A yeast infection is a problem caused by the overgrowth of a type of fungus called candida. The yeast may infect the vagina, mouth, or other moist areas on the skin.
A yeast infection is also called candidiasis.
It’s normal to have some yeast in the rectal and vaginal areas. Yeast causes trouble only when there are too many yeast organisms. Sometimes the yeast grows quickly and if it grows out of control it causes an infection.
Several things may cause an overgrowth of yeast:
Yeast infections may be more likely if you have diabetes, especially when the blood sugar level is too high.
A yeast infection is usually not spread by sex.
You may not have any symptoms. In women symptoms may include:
In men, the yeast can cause swelling and redness of the penis and foreskin. Yeast infections of the penis are more common when the penis is uncircumcised.
If your mouth is infected, the lining of the mouth may be red and sore. You may have white patches in your mouth and on your tongue. This is called thrush.
Yeast infection of the skin causes an itchy red rash that may have small red bumps around the red area. It’s most common in areas that stay warm and moist, like under your breasts, in your groin, or in any area where there are skin folds. Yeast can also cause infections of your nails, cuticles, and at the corner of your mouth.
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history and examine you. The diagnosis may be clear from your symptoms and your exam. Your provider may collect samples of cells from places where you are having symptoms, such as the mouth, vagina, or skin, to check for yeast.
Medicines are used to treat yeast infections. The kind of medicine depends on where you have the infection, and how severe the infection is.
If you have tried nonprescription medicines and they have not worked for you, your provider may prescribe a medicine that is taken by mouth. Take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Usually only one or two doses are needed. Yeast infections on the skin can take a long time to heal. If you do not think the medicine is helping, call your healthcare provider. Don’t increase how much you take or how often you take it without talking to your healthcare provider first.
Follow the full course of treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider. In addition:
Take care of your health. Try to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Eat a healthy diet and try to keep a healthy weight. If you smoke, try to quit. If you want to drink alcohol, ask your healthcare provider how much is safe for you to drink. Learn ways to manage stress. Exercise according to your healthcare provider's instructions.
Ask your healthcare provider:
Make sure you know when you should come back for a checkup. Keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.
Here are some things you can do to help prevent yeast infection: