Steroid Yeast Infection: Top 5 Treatments to Get Rid of Symptoms Fast
What causes yeast infections? How do steroids affect yeast infections? What are the top treatments for steroid-induced yeast infections? Learn the answers to these questions and more.
Causes of Yeast Infections
A yeast infection, or candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast genus Candida, with C. albicans being the most common culprit. C. albicans normally occurs in small amounts within the human body, but some health problems and medications can cause it to grow out of control.
The basic cause of a yeast infection is an imbalance within the body that has allowed the yeast population to explode. Antibiotics, for example, are a common cause of yeast infections as they kill some of the bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, that feed on the yeast and thus keep it under control. Douches also kill off the good bacteria that control yeast populations. Other medications can alter the acidity or pH balance within the vagina and encourage the yeast within to overgrow.
How Steroids Affect Yeast Infections
Steroids increase glucose or sugar levels in the blood. Since the yeast feed on glucose, the increased amount encourages the yeast population to spike. Steroids can therefore cause a yeast infection or exacerbate an existing yeast infection.
What other factors can lead to yeast infections? Hormonal changes, like those caused by pregnancy, can also cause yeast infections. High levels of estrogen increase a woman’s susceptibility to vaginal yeast infections. A weakened immune system, like that in HIV or AIDS patients, also increases the chances of developing a yeast infection.
Top 5 Treatments for Steroid-Induced Yeast Infections
If you are experiencing a yeast infection that may be related to steroid use, there are several effective treatment options:
- Antifungal medications: These can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected area. Common options include fluconazole, miconazole, and clotrimazole.
- Probiotics: Supplements containing beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus can help restore the natural balance in the body and prevent yeast overgrowth.
- Boric acid suppositories: These can be inserted into the vagina to help acidify the environment and inhibit yeast growth.
- Home remedies: Applying yogurt, garlic, or tea tree oil to the affected area may provide relief for some people.
- Lifestyle changes: Wearing loose, breathable clothing, avoiding douching, and practicing good hygiene can all help prevent and manage yeast infections.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms of a yeast infection, it is important to see a doctor. They can properly diagnose the infection and prescribe the most effective treatment. Ignoring a yeast infection can allow it to spread and potentially lead to more serious complications.
Preventing Future Yeast Infections
To help prevent future yeast infections, especially those related to steroid use, there are a few key steps you can take:
- Maintain good hygiene and avoid irritants
- Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
- Limit use of antibiotics, steroids, and other medications that can disrupt the body’s natural balance
- Manage any underlying health conditions like diabetes that can increase yeast infection risk
- Incorporate probiotic-rich foods and supplements into your diet
Seeking Professional Care
If you are experiencing persistent or recurrent yeast infections, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can properly diagnose the infection, rule out any underlying causes, and prescribe the most effective treatment. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment if you are concerned about a yeast infection.
Conclusion
In summary, yeast infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including the use of steroids. Prompt and proper treatment is important to alleviate symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading or becoming more severe. By understanding the causes and taking steps to prevent future yeast infections, you can better manage this common and often frustrating health issue.
Associates in Women’s Health: Gynecologists
Common Causes of a Yeast Infection: Associates in Women’s Health: Gynecologists
A yeast infection, or candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast genus Candida, with C. albicans being the most common culprit. C. albicans normally occurs in small amounts within the human body, but some health problems and medications can cause it to grow out of control.
Yeast infections are most likely to develop in warm and moist areas and thus typically occur in the genitals, the mouth, skin, throat and blood. Yeast infections involving the mouth and/or throat are sometimes called thrush, and those occurring on a baby’s bottom are called diaper rash. A yeast infection that gets in the bloodstream is called candidemia, or invasive candidiasis. While many yeast infections can be mere nuisances, invasive candidiasis can be lethal. Consequently, all yeast infections should be treated by a doctor. The symptoms and treatments of yeast infections vary depending on the location of the infection.
What Causes Yeast Infections?
The basic cause of a yeast infection is an imbalance within the body that has allowed the yeast population to explode. Antibiotics, for example, are a common cause of yeast infections. They kill some of the bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, that feed on the yeast and thus keep it under control. Douches also kill off the good bacteria that control yeast populations. Other medications can alter the acidity or pH balance within the vagina and encourage the yeast within to overgrow. Steroids increase glucose or sugar levels in the blood. Since the yeast feed on glucose, the increased amount encourages the yeast population to spike. Steroids can therefore cause a yeast infection or exacerbate an existing yeast infection. Hormonal changes, like those caused by pregnancy, can also cause yeast infections. High levels of estrogen increase a woman’s susceptibility to vaginal yeast infections.
A weakened immune system, like that in HIV or AIDS patients, also increases the chances of developing a yeast infection. Some types of yeast infections, like thrush, are rarely seen in healthy adults. Invasive candidiasis is also most common in people with compromised immune systems. It is a common cause of lethal bloodstream infections in hospitalized patients. Invasive candidiasis is most common in patients who have recently had surgery, have a catheter and/or are in the ICU. Infants with extremely low birth weights are also at risk of developing invasive candidiasis.
Other health problems associated with yeast infections include diabetes, especially if it has not been appropriately treated or managed. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy can also develop yeast infections. Yeasts infections can be transferred from person to person. Thus, a patient who has a genital yeast infection will give it to their partner. Having many sexual partners therefore increases the chances of getting a yeast infection./vaginal-yeast-infections-overview-3521202_color1-5c773bccc9e77c0001e98dc1-5bc8fbef02bc415b8c2ebbe292936100.png)
Make Your Appointment Today
If you are suffering from a yeast infection or suspect that a yeast infection may be developing, Associates in Women’s Health in Cincinnati is here to help. Our highly trained medical professionals are experts in every aspect of gynecology. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.
Author
Associates in Women’s Health
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Chronic Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness can be a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with it. Safe, effective treatments can reduce today’s symptoms and prevent other symptoms from developing in the future.
5 Practical Ways to Maintain Your Bone Health
As you age, your bones may lose density and become thinner. By taking some important steps, though, you can make changes that help maintain bone mass and protect you from osteoporosis and bone breaks.
Are You Suffering These Telltale Symptoms of Menopause?
Menopause is normal, but that doesn’t mean the symptoms it causes are easy to deal with. Learn about some common menopausal symptoms, along with the types of treatments that provide relief.
Why Older Women Are at Risk for Recurrent UTIs
Older women not only have a greater chance of developing a UTI, but they are also more likely than younger women to have recurrent UTIs. Learn about why this happens, and what you can do to protect yourself.
The Role of the Thyroid in Women’s Health
Although it’s a tiny organ, your thyroid can have an oversized impact on your health. Learn about some of the ways that a thyroid disorder could affect you, your periods, your fertility, and your quality of life.
Is This What’s Causing Your Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Monthly menstrual bleeding is normal, but very heavy periods or bleeding between periods could be signs of trouble. Learn about some common conditions that can lead to abnormal uterine bleeding.
Yeast Infection (Holistic) – Health Information Library
About This Condition
Yeast infection means fungal overgrowth. Vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common reasons women seek healthcare. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Switch to cotton underwear
Avoid the increased risks of yeast infection associated with nylon underwear and tights
- Try beneficial bacteria
To prevent the overgrowth of yeast organisms, eat yogurt containing live acidophilus cultures daily, and use acidophilus topically as vaginal suppositories or a douche
- Ask about problem medicines
Discuss with your doctor whether you can avoid taking antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or adrenal corticosteroids (such as prednisone) that may lead to yeast infection
About
About This Condition
Yeast infections usually result from an overgrowth of a species of fungus called Candida
albicans.
They can occur on the skin, under nails or mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina, bronchi, and
lungs.
Vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common reasons that women consult healthcare
professionals.
Symptoms
Yeast infections are a type of vaginitis. The hallmark symptom of a yeast infection is itching of the external and internal genitalia, which is often associated with a white discharge that can be thick and/or curdy (like cottage cheese). Severe infections lead to inflammation of the tissue and subsequent redness, swelling, and even pinpoint bleeding.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips
According to one study, yeast infections are three times more common in women who wear nylon underwear or tights, than in those who wear cotton underwear.1 Additional predisposing factors for Candida infection include the use of antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or adrenal corticosteroids (such as prednisone).
