Understanding Yeast Infections: Symptoms, Causes, and Impacts
Yeast infections aren’t just a women’s issue or limited to the vagina. In fact, they can occur in various parts of the body for both men and women, regardless of age. These infections can lead to pain, swelling, and unpleasant discharge. When they affect the mouth, it can feel cottony and impair your sense of taste. On the skin, a yeast infection might cause cracking, swelling, or even bleeding. Surprisingly, new research indicates that yeast infections could be linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and neurological issues.
What Causes a Yeast Infection?
The primary culprit behind yeast infections is a type of yeast called Candida, especially Candida albicans. Other common strains include Candida krusei, Candida glabrata, and Candida parapsilosis. Candida is a fungal yeast that naturally exists on everyone’s body, which is normal and typical. However, maintaining a proper balance is crucial. An imbalance can lead to an overgrowth, particularly in dark, moist areas like the mouth or skin folds, often due to systemic imbalances or poor hygiene.
More serious is a condition known as invasive candidiasis, which occurs when the fungus enters the bloodstream. This type of infection can quickly become severe. Additionally, individuals with conditions like psoriasis and eczema are more prone to oral Candida infections.
Identifying a Yeast Infection
Early identification of a yeast infection is essential. Yeast overgrowth means the yeast is multiplying on your body, and the longer you wait, the worse it can get. Ignoring it allows a simple overgrowth to turn into a serious problem. A yeast infection usually makes its presence known. Here are some signs you might have a yeast infection:
Discharge
The discharge from yeast infections is often creamy and cottage cheese-like, originating from lesions. In the mouth, these lesions might appear on the tongue, tonsils, the roof of the mouth, or inner cheeks, making the tongue look white. On the skin, lesions show up as small blisters around the infected area. Vaginal yeast infections produce a watery and white to thick and chunky discharge.
Redness
Yeast infections on the skin appear as reddish or purplish spots, resembling eczema or psoriasis. The vulva of an infected woman may look redder than usual and be highly sensitive.
Itching
One of the more frequent and sometimes painful symptoms is itching, affecting the vagina, vulva, or penis (especially in uncircumcised men). This itching can create a burning sensation. Avoid scratching as it will only worsen the infection. Ozonated olive oil may offer some cooling relief.
Cracking Skin
Skin around the mouth or the site of the infection may crack and bleed. This is a sign that the body is fighting the infection, but it also provides a potential site for further infection. Keeping the area clean and using a soothing balm that promotes wound healing is critical.
Swelling
The infected area is likely to swell as the body tries to combat the Candida fungus. Swelling can occur in the mouth, sex organs, and skin, as well as in the intestines if the infection is internal. Swelling generally brings tenderness.
Discomfort
Advanced cases of candidiasis can cause consistent discomfort and tenderness due to swelling, itching, and burning. Vaginal yeast infections may also result in painful urination and intercourse.
IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
IBD is caused by inflammation in the intestines. While bacterial infections are known culprits, researchers are now exploring the role of yeast, particularly Candida, in causing intestinal irritation. Studies have linked Candida to the development of certain types of bowel disease.
Fatigue
Internal yeast infections often cause fatigue. Those suffering from chronic candidiasis syndrome or a Candida-related complex may experience symptoms similar to chronic fatigue syndrome, though with chronic flu-like symptoms distinguishing it.
Mood Disorders
Emerging research suggests that micro-nutrients can help combat depression, but only if the body can properly absorb them. Candida has been shown to inhibit intestinal absorption, potentially worsening mood disorders. When Candida infections clear up, mental health may see improvement.
