Types of yeast infections

There are several types of yeast infections, but they all occur when an area of ​​the body becomes infected with yeast-like fungi called candida (on yeast infections). This fungus thrives in moist, warm, folded areas of the skin, such as the groin, under the breasts, or armpits. Candidiasis is the main type of fungal infection in the body - it's caused by yeast and can occur in the mouth, intestines, throat, and vagina, explains Niket Sonpal , MD, an internist and gastroenterologist in New York. If it is not treated properly with medication, it is likely to grow out of control and infect the kidneys and heart.

Yeast Infection Treatments Products

There are many different types of infections caused by the candida fungus, depending on the location on the body where it occurs and the type of candida present. Although they have some overlap in symptoms, they can also have different symptoms. The most common candida infections are:

• Cutaneous candidiasis happens when the skin on the body is infected. The most typical places where candida will grow are the skin between the fingers or toes, nails, armpits, under the breasts or around the groin. The main symptom is a red, itchy rash.
• Diaper rash in babies can sometimes be caused by candida overgrowth, which occurs when there is a humid environment from wet diapers that help candida thrive. A red rash appears between the skin folds and small red dots represent the infected area.
• Oral thrush occurs when candidiasis affects the lining of the mouth or throat. Oral thrush occurs as white lesions on the inside of the cheeks or on the tongue. Symptoms can also include bad breath, pain when swallowing, taste abnormalities and dry mouth (more on oral thrush).
• Vaginal yeast infections , also called vulvovaginal candidiasis, occurs when there is an overgrowth of candida in the vagina. Candida albicans is a common fungal strain in yeast infections. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are irritation, itching, inflammation, and white, thick vaginal discharge.
• Yeast infections are common and occur in three out of four women at least once in their lifetime, says Dr. Sonpal. Since vaginal yeast infections occur in most women, this article will be specific only for the treatment and prevention of vaginal yeast infections.