External Yeast Infection
A Quick Guide to External Yeast Infection
External yeast infection is a common medical problem that is caused by fungi that can grow on the skin in areas that are moist and not often exposed to the air. Although this fungus can be present on the skin without any noticeable symptoms, if someone’s metabolism is not working properly it can cause a breakdown in the body’s resistance.
If the body’s resistance is low the yeast can multiply, causing an external yeast infection. This is the reason why people who have a compromised immune system or an underlying health problem are more susceptible to developing a yeast infection.
There are other medical conditions that can mimic external yeast infection, such as ringworm, so it is important that a yeast infection be properly diagnosed if you are not sure of what exactly is causing the symptoms.
Yeast infection can actually be a very serious condition; although in most cases it will appear as a rash on the skin, it can affect the internal organs as well. When the infection is on the skin it is known as an external yeast infection.
Causes of External Yeast Infection – There are several causes of yeast infection and one of the most common is the use of antibiotics. When someone is taking antibiotics what happens is that the medication does its job in killing whatever infection the person is taking it for, but at the same time it will kill the helpful bacteria that keeps yeast cells from multiplying. Some additional causes of yeast infection include a hormonal imbalance, sexual transmission, tight clothing, as well as excessive perspiration.
Symptoms – The most common areas of the body to develop external yeast infection include the vagina, groin, under the arms, as well as around the ears. Symptoms of yeast infection may include burning and itching of the affected area, swelling, and in some cases there may be lacerations. The affected area may also develop patches of skin that are yellow, white or green.
Diagnosis – To diagnose an external yeast infection there is usually an examination and a sample of the skin cells are taken to look at under a microscope. To be sure that the infection is yeast the doctor will culture the sample taken to see if yeast cells have grown after a few days.
Treatment – There are several methods of treating external yeast infection; one of the most common treatments is to buy an over the counter antifungal cream. For vaginal yeast infections there are suppositories that contain antifungal medication. Depending on how severe the infection is, the doctor may also prescribe antifungal tablets or antibiotics. The most important element of curing a yeast infection is to follow the directions of the manufacture or your doctor. If you do not use the medication as directed it will not completely kill the yeast fungus that is causing the infection.
Along with traditional medications there are also some natural methods of treating an external yeast infection. One of the most popular methods of treating a yeast infection naturally is the use of pure, white yogurt on the infected area. It is also necessary to pay close attention to personal hygiene, keeping the infected area clean. You will also want to keep it dry so as to help prevent the growth of the bacteria.
One of the best ways to prevent an external yeast infection is to keep areas that are prone to yeast infection clean, and dry. If you suspect that you may have a yeast infection you will want to consult your doctor to get his or her advice on the best treatment options for your situation.