Do You Have A Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection, known as candidiasis in scientific circles, and sometimes referred to as thrush, is best known for causing a white or whitish discharge in sufferers. If left undiagnosed, a yeast infection could lead to more serious diseases, which, in a person with a weakened immune system, could even be life-threatening.

Here are 10 signs you might have a yeast infection.

These 5 general symptoms will almost always be present no matter which kind of candidiasis you have.

1. The affected body part itches severely. Yeast infections prefer to grow in locations where scratching is diificult, such as the mouth or the vagina. Skin affected by a yeast infection will have red rashes, which may be more noticeable on skin with hair growing on them.

2. The affected body part feels like it burns, or is sensitive to the touch. This may or may not include blisters or itchiness. On the other hand, the same body part can have a tingly or numb feeling.

3. Sensitivity to certain chemicals is heightened. Items that cause reactions include antibiotics, sugar, refined carbohydrates (also known as most processed food), and of course, yeast.

4. Your coordination may be affected. Sufferers cannot balance themselves or move the way they want. They cannot focus on tasks, and become lazy through no fault of their own. Mood swings and heightened negative emotions are other indicators.

5. In genital and digestive systems there is a white or whitish mucous discharge. In the mouth, there are white or whitish patches. Both the discharge and the patches have the consistency and smell of bread or a light cheese, though the smell can also be associated with beer.

There are also symptoms specific to the body parts affected by candidiasis, five of which are listed below.

1. In gastrointestinal candidiasis, the digestive system is upset. The stomach in particular either bloats with constipation, or it acts up due to diarrhea or abdominal cramps (or, at times, both). Bowel movement is not spared either, because yeast infection can cause irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Women are the primary sufferers of genitourinary candidiasis (associated with reproductive organs and the urinary system), but men are also susceptible, and not just through sexual intercourse. Ladies may have unusual menstrual cramps while gentlemen may have prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland). Having sex is painful and urination becomes more urgent for sufferers of yeast infection.

3. Oral candidiasis causes dryness inside the mouth. The tongue cracks and the gums bleed. Fissures appear at the corners of the mouth. Swallowing becomes difficult.

4. In respiratory candidiasis, persistent coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath can manifest. Another indicator is when the chest constantly tightens or is in pain.

5. Candidiasis causes chronic inflammation and irritation of the eye and the conjunctivae (the mucous that covers the white area of the eye). The retina (the nerve-ended part which captures images for the brain) may defend itself against yeast infection by collecting pus inside an inflamed tissue pocket. This may permanently damage the sufferer’s eyesight.

There are many other sources of information on yeast infections, including the website . Do your research and be sure to visit your health practitioner.

One last note of caution: despite the fact that you can name ten signs you might have yeast infection, you may actually suffer no symptoms at all. Or you may bear symptoms similar to those of other sicknesses. If you feel that something is wrong (whether on the above list or not) but cannot put a finger on it, be sure to consult a doctor.