Yeast Infection Relief

Skin Yeast Infection

Most yeast infections of the human skin are caused by the fungus Candida, of which over 20 different species exist. The most common species found for skin yeast infection is the Candida albicans which is responsible for the skin irritations that so many of us suffer. There are large numbers of micro-organisms, including these fungi, which live naturally on all surfaces of the body. Some of these micro-organisms are friendly and beneficial to the body and others have no effect at all, until something happens to cause them to change and grow - this causes a fungal infection.

Candida albicans is capable of infecting any area of the skin and mucous membranes of the body, but it prefers warm, damp places. This is why most fungal infections occur in the groin, underarms, under a woman’s breast, on the genitals or in the mouth. Infections of the mucous membranes, particularly of the genital area, can be contagious by direct or indirect contact.

Certain people are more at risk of contracting skin yeast infection - babies in diapers and nappies, obese and overweight people, pregnant women, women who take a contraceptive pill, those who have been on antibiotic medication for an extended period, people with an auto-immune disease like HIV and those who work in wet conditions.

Symptoms can range from mildly irritating to extremely uncomfortable. They include itching, swelling, redness, discharge, scaling and blistering of the affected area. A doctor will make an accurate diagnosis by looking at the affected skin and by taking a skin scraping for microscopic examination.

Some of the most common yeast skin infections include thrush in the mouth and throat, common in diabetics and HIV/AIDS sufferers; intertrigo which affects the folds of the skin in areas like the underarms, the groin, breasts and abdomen in obese people; diaper or nappy rash in babies; candida vulvovaginitis of the vagina; erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica in the finger webs, common in people who work in wet areas; athletes foot or tinea between the toes; and paronychia of the nail.

There are several over-the-counter medications that are readily available to treat the common forms of yeast skin infections. They consist of a topical cream or lotion, an oral tablet or suppositories, depending on the product and particular condition. Natural treatment alternatives can also be considered.

Prevention is always the better option. Practice a high personal hygiene standard and maintain good general health. A skin yeast infection is most likely to occur when other skin or health problems are present. Wash and carefully dry commonly affected areas of the skin; don’t share towels with other people; wear clothing, particularly underwear, that is made of cotton or wool which allow the skin to breathe; change clothes and socks regularly and remove wet clothing as soon as possible; sandals and leather shoes are preferable to joggers; wash your hands well after touching any affected areas and applying creams.

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