Yeast Infections: Not Just a Women’s Issue
Yeast infections aren’t just a problem for women or limited to the vaginal area. They can affect various parts of the body in both men and women of all ages. These infections can cause pain, swelling, and unpleasant discharge. When they occur in the mouth, they can make it feel cottony and impair the sense of taste. On the skin, they can cause cracking, swelling, or bleeding. Surprisingly, recent research suggests that yeast infections might be linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and neurological dysfunction.
What Causes a Yeast Infection?
The most common culprit behind yeast infections is a type of yeast called Candida, particularly Candida albicans. Other types like Candida krusei, Candida glabrata, and Candida parapsilosis are also significant. Candida is a fungal yeast that naturally exists on the body. It’s normal to have it, but it needs to be balanced. If there’s an imbalance, dark, moist areas—especially the mouth and skin folds—can experience overgrowth due to systemic imbalance or poor hygiene.
A more severe issue, known as invasive Candidiasis, can occur when the fungus enters the bloodstream, becoming a serious concern quickly. Some people are at higher risk for yeast infections, such as those with psoriasis and eczema, who are more likely to suffer from oral Candida infections.
Identifying a Yeast Infection
It’s crucial to identify a yeast infection early. An overgrowth means that yeast is reproducing on your body, and the longer you wait, the higher the count may become. Ignoring it can turn a simple overgrowth into a serious issue. A yeast infection is like an unwelcome houseguest—it usually makes its presence known. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you might have a yeast infection:
Discharge
The creamy, cottage cheese-like discharge common with yeast infections comes from lesions. In the mouth, these lesions can appear on the tongue, tonsils, roof of the mouth, or inner cheeks, making the tongue look white. On the skin, lesions appear as small blisters around the infected area. Vaginal yeast infection discharge can range from watery and white to thick and chunky.
Redness
On the skin, a yeast infection shows up as reddish or purplish spots, similar to eczema or psoriasis. The vulva of an infected woman may appear redder than usual and be much more sensitive.
Itching
Frequent and potentially painful irritation occurs as a result of infected skin and tissue in the vagina, vulva, or even penis (especially in uncircumcised men). This can create a burning sensation and an urge to itch. Avoid scratching as it will only worsen the infection. Ozonated olive oil may provide cooling relief.
Cracking Skin
The skin around the mouth or localized around the dermal infection may crack and bleed. While this indicates that the body is fighting the yeast infection, cracking and bleeding create a site for further infection. Keep it clean and use a soothing balm that encourages wound healing.
Swelling
The infected area will likely swell as the body fights off the Candida fungus. Swelling can occur in the mouth, sex organs, and skin, as well as in the intestines if a Candida infection occurs internally. Swelling usually accompanies tenderness.
Discomfort
When advanced enough, Candidiasis can result in constant discomfort and tenderness due to the swelling, itching, and burning associated with the infection. A vaginal yeast infection can cause uncomfortable urination and intercourse.
IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
Intestinal inflammation causes IBD. While bacterial infections have been linked as a cause, researchers are beginning to understand the role of yeast, specifically Candida, in intestinal irritation. Studies have linked Candida to the development of some types of bowel disease.
Fatigue
Patients suffering from internal yeast infections frequently experience fatigue. Individuals with a Candida-related complex, or chronic candidiasis syndrome, share similar symptoms to those with chronic fatigue syndrome. The main difference is the chronic flu-like symptoms experienced by those with chronic fatigue.
Mood Disorders
There is growing evidence that supports the use of micronutrients to combat depression. However, nutrition is only valuable when the body can absorb it. If absorption is hampered, micronutrients won’t be effective. Candida has been found to inhibit intestinal absorption, and mood disorders can worsen during periods of Candida infection. When Candida clears up, mental status may improve.