Underlying health conditions that may predispose someone to Candida overgrowth include pregnancy, diabetes, and HIV infection.
Allergies have also been reported to promote the development of recurrent yeast vaginitis. In a preliminary trial, when the allergens were avoided and the allergies treated, the chronic recurrent yeast infections frequently resolved.2 In most cases, sexual transmission does not play a role in yeast infection. However, in persistent cases, sexual transmission should be considered, and the sexual partner should be examined and treated.
Eating Right
The right diet is the key to managing many diseases and to improving general quality of life. For this condition, scientific research has found benefit in the following healthy eating tips.
| Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|
| Eat a well-balanced diet | A diet low in fats, sugars, and refined foods may help prevent yeast infections. Many doctors also recommend avoiding dairy products, artificial sweeteners, refined carbs, and fruit and fruit juices. Some doctors believe that a well-balanced diet low in fats, sugars, and refined foods is important for preventing vaginal infections caused by Candida. In one preliminary trial, avoidance of sugar, dairy products, and artificial sweeteners resulted in a sharp reduction in the incidence and severity of Candida vaginitis. Many doctors advise women who have a yeast infection (or are predisposed to such infections), to limit their intake of sugar, fruit juices, and refined carbohydrates. For persistent or recurrent infections, some doctors recommend that fruit also be avoided. Another trial found that dramatic increases in intake of several sugars in healthy people partially increased stool sample levels of Candida, but only in 12 out of 28 people. |
Supplements
What Are Star Ratings?
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition.
While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 Stars
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 Stars
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 Star
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
| Supplement | Why |
|---|---|
3 Stars Lactobacillus acidophilus 3 capsules or 1/4 tsp powder, taken by mouth three times daily, or use powder in douche or vaginal suppositories daily | Supplementing with probiotics may prevent the overgrowth of yeast organisms.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a species of friendly bacteria that is an integral part of normal vaginal flora. Lactobacilli help to maintain the vaginal ecosystem by preventing the overgrowth of unfriendly bacteria and Candida. Lactobacillus acidophilus can be taken orally in the form of acidophilus yogurt, or in capsules or powder. It can also be administered vaginally. In a controlled trial, women who consumed 8 ounces of Lactobacillus acidophilus-containing yogurt per day had a threefold decrease in the incidence of vaginal yeast infections and a reduction in the frequency of Candida colonization in the vagina. In another trial, women who were predisposed to vaginal Candida infection because they were HIV-positive received either Lactobacillus acidophilus vaginal suppositories, the antifungal drug, clotrimazole (e.g., Gyne-Lotrimin®), or placebo weekly for 21 months. Compared to those receiving placebo, women receiving Lactobacillus acidophilus suppositories had only half the risk of experiencing an episode of Candida vaginitis—a result almost as good as that achieved with clotrimazole. Many women find relief using an acidophilus-containing yogurt douche daily for a few days or weeks, depending on the severity of the infection. Three capsules of acidophilus or one-quarter teaspoon of powder can be taken orally one to three times daily. Acidophilus can also be taken preventively during antibiotic use to reduce the risk of Candida vaginitis. |
2 Stars Boric Acid Insert vaginal suppositories containing 600 mg twice per day | Boric acid capsules inserted in the vagina have been used successfully as a treatment for vaginal yeast infections. Boric acid |
2 Stars Tea Tree Swish 15 ml of a 5% or less solution in mouth for 30 to 60 seconds four times per day, then spit out | One trial found that a mouthwash with diluted tea tree oil was effective in decreasing the growth of Candida albicans in people with oral Candida infections (thrush). A small, preliminary trial found that a mouthwash with diluted tea tree oil was effective in decreasing the growth of Candida albicans and in improving symptoms in AIDS patients with oral Candida infections (thrush) that had not responded to drug therapy. |
1 Star Cinnamon Refer to label instructions | The essential oil of cinnamon contains various chemicals that are believed to be responsible for cinnamon’s antifungal effects. The essential oil of cinnamon contains various chemicals that are believed to be responsible for cinnamon’s medicinal effects. Important among these compounds are eugenol and cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde and cinnamon oil vapors exhibit extremely potent antifungal properties in test tubes. |
1 Star Echinacea Refer to label instructions | Echinacea, which enhances immune function, has been used successfully to treat yeast infections. Many doctors recommend that people with recurrent yeast infections take measures to support their immune system. Echinacea, which has the capacity to enhance immune function, is often used by people who suffer from recurrent infections. In one study, women who took echinacea experienced a 43% decline in the recurrence rate of yeast infections. |
1 Star Oregano Refer to label instructions | Oil of oregano has been shown to effectively inhibit the growth of Candida albicans. A test tube study demonstrated that oil of oregano, and an extract in the oil called carvacrol in particular, inhibited the growth of Candida albicans far more effectively than a commonly employed antifungal agent called calcium magnesium caprylate. However, clinical studies are needed to confirm these actions in humans. |
Lactobacilli produce lactic acid, which acts like a natural antibiotic.
