Skin Yeast Infection Symptoms
Many people are embarrassed to talk about their concerns or fears when it comes to medical conditions that they don’t fully understand. Although we should be able to take any of our concerns directly to our doctor, many people are unsure about how to broach the subject with their physicians or they simply don’t have the resources or insurance to make a doctor visit possible. Yeast infections are one of those conditions that everyone comes into contact with at some point in their lives, however, they are commonly misunderstood and many people are ashamed to admit it when they are afraid that they have one. It is important for everyone to know that yeast infections don’t only occur in the genital region. In fact, the skin yeast infection is becoming increasingly popular. Knowing how to spot and deal with this condition is very important to your overall health.
If you have never heard of a yeast infection that occurs in the skin, you should know that it is commonly referred to as Candidiasis and it affects millions of people around the world each year. Yeast, or Candida, is a fungus that occurs naturally in small amounts in the warm, moist areas of the body, like the mouth and vagina. However, when certain immune deficiencies and medicines create an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the body, the yeast is often allowed to grow out of control. It is this infestation of yeast that eventually become uncomfortable and is diagnosed as a yeast infection.
The most common form of yeast infection in the skin is common in babies, older people, and those that are overweight. It is known as Intetrigo and commonly occurs in folds of the skin where hygiene may not be at its best. Areas of the body that are at particular risk for developing this kind of yeast infection in the skin are the arm pits, groin, breasts, and the thighs and abdomens of those that might be struggling with obesity. In normally healthy individuals, the skin is able to fight back against the yeast in these areas, and the infection is prevented. However, if the person is sick or bed ridden, or if there are cuts or other breakdowns in the skin, these defenses are greatly weakened. In babies, who have not yet fully developed their abilities to fight off infection, the yeast infection is known to affect the diaper area.
Normally, you can spot a yeast infection which is affecting an area of your skin by looking for a flat red rash that might be forming in skin creases. This rash can develop into painful, flaky areas that are sensitive to the touch. These red patches are usually very itchy, although it is important not to aggravate them by scratching. Usually, your doctor will be able to prescribe you a topical ointment that can be used to alleviate the pain. You might also consider flushing the area regularly with warm water. If you flush the area, be sure to dry it thoroughly, as moisture allows yeast growth.
