Understanding Yeast Infection: Symptoms, Signs, and Causes

Many women frequently express discomfort related to itching in their intimate areas, which may indicate an infection. But what kind of an infection is it? This is a yeast infection. Take a look at the article to understand the causes, signs and symptoms.

What is a Yeast Infection ?

Yeast is a type of fungus that naturally exists on your skin and can also be found in your digestive system. When an excessive amount of yeast develops on your skin or in other regions, it can lead to an infection, which is also referred to as candidiasis.

In case of women, yeast is also present in the vaginal area. Vaginal yeast infection is a common type which happens to about 3 out of every 4 women.

There are 4 types of candidiasis:

1. Candida infection in the vagina

2. Invasive candidiasis (heart, brain, eyes, bones, and other parts of the body)

3. Infections affecting the mouth, throat, and oesophagus

4. Antimicrobial Resistance (Fungi have the ability to defeat drugs)

Symptoms of Yeast Infections

Yeast infection symptoms depend on where it is situated in the body. The below table includes the most common symptoms of a yeast infection.

Causes of Yeast Infection

Yeast Infection can be caused due to the below reasons:

• Pregnancy

• Certain types of medication, including hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings), antibiotics, and steroids

• Immune-suppressing diseases, including HIV

• Diabetes

• Stress and lack of sleep, which can weaken the immune system

• Certain lifestyle habits which may promote the growth of candida. This includes eating a diet high in sugar, maintaining poor vaginal hygiene, wearing tight bottom-wear, being sexually active, using IUDs etc.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk of developing a yeast infection include:

• Weak immune system

• Being obese or overweight

• Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics

• Increased estrogen levels

Yeast Infection Prevention

Below mentioned tips can help reduce your risk of yeast infection.

• Avoid douching

• Don’t use vaginal deodorant or deodorant pads or tampons

• Wear underwear made from cotton or other natural fibers

• Wear loose fitting pants or skirts

• Wash underwear at a high temperature

• Avoid tight underwear and pantyhose

• Eat a healthy, varied diet

• Promptly change wet clothing, such as bathing suits

• Avoid hot tubs and hot baths

• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent mouth yeast infections (thrush).

• Monitor your blood sugar levels