A yeast infection is a common problem for women but it can actually affect anyone, male, female, old or young. Usually the fungus that causes a yeast infection lives on or in our bodies without causing any health problems. But if the balance of our bodies is upset and the fungus has an opportunity to overgrow it will quickly do so leading to a yeast infection.
Candida Albicans (Vaginal) – Caused by the fungus Candida Albicans, and as mentioned the most common form. Over three quarters of women are likely to face this problem, but two thirds of women who diagnose themselves with a vaginal yeast infection are incorrect and therefore are treating themselves incorrectly too. This happens because a vaginal yeast infection looks a lot like other problems down there like STDs and bacterial vaginosis, and unless you are a professional you cannot tell the difference. Rashes, redness, sometimes a discharge like cottage cheese, certainly itching and swelling are all common symptoms.
Moniliasis: This other form of vaginal yeast infection can be painful and you should consult with a doctor on treatment. Women who are pregnant or on antibiotics are more prone.
Balanitis – The male genital yeast infection. The penis may swell, be red, itchy, have a rash, as you can see symptoms have some in common with the vaginal infection. Men can get it when having intercourse that is unprotected with a woman who has a vaginal yeast infection.
Thrush: An oral yeast infection that affects the mouth and sometimes throat. White spots with lesions beneath them and difficulty swallowing are the common symptoms. It is common in babies who tend to have less pain with it than adults do. This is because their immune system is not at full strength yet.
Intertrigo: This is when a yeast infection is on the skin such as under folds in the obese and armpits. Friction can bring on an infection where skin rubs on skin and symptoms are a rash and itching.
Now that you have learned the different types of yeast infection that can occur it would be a good idea to learn how to prevent them!
For more info on how to deal with candida, check out our candida symptoms and cure website, where you can find plenty of information on the subject. Today’s special: skin yeast infection