Yeast is a kind of a fungus which is scientifically known as Candida albicans. It is normally found in areas which have moisture such as the vagina, intestine and the mouth.

Besides Candida, there are some other strains of yeast which are found in the vaginal area too. They do not cause any adverse effects to the human body.

Their growth is kept in control by a protective bacterium named Lactobacillus acidophilus, which occurs in that region in a natural way. However, in certain cases an imbalance is created in these micro-organisms which lead to an overgrowth of Candida albicans.

According to medical statistics, a majority of the yeast infections are caused by Candida.

There are many reasons why the Candida surpasses the bacteria in the vaginal area, thereby causing a yeast infection.

Such yeast infections are also known as monilial vaginitis.

The causes of the vaginal yeast infection are:

  • During the pregnancy and before the beginning of the menses certain hormonal changes occur in women. These changes can bring about a yeast infection.
  • Frequent exposure to semen affects the acid balance of the vaginal area, thereby leading to the infection.
  • Lactobacillus acidophilus gets outnumbered by the Candida because they get killed due to an intake of steroids, broad-spectrum antibiotics and some birth control pills.
  • Wearing skin tight clothes creates a problem in the skin’s breathing process, thereby causing this infection.
  • The products which are used to clean the vaginal area may themselves trigger an infection due to the harsh chemicals in their composition.
  • Wearing synthetic clothes such as Lycra, nylon etc also causes the infection because they trap moisture and heat.
  • Over-consumption of sugar, starch as well as yeast.
  • Ailments such as multiple sclerosis, obesity, HIV infections and diabetes.

The causes of a yeast infection of the mouth, also called oral thrush, are as follows:

  • Ailments such as cancer, dry mouth and diabetes.
  • Smoking and ill-fitted dentures.

The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are:

  • Itching in the vagina,
  • A white and thick vaginal discharge,
  • Painful sexual intercourse,
  • Burning sensations
  • Soreness.
  • Pain while urinating.

The symptoms of oral thrush are:

  • Swallowing becomes painful and difficult.
  • There is a feeling that the food has got stuck in the throat.
  • If the infection spreads then there are chances of a fever.

Yeast infection treatment includes medical as well as alternative cures. The vaginal yeast infection is treated by oral or topical anti-fungal medicines such as clotrimazole and nystatin.

Yeast infection treatment can be done at home also with some simple yet effective remedies such as:

  • Soaking a tampon into curds and placing it on the infected area.
  • Regularly applying cider vinegar by diluting it with water. Garlic juice can also be added to stop itchiness.
  • Including two glasses of buttermilk in the diet.

Yeast infection treatment is done with the help of a nutritional therapy also.

Certain foods are found to be instrumental in increasing the production of Candida and also tend to hamper the immune system. Artificial sweeteners, poultry, dry fruits etc fall under this category.

On the other hand, yogurt helps in controlling the growth of Candida because of the good bacteria present in it.

Herbs are also widely used to remove the extra fungus from the body and in restoring the normal balance between the protective bacteria and the yeast.

Herbs such as calendula, rosemary, tea tree, thyme can be taken in the form of capsules, tea or douches.

Some of the other therapies which are used as a yeast infection treatment are:

  • Detoxification
  • Ayurveda
  • Aromatherapy
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Colon therapy.

The treatment of an oral thrush includes a medical check up to understand the root cause. An underlying ailment which may have caused the infection needs to be redressed first. The cure depends on the patient’s age and the root cause of the infection. It includes certain anti-fungal medicines taken in the form of tablets, lozenges etc.

Avoiding a recurrence of the vaginal yeast infection is essential. Some of the prevention tips are:

  • Avoid using clothes made out of synthetic fibers.
  • The vaginal area should be kept clean and dry.
  • Oral yeast infection can be prevented by regular dental check ups, reducing the intake of sugar and giving up smoking.