Background

Studies have shown that yeast infection is more common in the populations of developed countries – possibly at least in part due to the convenience food culture. It is estimated that up to three quarters of the entire population of developed countries may suffer yeast infection of one form or another.

As former "third world countries" become more and more developed the total global demand for yeast infection medications has reached hundreds of millions of dollars. While drug manufacturers are facing an ever-increasing demand, there are still many unanswered questions about over-the-counter yeast infection treatments.

What actually is Yeast Infection?

Yeast infection is caused when a particular type of bacteria, known as Candida, which are normally present in all healthy human beings, are able to multiply out of control.

Candida is normally found on the surfaces of our skin, in the mouth and particularly in the genital areas and the gastrointestinal tract. It is needed by our bodies to keep other unhealthy bacteria in check.

Candida itself is normally kept under control by friendly pre-biotic bacteria and while there is a normal, correct balance of these bacteria in our bodies everything is fine and no yeast related infections should occur.

Unfortunately, there are a number of situations that can happen to all of us from time to time which can disrupt the natural internal balance and allow the Candida to multiply out of control. When this happens the bacteria can transform from a yeast form into a fungal form which can penetrate the walls of our intestines. Yeast, bacteria and partially digested food can then find their way into our blood stream and around our bodies causing localised and in some cases systemic infections.

Common Symptoms of Yeast Infection

The common symptoms of localised yeast infections are sore, red itchy areas often accompanied by a cottage-cheese like discharge and a nasty smell. This is usually found in the genital areas and the mouth, but can also occur under skin fold or the breasts.

Systemic Candidiasis can include the symptoms above and also general fatigue and tiredness with possible blurred vision. In extreme cases systemic Candidiasis can even be fatal.

Over-The-Counter Yeast Infection Treatments

For the last couple of decades anti-fungal yeast infection medications have become available such as anti-fungal creams, tablets and suppositories.

Most of the available treatments are effective for treating the unpleasant symptoms but very few are able to properly tackle the underlying cause – the internal imbalance which stems from a complex situation probably involving a number of different factors.

The disadvantages of relying too heavily on over-the-counter medications are therefore:

• They only tackle the symptoms – not the root cause.

• Using them in the long term may have unpleasant side effects.

• They allow the patient to continue with what may be a very unhealthy lifestyle which actually perpetuates the problem and contributes to recurrent yeast infections, possibly for years to come.

What is really needed is a comprehensive holistic approach which will pick up on the various issues with lifestyle, diet, etc. and offer a permanent solution. For more information please visit my website.