Clive Anderson - AT THE DERMATOLOGIST YEASTS ARE a type of fungi (microscopic plants) that do not form threads or hyphae when they grow. Several groups of these microscopic organisms are to be found living happily on our bodies. Usually these microorganisms, bacteria, yeasts and fungi do not cause any harm to us. They are called commensals. Under certain conditions they may become pathogenic and cause disease.
There are more than 20 species of Candida; the most common is Candida albicans. These yeasts live on our bodies. It thrives at our body temperature and is normally to be found in the mouth, gut and vagina of most humans.
Under normal circumstances the population of the yeast is kept low by the pH of the environment and the presence, other organisms competing with it for space and resources. The yeast population may become pathogenic if its surroundings become more conducive to its growth such as when there is increased moisture, the temperature is warmer and the pH increases that is, less acidic or if the other competing organisms are removed, such as when we take a broad spectrum antibiotic. Under these circumstances the yeast population increases rapidly and the organisms invade the mucosa causing damage and resulting in illness.
Candidal infections typically occur in moist warm body areas. Usually, the skin is an effective barrier to the yeast but any breaks or cuts in the skin may allow the organism to penetrate. Rarely, the yeast infection may spread through the body. This can only occur if the persons immune system is severely weakened.
Examples of illnesses caused by a yeast overgrowth are vaginal yeast infection, thrush, diaper rash.
Vaginal yeast infections are the result of an excess growth of yeast cells in the vagina. This is the second most common cause for vaginal itching, burning and discharge. These infections are very common in women of childbearing age but can occur at any age. These so-called 'infections', are really an overgrowth, cause great discomfort but rarely lead to serious health problems.
A yeast infection is not a sexually-transmitted infection.
The symptoms of a yeast infection are:
vaginal itching
irritated genital skin
white vaginal discharge that looks like spoilt milk and is odourless.
These symptoms frequently occur during the week before the menses.
Vaginal yeast infection is
easily diagnosed by your health professional, but if there is any doubt, a swab of the discharge may be examined under the microscope or sent to the
laboratory for testing.
YEAST IN MEN
The yeast infection does not usually cause a problem for the male, as the dry environment of the male genitalia is not conducive to the growth of the yeast. In uncircumcised males the area under the foreskin may provide a favourable habitat for the yeast. These males will present with small, red, itchy bumps on the head of the penis. These bumps may appear after sexual intercourse. Usually the balanitis, as the yeast infection of the head of the penis is called, will be short-lived. Yeast infections may be treated at home with over-the-counter medications such as Monistat, Vagistat or Femstat to name a few. If pregnant, consult with your health provider before using. If increased irritation occurs see your health provider.
A wide array of treatment options exists for the treatment of yeast infections. These include creams, lotions, pills and vaginal suppositories. With
proper treatment most Candidal infections will go away quickly but in some individuals recurrences are common. These persons will require investigation and possible prolonged
treatment.
To help prevent a yeast infection:
Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes. Wearing a wet swimsuit for hours may also keep the genital area moist and warm.
Wipe the genital area from front to back to avoid spreading germs to the vagina.
Avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics. Antibiotics can change the normal balance of organisms in the vagina, allowing excess growth of yeasts.
Avoid the use of feminine sprays, talcs, or perfumes in the vaginal area. Also avoid scented toilet paper and deodorant
tampons.
Avoid douching as this may change the normal balance of vaginal organisms.
Control diabetes good control of the blood sugar reduces the risk of yeast
infection.
Eat a well-balanced diet.
Dr. Clive Anderson is a Dermatologist and Venereologist.
