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The good news for yeast infection sufferers is that knowing the facts and identifying symptoms leads to treatment and often prevention. Yeast (candida albicans) is a fungus native to moist regions of the body. Yeast infections develop upon disruption of candida balance.

All categories of yeast infections share similar characteristics. Antibiotics, diabetes, weakened immune system, sexual contact, spermicides, and sugar consumption are common yeast infection causes. General symptoms of yeast infections are itching, burning, tenderness, and redness.

Vaginal yeast infections:
Yeast infection generally on the labia and canal. Restrictive clothing, fabrics, and dyes contribute to fungal imbalance. White clumpy or clear yellowish discharge represents yeast overgrowth.

Diagnosis & Treatment
Your physician can examine samples of vaginal discharge for evidence of yeast. Common treatments consist of creams, suppositories, and oral medications. Over-the-counter remedies are available to those who choose to self-diagnose. Use methods only as prescribed and allow allotted time for recovery.

Male Yeast Infections:
Yeast infections do occur in men. The above listed general symptoms indicate yeast overgrowth is present.

Diagnosis & Treatment
Men develop yeast infections the same as women, thus the same guidelines apply. Male diagnosis is often secondary to his partner's diagnosis. Upon female diagnosis, her physician will frequently prescribe treatment for her mate to avoid repeated transmission of the infection.

Oral yeast infection:
Thrush affects mainly babies, children, elderly people, and people with autoimmune disorders. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and bottle-feeding babies generate yeast overgrowth, forming thick white lesions inside the mouth. Painful swallowing and fever may be present.

Diagnosis & Treatment
A dentist or medical doctor will swab a saliva sample from your mouth and test it for yeast. Anti-fungal medications such as thrush-tablets, lozenges, and liquids cure thrush in 10-14 days.

Candida yeast infections:

Candida is a complex reoccurring infection frequently caused by underlying illness. Symptoms include headaches, excessive fatigue, craving sweets, inability to focus, mood disorders, and stomach problems. Candida infections may spread to the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract. When Candida spreads to the bloodstream, Candidemia occurs.

Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis for Candida is based on the combination and frequency of symptoms. Candida yeast infections require stronger anti-fungal agents. Underlying illness is isolated and treated if possible. For sufferers of Candidemia, the prognosis is the same. Current testing for an intravenous anti-fungal agent is in the works.

Examine the causes listed. Avoid practices that upset your natural balance. Maintain good hygiene. Keep moist areas clean and dry. Significantly reduce your intake of sugars and starches. Avoid sexual relations while infected.

You are not alone. Seventy-five percent of people endure yeast infections. Further resources are available in your doctor's office and on the web at sites such as candida-solutions.com, yeastconnection.com, and ehealthforum.com/health/yeast_ infection.html.

Learn more about this author, TC Crumpton.
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