Thrush is the name commonly given to candidosis. This is a yeast infection that can affect moist areas of the body. It is especially common in the vagina. (Other areas that can be affected by thrush include the mouth, the bowel, and skin folds.)
Candida is a yeast that inhabits the vagina and digestive tract. One particular species, Candida Albicans, is primarily responsible for causing it. Most people have a small amount of the candida fungus in their bodies. It is normally kept under control by the bodyÕs immune system and by other harmless (or ‘good’ bacteria). Thrush can develop when the good bacteria in your body is destroyed. For example, if you are taking antibiotics, the antibiotics will not distinguish between good and bad bacteria and will destroy both types.
If you are run down and your immune system is weak, the candida fungus that causes thrush may also multiply and initiate a yeast infection. HIV and Diabetes sufferers are at increased risk of developing thrush. An unbalanced or inappropriate diet may also predispose towards chronic form.
Symptoms of Vaginal Thrush
The most common symptoms of a candida yeast infection include itching, soreness, and vaginal discharge. There may also be pain during intercourse and a stinging sensation upon urination. Less common symptoms include swelling or redness of the vagina and vulva and cracked skin around the entrance to the vagina.
Medical professionals often refer to ‘uncomplicated thrush‘ or ‘complicated thrush‘. The former refers to mild and rare symptoms, while complicated cases are defined as severe case with recurrence more than four times in one year.
Alongside acupuncture, dietary guidelines can be very effective at preventing chronic form from reoccurring. Most patients report a marked improvement in their symptoms after one acupuncture session.
Tips for Preventing Yeast infections
Candida grows in warm and moist conditions, so the genital region in men and women should be dried thoroughly after bathing, and the wearing of sweaty clothes should be avoided.
Perfumed soaps and shower gels should be abandoned for simple, unfragranced alternatives.
