Yeast infections are caused by fungus. While there are other kinds of fungi that can also cause infections, the one that is known to be the cause in most cases of yeast infections is Candida albicans. This fungus can cause thrush in the mouth, fungal infections in toenails and finger nails and also vaginitis, an inflammation of the vagina.

Although an yeast infection can cause other issues, vaginitis is the most common among all types. It is estimated that 75% of all women report an inflammation of the vagina at some point in their lives. Yeast infections can also cause vulvitis, an inflammation of the external genital organs like the clitoris and labia of the female.

Causes of Yeast Infections

Most people know that the main cause of yeast infections is predominance of Candida in specific areas. While a certain number of fungi are almost always present on the human skin, these are found in larger numbers in moist areas such as the mouth and the vagina. In healthy humans, the ‘good’ bacteria that can fight Candida is adequate and therefore, there are no symptoms of yeast infections.

The symptoms of yeast infections start showing when the ‘good bacteria’ cannot control the preponderance of yeast. Good bacteria can be destroyed and reduced in number due to various factors that include:

• Antibiotics
• Immunosuppressive drugs
• Injury to internal vagina
• Chemotherapy
• Weakened immune system
• Oral contraceptives
• Excessive use of vaginal douches or sprays

There are some factors that can encourage yeast infections and these include:

• Humid weather and allowing skin to remain wet and damp in certain areas
• Poorly ventilated, tight and synthetic clothing
• Poor nutrition and consumption of junk food
• Vaginal douches and sprays that remove healthy secretions
• Poor personal hygiene and wiping from rear to front

Symptoms of yeast infections

Symptoms of yeast infections can be extremely irritating and painful and can disrupt your life if they become excessive. The fact that yeast infections tend to recur frequently can make the problem even more unbearable. The symptoms of yeast infections can range from mild to severe. This depends on the level of predominance of the Candida fungus and whether the fungus has been able to enter the blood or not.

Some of the common symptoms include:

• Painful sex, sexual dysfunction and even impotence
• Vaginal discharge and odor
• Acne, eczema and signs of aging
• Constant headaches and migraine attacks
• Urinary disorders
• Depression, short attention span, memory issues and mood swings
• Fatigue, irritability and excessive PMS
• Joint pains, swelling, hip and knee pains

Remedies for yeast infections

While yeast infection can be controlled temporarily by conventional allopathic medication like topical creams and antibiotics, the infection is likely to return in almost all cases because this medication weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to yeast attacks. While topical antifungal creams can be used to relieve symptoms, a more holistic approach can help in keeping yeast infections away.

Some common home remedies that have been known to be effective are yogurt, honey, probiotics, apple cider vinegar and garlic. Each of these remedies can be used locally or added in large quantities to the diet.

Understanding the cause of yeast infection can help you keep these infections away later. It is also extremely important that you understand that comprehensive treatment of yeast infections is only possible with a holistic attack.