How Long Does a Yeast Infection Last?
If Candida is Not Treated, it Can Last For a Long Time
Oct 25, 2009
A yeast infection is not a welcome affliction and anyone who has suffered from one knows the inconveniences that come with it. Those who have had a yeast infection, or "candida," as it is also called, may think that it will last forever. Although it feels that way, the usual time it takes to cure a yeast infection (even if temporarily) is about a week.
Yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of yeast in the body and the medical term is "candidiasis." There are several reasons why this infection occurs in the body, but it is important to note that candida is present at all times and by itself it does not cause the problem. The disease is caused when, due to various internal or external factors, the yeast in the body multiplies, which stops the good bacteria from protecting the body from getting sick.
Factors That Determine How Long a Yeast Infection Lasts
One of the most important and common causes of yeast infections is a prolonged use of antibiotics. Usually antibiotics upset the natural balance of the vagina, causing the fungus of the vaginal walls to overgrow. Many times when a person takes longer to recover from a major illness and antibiotics are taken for a longer time, yeast infections are a common after-effect.
Stress can cause candida as well. A prolonged situation that induces stress is a major factor in recurring yeast infections. Pregnant women are very prone to have yeast infections. Stress makes also men prone to yeast infections.
However, everyone's experience with candida is a bit different in terms of how long it lasts. Some people who have a stronger immune system will get rid of it faster, while others have to put up with it for a week or longer. Others may have an ongoing battle with recurring yeast infections.
Also, the type of treatment employed will play a major role in the time it takes for the infection to clear. The body is capable of stopping the fungus by itself, and sometimes pills hurt more than they help. Also, usually prescription medications are not the best answer to treating yeast infections. Many times, drugs only to clear the symptoms while actually leaving the disease in the body.
Tips on Keeping Yeast Infections Away
Here are a few things that individuals with yeast infections can do to speed recovery:
- Reduce or even eliminate complex carbohydrates and sugar from the daily diet
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing instead of tight garments
- Avoid the use of body sprays and scented soaps
- Use tea tree oil for a few days - one tip is to put 1-2 drops of oil on the tampon before insertion
- Eat yogurt every day for at about a week
Although the yeast infection symptoms can be reduced by over the counter pills and prescription medicine, people have noticed better results using home remedies for yeast infections. Natural ways to cure diseases have been proven to work since ancient times, and candida is no exception. Also, homeopathic treatments fight yeast infections from inside out and eliminate the recurrence of the disease.
One thing is important to be aware of: if the immune system is weak, or there are other more serious issues at hand, such as diabetes, AIDS or other diseases, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Only the light infections in otherwise healthy persons should be attempted to be cured at home using homeopathic remedies.
Source:
about.com/health/, webmd.com
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