What Is A Topical Yeast Infection?

By HelloLife

A yeast infection is known by many names: Candida albicans or candidiasis apply to general yeast infections, while vaginal yeast infection and vulvavaginal candidiasis apply to an infection of the vaginal area.The term topical simply refers to a localized body part or surface.

Don't only Women Get Yeast Infections?

Actually, anyone can get a yeast infection, even babies. Yeast is found naturally all over our bodies, not only in the digestive tract and vagina like most think. A person can have a yeast infection of any surface of their body, but yeast infections are commonly found in warm, moist areas like under the arms, under folds of skin, under babies diapers and between the toes and fingers. It's important to keep these areas clean and dry.

The Elderly

The elderly are particularly susceptible to yeast infections especially if they are immobile for prolonged periods of time. It's hugely important to keep skin washed regularly. Yeast infections can form in the folds under the breasts and abdomen, as well as in the nail beds and between fingers and toes. Yeast infections can even form in the mouth and around dentures, so be sure these are cleaned well. They can cause a rash, itching and sometimes painful discomfort. Topical yeast infections like these can be cured quite easily, however to spare someone from the discomfort, it's easier to prevent an infection from happening in the first place.

Infants

Infants are prone to yeast infections in the diaper area and mouth. When the infection occurs in the mouth, it is called thrush and appears as thick white patches over a red surface (the tongue, throat, etc). Infants with thrush will have a hard time swallowing, so be sure they stay well hydrated. If your infant shows signs of a yeast infection or thrush, be sure to seek professional support right away.

Men

Believe it or not, men can get a topical yeast infection. In addition to the places mentioned above such as nail beds, between the fingers and toes, and in folds of skin, men can get yeast infections on their genitalia as well. Usually appearing as penile irritation and itching, penile yeast infections can be passed from one partner to another, it a condom is not used. In this sense, a monogamous couple not using condoms could potentially pass a yeast infection back and forth endlessly. Obviously, the idea is to abstain from sex if you have signs or symptoms of a yeast infection, or if you do have sex to be sure to use a condom.

Preventing Yeast Infections

To prevent a yeast infection, keep the skin dry and clean as mentioned above.Maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, practice safe sex and keep your immune system well balanced.Avoid fragranced or deodorizing tampons, pads or sprays as these may irritate the skin further.Wear looser fitting clothes, change diapers often and change out of wet swimsuits as soon as possible.Antibiotics can trigger yeast infections, so stay healthy and avoid taking them if possible.

[sniplet Candidol]