormonal changes during the monthly cycle or as a result of pregnancy.

• Sexual contact with an infected partner can cause the infection to be transferred.

Typical Symptoms of Yeast Infection

Typical symptoms include:

• Itchy sore rashes on the genitals and possibly under skin folds.

• Smelly curd-like discharges from the vagina or penis.

• Infection of the mouth and throat known as oral thrush.

• Nail infections – thickened, discoloured or damaged nails.

• A burning type of pain during urination or intercourse.

• Possible fatigue and blurred vision.

A Simple Home Test

There is a simple home test which can be used to help you confirm whether you do, in fact, have a yeast infection.

As soon as you wake up in the morning and before you put anything in your mouth, spit into a clear glass of cold water. Check the water every ten minutes or so. If you see strings travelling down into the glass you have Candida yeast infection. If the saliva sinks to the bottom of the glass this is an indication that the infection is severe.

Treatment

Once diagnosed it is important to treat the condition as soon as possible to prevent possible complications that can be triggered if the condition becomes systemic. I can recommend a holistic approach based on a combination of cleansing techniques and lifestyle and dietary changes as the best way to get permanent relief rather than the temporary relief that you may get from typical over-the-counter treatments.