What is Candida Yeast?

Candida albicans is the technical name for the most common type of yeast that is present in your body. When your system’s balance is off, there can be an overgrowth of yeast, causing a yeast infection.

When most people hear the phrase yeast infection, they often think of vaginal yeast infections that are common among most women. However, it’s important to note that everyone can get a yeast infection.

Babies frequently have yeast overgrowth in the diaper area and in the mouth, where it’s called thrush. The elderly are susceptible to yeast growth in warm, moist places. They frequently experience symptoms in skin folds, under the breasts and abdomen, as well as in the nail beds, between the fingers and toes, and around dentures. Men can get yeast infections and can transmit them to their partners as well.

What are Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?

On the skin, a yeast infection appears as a red rash with sharp edges and is itchy and painful. Frequently there are smaller lesions nearby. Thrush appears in the mouth as thick white patches over a red base (the tongue, throat, etc). This can make it painful for the person with thrush to eat; take care they don’t get dehydrated.

Vaginal yeast infections cause an itching and burning sensation in and around the vagina. Often a thick, white curdlike discharge accompanies the infection. Men experience yeast infections on and around the penis as an itching and burning feeling. They do not have discharge.

Recurring Yeast Infections

Some women experience recurring yeast infections that may last over the course of a number of years. Often these infections are signs of a much more serious problem and should be looked into. Recurring yeast infections can be signs of serious immune disorders.

Preventing Yeast Infections

Keep at risk areas, like underneath folds of skin, the diaper area and the genitals clean and dry. Wash with a gentle soap and if possible dress in loose fitting clothing. Maintain safe sex practices, using a condom if any irregular symptoms occur. Refrain from having sex if you or your partner has a yeast infection.

Be Healthy

The easiest way to prevent yeast infections and any other ailment is to stay healthy. When your body and mind are healthy, your immune system will be too. Limit your alcohol and caffeine consumption, and try to eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit the amount of fats (saturated fat, trans fats, etc) and sugars. Get regular exercise to keep your body active.

It’s important to maintain a healthy attitude throughout. If you have a yeast infection, work to maintain your regular, active life. There’s no need to refrain from most activities (with the exception of sexual intercourse). Recurrent yeast infections have been linked in the past to depression, as yeast build-up in the body throws your body out of balance and may encourage other health problems such as allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines and asthma. The new problems may trigger other symptoms in a cyclical fashion.

Learn more about Candida Albicans and Yeast Infections here.

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/candidiasis-yeast-infection
http://www.jigsawhealth.com/articles/depression-yeast.html