Yeast infections are uncomfortable and can cause a rash, itching and discomfort. Yeast infections can occur on your skin; on your nipples; or in your mouth, vagina or any other areas where skin stays moist. While there are a variety of medications and treatments available to treat yeast, gentian violet provides rapid, although messy, treatment and relief. However, you should be aware of potential medical complications. Talk to your doctor before using gentian violet to treat any medical condition.
Yeast
The term "yeast" refers to a variety of fungal organisms that can reside on a person's body without causing problems. Occasionally, the yeast overgrows and causes a bright red, painful rash on the skin. Oral yeast presents as white patches in the patient's mouth and vaginal yeast presents as a curdy, white, itchy vaginal discharge. Your health care provider can test for yeast to confirm your diagnosis.
Risk Factors
Most healthy individuals are able to keep yeast cells from causing a yeast infection or rash, but if your immune system becomes compromised, the yeast cells can cause a problem. Pregnant women, newborn babies, people with diabetes and elderly people are at risk of developing yeast infections. If you have recently taken antibiotics, you may be at higher risk of getting a yeast infection.
Gentian Violet
Gentian violet is available over the counter in solution form. This solution will stain clothing, skin and whatever else it comes into contact with, so use caution when preparing to administer the medication. You can apply it to your skin or mouth with cotton swabs, or you can moisten a tampon with gentian violet and place it in your vagina to treat vaginal yeast infections.
Precautions
Only use gentian violet to treat oral thrush in an infant under the direction of your health care provider. Be careful to ensure the infant does not swallow the solution. According to AskDrSears.com, oral gentian violet may increase the risk for oral cancer. Only use gentian violet to treat a diagnosed yeast infection. If the rash, white patches or vaginal discharge worsens with gentian violet, discontinue treatment and seek medical care.
