Yeast Infection Causes - Part 2

Yeast Infection Causes - Part 2

Any discussion of the causes of yeast infections is bound to spark debate, and not just in the medical community. People who suffer from this relatively common malady also have their own opinions. Though not necessarily based on solid medical research, these opinions are based on something that in many cases is equally convincing, and that is their own personal experience. Here are a few of the known main causes of yeast infections.

Yeast infections are one of the most common culprits when it comes to vaginal burning, itching, and discharge. Yeasts are commonly found in the vagina. It's natural and some level of yeast growth is perfectly normal. The problem arises when yeast overgrowth occurs because of changes in the environment in the female body, particularly changes in the natural chemical balance in the vagina. Antibiotics and use of steroids are two common reason for abnormal growth of yeast. However, pregnancy, menstruation, sperm, diabetes, and birth control pills also are contributors when it comes to getting a yeast infection. It is known that yeast infections are more common after menopause.

In people who have a weakened immune system because of cancer treatments, steroids use or diseases such as AIDS, it is possible for yeast infections to occur not just in the vagina, but throughout the entire body. In these cases the yeast infection can be a life-threatening concern. The most frequently affected parts of the body include the blood, the brain, the eyes, the kidney, and the heart. But the candidal fungus has also been known to grow in the lungs, liver, and spleen. So you can see that for people with lower levels of the body's natural immune factors, a yeast infection can potentially be far more serious than just temporary discomfort. It's important to note that candida is the leading cause of esophagitis ( an inflammation found in the throat) in people with AIDS.

Approximately 15% of people with weakened immune system (caused by the above mentioned factors) end up developing a systemic illness caused by Candida. The infections generally enter the bloodstream directly through cuts in the skin and/or mucous membranes. Candidal organisms also may increase in volume in a particular area because of frequent use of antibiotics, which kill "good" bacteria in the body that normally keep the organisms under control.

Another cause of yeast infections, although less common than those mentioned above are the use of medical devices implanted into and under the skin. These include such things as urinary catheters and intravenous tubes that provide easy access for the yeast to enter the body. An example of a non-medical primary cause of a major yeast infection could be an intravenous drug user who shares dirty needles and injects the yeast directly into their own bloodstream and/or deep tissues.

So that covers some of the less common, but potentially more serious yeast infection causes. Of course, any discomfort in the vaginal regional should be brought to the attention of one's doctor, even if you are a chronic yeast infection sufferer. An infection of any sort can easily become a far more serious issue than simple itching or burning discomfort. The old saying "better safe than sorry" certainly applies to ones own treatment of yeast infections.

If you are a chronic sufferer of milder yeast infections that don't require medical intervention, yet affect your lifestyle, you may want to check out this all natural method of controlling yeast infections and living a better overall lifestyle. Till next time...