Yeast infections result from overgrowth of Candida, a group of fungi normally present on the body. Common manifestations include vulvovaginal candidiasis, oral thrush, and nail or skin infections. Mild cases often respond to topical azoles or a single oral fluconazole dose; recurrent, severe, or systemic infections require medical evaluation and targeted treatment. Prevention focuses on managing risk factors like antibiotics, diabetes, and tight clothing.

What is yeast?

Yeasts are single-celled fungi. Many species can ferment sugars to produce alcohol and carbon dioxide, which is why they are used in bread and alcohol production. Fermentation can occur without oxygen, but many yeasts are facultative - they can also use oxygen for respiration.

Most medically relevant yeasts belong to the fungal group Ascomycota, which reproduce using sac-like structures called asci. Familiar edible fungi such as morels are also in this group.

What causes a yeast infection?

A "yeast infection" usually means an overgrowth of Candida species, especially Candida albicans, on skin or mucous membranes. Candida lives on the body normally in small amounts. Infection can happen when the balance between the yeast and the body's normal bacteria changes.

Common triggers include recent antibiotic use, uncontrolled diabetes, pregnancy, hormonal changes, tight or nonbreathable clothing, and weakened immunity.

Common types and symptoms

  • Vulvovaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection): intense itching, burning, redness, swelling of the vulva, and a thick, white ("cottage cheese") discharge.
  • Oral thrush: white patches or soreness on the tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth.
  • Nail or skin Candida infections: redness, soreness, or changes to the nail plate.
  • Invasive candidiasis (candidemia): when Candida enters the bloodstream; this is uncommon in otherwise healthy people but can be serious in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients.
Yeast infections are typically not classified as sexually transmitted infections, although sexual partners can pass Candida back and forth if one partner has symptoms. Treating both partners can help when reinfection seems likely.

Diagnosis and treatment

Mild vulvovaginal and some skin Candida infections are often treated with over-the-counter topical antifungals (e.g., miconazole, clotrimazole). A single oral dose of fluconazole (prescription) is another common option for uncomplicated vaginal infections.

If symptoms are severe, recurrent (four or more episodes a year), first-time, occur during pregnancy, or do not respond to OTC or initial prescription treatment, see a clinician. Laboratory testing can identify the Candida species; some species (for example, Candida glabrata) respond less well to azole medicines and require different therapy.

Invasive candidiasis requires prompt medical care and systemic antifungal treatment in a hospital setting.

Prevention and self-care

Simple measures can reduce risk: control blood sugar if diabetic, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, wear breathable cotton underwear, avoid douching or strong vaginal cleansers, and change damp clothing promptly. Evidence for probiotics preventing recurrences is mixed.

When to contact a doctor

Seek medical attention for:

  • first-time or very severe symptoms
  • symptoms that do not improve after treatment
  • recurrent infections (4+ per year)
  • pregnancy, fever, or signs of systemic illness
Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment help prevent complications and recurrent problems.

FAQs about Yeast Infection

Are yeast infections sexually transmitted?
Yeast infections are not usually classified as sexually transmitted. However, sexual partners can transfer Candida to each other, and treating both partners may help prevent reinfection when transmission seems likely.
Can I treat a vaginal yeast infection with over-the-counter medicine?
Yes. Many uncomplicated vaginal yeast infections respond to OTC topical antifungals such as miconazole or clotrimazole. A prescription oral drug (fluconazole) is another option. See a clinician if it is your first episode, symptoms are severe, you are pregnant, or symptoms don't improve.
When is a yeast infection dangerous?
Invasive candidiasis (Candida in the bloodstream) is uncommon but serious, mainly affecting hospitalized or immunocompromised people. Seek immediate care if you develop fever, chills, or signs of systemic illness.
What causes recurrent yeast infections?
Recurrent infections can stem from untreated risk factors such as diabetes, frequent antibiotic use, hormonal changes, or infection with Candida species less responsive to standard azole therapy. Medical evaluation and species testing can guide treatment.
Do probiotics prevent yeast infections?
Evidence is mixed. Some people report benefit, but strong clinical evidence that probiotics reliably prevent recurrent yeast infections is limited.

News about Yeast Infection

Small rise in serious yeast infections - GOV.UK [Visit Site | Read More]

The Link Between Iron and Yeast Infections - Everyday Health [Visit Site | Read More]

A Complete Beginner's Guide to the Candida Diet - health.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Could Your Dog Have a Yeast Infection? - Daily Paws [Visit Site | Read More]