Yeast infections occur in 3 out of 10 people. This is one of the reasons why many do not know about them. Those who have experienced it themselves or know someone who has. Yeast infections are caused by fungi. It is caused by about 20 species of fungi.
There are three primary regions that yeast infects. These are the throat, the genital area and the nails. Each area is infected by a different species of yeast. Fungal spores are naturally present in the human digestive system. They are kept in check by the body’s immune system. Yeast infections occur when the immune system can no longer keep fungi at bay.
Throat infections: Children are more susceptible to this form of yeast infection. It manifests itself in the form of lesions inside the mouth and on the tongue. The lesions are white and look like cottage cheese. The lesions can bleed if scratched and can be quite painful. Diagnosis of this condition is simple. The doctor looks for lesions and may take a sample to confirm the diagnosis. A similar condition known as strep throat also has the same symptoms and therefore a sample is needed. Most of the time no treatment is required in children. Adults are prescribed medications to kill the yeast.
Genital infections: They happen to both men and women, although they are more common in women. There are several ways it can manifest, such as vaginitis, vulvavitis, etc. It can also manifest as an infection of the gastrointestinal tract, infection of the urinary bladder or in the genitals. The initial symptoms are redness, itching and discomfort. This is followed by the appearance of red patchy sores on the head of the penis. In women, symptoms are itching, burning, pain, and a white or gray curd-like discharge. A swab or scraping is taken to diagnose the yeast species and appropriate medication is prescribed.
Nail infections: These occur mainly in the toenails. This is because the toes are closed in shoes and socks for much of the day. This creates the ideal conditions for yeast to grow. The yeast begins to grow under the nail. Consumes the nail as it extends. This makes the nail appear discolored, jagged, and rough. The nail also begins to separate from the nail bed. If left untreated, the nail will eventually fall off. This can be treated by applying topical creams to the affected nail. In severe cases oral medication is also prescribed. Laser treatments are also available to cure fungal nail infections.