A small amount of yeast usually lives in and on your body, but your immune system keeps the yeast population in check and you normally never notice it. However, in some cases, the yeast multiplies to large quantities, which creates a yeast infection, or candidiasis. This most commonly occur in vaginal areas, but can also develop in other areas. When it occurs in the mouth, for example, it is called thrush. The infections can also develop in the esophagus, on the skin and in the bloodstream, a condition that can be serious or even life-threatening.
Step 1
Use some of the home remedies commonly touted to help clear up vaginal yeast infections. For example, eating yogurt is thought to help because it contains the bacteria lactobacillus. Or try creams containing tea tree oil, which is said to be beneficial against candida infections, notes MayoClinic.com.
Step 2
Wash your vaginal area with soap and water regularly, and dry it thoroughly after bathing, to help remove the overgrowth of yeast.
Step 3
Take the necessary steps to keep your blood sugar level in check if you have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, MedlinePlus reports. Yeast infections are more likely to develop when blood sugar levels are too high.
Step 4
Wear cotton underwear. Also, avoid tight-fitting pants or feminine-hygiene sprays and powders containing perfumes and dyes.
Tips and Warnings
- Babies often develop oral thrush when breastfeeding. In these cases, both the mother and infant should both be treated to prevent the infection from passing back and forth. Evaluate your symptoms to ensure they are those of a yeast infection. Common signs of a vaginal yeast infection include vaginal itching and burning, and a thick, white vaginal discharge. Oral thrust often causes white, cheesy-looking lesions inside your mouth and on the tongue, gums and tonsils. You may also experience pain in your mouth and have a loss of taste. Read through the directions for any medications you are using to ensure you understand how and when to use them. Medications for vaginal yeast infections include both vaginal suppositories and oral medications, so it is important that you understand how your medicine should be taken. Skip douching because it can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
- Other conditions, most commonly other fungal infections, can have similar symptoms, so it's best to see a health professional if you are unsure what you are dealing with. If you have experienced a yeast infection before, treat it at home, but see the doctor if your symptoms do not improve. Purchase an over-the-counter anti-fungal medication designed for yeast infections, or have your prescription filled for any medicines your doctor prescribed to treat the condition. Take any medications as recommended or prescribed. If you self-treat a yeast infection with over-the-counter medicines, see your doctor if symptoms do not improve by the last day of treatment. Also see your doctor if symptoms return shortly after treatment ends. In these cases, you may need a longer course of treatment or stronger medication.
Things You'll Need
- OTC or prescription antifungal medication for yeast infections
- Plain yogurt
- Tea tree oil
