Candidiasis is the medical term for yeast infection. It derives its name from a species of fungus called candida. It is very common among the human population and can occur all over the body. Areas in the human body which are generally warm and moist are more prone to yeast infection. It is not difficult to cure a yeast infection in a person, who lives a hygienic life, eats a balanced diet and has strong immune system,

Yeast and fungi are present in every human being. But their presence is checked by the immune system of the body and also by some other bacteria and enzymes (probiotics) present in the body as well. The infection occurs when this balance is disturbed and the yeast is allowed to multiply without check. They affect the area which is conductive to their growth, such as:
1.    Between the toes; this is prevalent in the athletes, who were closed toed shoes for a long period. Warmth and moisture from the perspiration encourages growth of the yeasts.
2.    In the vaginal area of women and also on the male genitals.
3.    In the mouth and the diaper area of the babies
4.    Inside the mouth of the elder people who use dentures
5.    Under the arms, under the breast or in the folds of skin which generally moist and warm.

Sometimes the fungus enters the body though open wounds or other skin conditions and cause infection inside the body, especially in the digestive track. In rare condition it also affects the blood. When it does so, it may become life threatening. Such people must have regular medical check up and must keep records of unusual patches and pains to be reported to the doctor on the next visit.

Before we learn how to get rid of a yeast infection, we must learn to identify one. The symptoms depend upon the locality of the infection. But as a general rule, yeast infection give rise to redness, itchiness and discomfort. Symptoms of oral thrush or the yeast infection in the mouth result first in redness of the tongue and the palette or inside the cheek followed by a thick whitish covering which is hard to remove.

Vaginitis or the yeast infection in the vaginal area causes extreme burning, itchiness or sourness. Sometimes there can be a milky white curd like discharge from the affected area. Penile infection causes red, burning, itching rash near the end of the penis or under the foreskin and sometimes has colored discharge.

Yeast infection on other parts of the body starts with redness of the area followed by slight itch and a burning sensation. Soon they develop scalloped edges with increased itchiness and burning sensation.

Treatment for yeast infection depends on the infected are. Yeast infection medication can be traditional, herbal, homeopathic, allopathic over- the- counter drugs or prescription drugs. But it is important to note that to cure yeast infection we must keep a balance of pH level (about 6.4, which is neither acidic, nor alkaline) in the body. This can be done by avoiding excessive grains, dairy products, sugar, dietary yeast and most processed food and junk foods. One should include plenty of raw vegetables in the diet. Adequate sleep, moderate exercise and healthy life style keep the body condition conductive to cure.

Keeping the immune system healthy often helps to avoid taking antibiotics in the first place. Though the antibiotics prescribed by the doctors have their usefulness, they also kill the good bacteria which help to keep the multiplication of the fungus in check along with the infections. Yoghurt and other natural remedies have been used over the ages and modern researches have shown their usefulness and also the wisdom of our ancestors.

Yoghurt and medicines made with yoghurt as base keeps the immune system intact, the pH level balanced and the probiotics which stops multiplication of the fungus active. There are many herbal medicines which are good as yeast infection medication such as Candidate, Immune plus etc. Vagi-soothe are homeopathic medicine which relieves burning and itching sensation immediately. There are other over the counter oral medicines and creams which are very good.

But if the problem occurs again and again, one should go to see the doctor. Fluconazol is the first choice of medicine for yeast infection, especially in the vagina. Itraconazol is also a popular brand. Ketokonazol is no longer used because it may damage the livers. These medicines work by killing the fungus responsible for the infection. Since these do not provide immediate relief local medicines such as creams, lotions and oils have to be used. But it is for the doctor to prescribe the medication and if your infection recurs, please see a doctor immediately.