Yeast infections, also called candidiasis, can affect men, women and children. Factors that can make someone more susceptible to getting a yeast infection are: diabetes, high blood sugars, antibiotic use, birth control, wearing damp clothing, wearing a diaper or incontinence brief, having areas of skin that touch (i.e.: armpits, elbows, belly folds, breasts, the back of knees, buttocks, groins) if you have a vagina, are undergoing chemotherapy, taking steroids (IV, oral or inhaled), or having another condition that weakens your immune system. In the mouth, this condition appears as patchy white areas and may first be found due to complaints of sore or dry throat or tongue. On the skin this rash tends to be slightly raised, pink/red, is itchy, and usually spreads if not treated. A yellowish or whitish discharge may form where skin touches. Vaginal white discharge may be noted and is typically itchy.
Getting a diagnosis and starting treatment early for this type of rash typically results in quicker healing. If you take a medication or have a condition that puts you at higher risk for yeast infection, you may need ongoing treatment for prevention. It is important to be seen by your family provider, dermatologist or clinic for rash effecting the skin or mouth. For vaginal concerns, being evaluated by your gynecologist or clinic is advised to ensure it is only a yeast infection and not something more serious. This skin rash is treated with an anti-fungal medication applied to the skin such as nystatin or Monistat. For an oral diagnosis, a solution that is swished in the mouth and swallowed, or a pill such as fluconazole (also known as Diflucan) is given.
Preventive steps to take to avoid having return of yeast infection are relatively easy.
Wash areas at higher risk daily or more frequently if sweating or dirty.
Stay as dry as possible: change out of bathing suits or wet clothes as soon as possible. Dry well after swimming, bathing, and showering. Apply baby powder to help absorb sweat. Wear loose fitting clothes.
Frequently check and change diapers & incontinence briefs.
Apply barrier cream to areas that tend to be damp (i.e.; Desitin, Balmex, or similar) after rash has healed.
If you use an inhaler that contains a steroid, using a spacer and rinsing well with water after each use can be helpful.
Avoid fragrance-enhanced toilet paper
Work with your medical provider to help keep blood sugars under control. Follow a low sugar/low carb diet.
Studies have not shown probiotics to be helpful in the prevention of vaginal yeast infection.
Douching is not recommended for vaginal yeast infections.
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Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
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