How to Cure a Yeast Infection

Yeast infection, medically termed as candidiasis or thrush is a fungal infection spread by candida species. The yeast fungi is present in the body in small amount, but they are harmless unless certain diseases or medications lead to rapid multiplication of yeast fungi. The yeast bacteria usually grows in the moist parts of the body like vagina, rectum, underarms, mouth, digestive system or toes. Yeast infection is common among people with low immune system, hence it is commonly observed in patients suffering from AIDS, cancer and diabetes. Even infants and old people are more prone to infection, as their resistance power is not strong enough. People suffering from the infection experience severe irritation, discomfort and uneasiness.

Using Medication

It is always better to visit a doctor, when the first signs and symptoms of yeast infection appear. Early diagnosis and treatment is a key to prevent the spread of infection. Doctors may prescribe some anti fungal oral medicines and anti fungal ointments or creams, which can reduce the irritation and burning sensation caused by yeast infection. Anti fungal medicines or drugs which can provide effective cure include fluconazole, topical nystatin, topical clotrimazole, amphotericin B and topical ketoconazole. Acidophilus supplements also prove to be one of the effective remedies. In cases, wherein the infection has spread rapidly, medications like voriconazole, caspofungin and amphotericin can be prescribed by the doctor. Medicated douches and vaginal suppositories may be prescribed. All the above medications are to be taken strictly under medical supervision. Over the counter medications should be avoided, as side effects caused by them may lead to rapid growth of fungi.

With Home Remedies

When a woman is pregnant, availing some of the natural remedies is the best way. As medications can cause side effects in pregnant women or infants, treating the infection naturally can not only provide relief, but also cure the infection considerably.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is rich in antibacterial and anti fungal properties, which makes it effective in treating the infection. Mixing a cup of apple cider vinegar to warm water while bathing everyday can not only provide relief from itching and burning, but also prevents further infection.

Garlic
Anti fungal properties of garlic are well-known. Gently rubbing a clove of garlic on the affected area can be effective. You can also wrap a paste of garlic in cheesecloth and rub it on the affected area. Eating cloves of garlic with water or including garlic in your diet will also be effective.

Yogurt
Applying yogurt on the affected areas, can get rid of the irritation and discomfort to a very large extent. Yogurt has soothing properties and has no side effects. Probiotic bacteria, which are good for the body are found in abundance in yogurt. Eating unsweetened yogurt daily can also help.

Tea Tree Oil
Massaging tea tree oil on the affected area is extremely beneficial, as it is rich in anti fungal properties. Adding few drops of tea tree oil to the bathing water can also decrease the infection.

Dietary Changes

Diet plays a significant role. Salty, spicy or over processed foods are a strict no-no when suffering from candida infection. Foods that are rich in sugar should also be avoided, as they accelerate the growth of candida. Also avoid foods which contain yeast, as it can lead to further complications. Foods like rice cakes, nuts and seeds, lentils, sprouts, unprocessed meat, soy milk, brown flour products, beans, onions, and eggs should form a part of your diet. As I said earlier, also include yogurt and garlic in your diet. Apart from this eating cranberries can be extremely beneficial. Cranberry helps to lower the pH level of urine. So when urine passes out of the body, it tends to increase the acidity of genital area, thus washing the infected areas clean of yeast.

Hope, by now, all your queries regarding how to cure a yeast infection have been resolved. If you are suffering from recurrent yeast infections, it can be a sign of other major illnesses. So don't ignore the symptoms and seek medical treatment immediately, to avoid further complications.