These women had all previously failed to respond to treatment with conventional antifungal medicines. The suppositories, which contained 600 mg of boric acid, were inserted vaginally twice a day for two weeks, then continued for an additional two weeks if necessary. Boric acid should never be swallowed.
People in the study took 15 ml of the oral solution (dilution of tea tree oil was not given) four times per day and were instructed to swish it in their mouth for 30 to 60 seconds and then spit it out. For use of tea tree oil as a mouthwash, one should not exceed a 5% dilution and should be extremely careful not to swallow the solution.
In a preliminary study in people with AIDS, topical application of cinnamon oil was effective against oral thrush.
References
1. Heidrich F, Berg A, Gergman R, et al. Clotting factors and vaginitis. J Family Pract 1984;19:491-4.
2. Kudelco N. Allergy in chronic monilial vaginitis. Ann Allergy 1971;29:266-7.
- Top of the page
Next Section:
About
Health Information Library
types and diagnostics – “Sensitive”
Yeast fungus is one of the types of mycosis that affects the skin, as well as mucous membranes, nails. Pathogenic yeast for quite a long time does not manifest itself in any way when it enters the human body.
In order for the first symptoms to appear, provoking factors are required. So, for example, a cold, an infection can provoke increased growth and division of Candida fungi, and this already causes the appearance of obvious symptoms that cause discomfort.
The following stimulating factors are involved in the activation of cell division of the fungus
- Prolonged wearing of tight-fitting synthetic underwear
- Being overweight;
- Constant use of hygiene and care products with harmful additives,
- Abuse of sweet foods,
- Treatment with immunosuppressants or immunomodulators;
- Pathologies that suppress the immune system;
- Sudden change in hormonal levels;
- High blood sugar;
- Abuse of steroid drugs;
- Treatment with strong antibiotics.
Yeast fungus localization and symptoms
Yeast fungi can be localized on different parts of the body, scrapings from the mucous membranes, from the skin are taken for diagnosis, feces are analyzed, and the material of the nail plates is analyzed.
The fungus can be localized:
- On the genitourinary organs: localization on the mucous membranes of the genital organs causes thrush, which is called urogenital. The external genital organs suffer, in women the nipples also.
- Oral cavity: most often the fungus affects the child, and can be expressed in diseases such as candidiasis seizures; candidal cheilitis; candidiasis stomatitis; candida glossitis. A fungus that affects the entire oral cavity is called oropharyngeal candidiasis.
- Nails and periungual tissues: more common in men, and can be expressed in such forms as: lateral; distal; proximal; total. The complexity of the treatment of this fungus lies in the fact that the fungus affects most of the nail tissue, which leads to its death.
- Internal organs: the rarest and most dangerous form of the disease, which can be expressed in several forms: candidal endocarditis; gastric candidiasis; candidal meningitis; candidiasis of different parts of the intestine; pulmonary candidiasis; candidiasis of the urinary system; candidiasis of the ears and eyes.
If the fungus is localized on the extremities, then the first symptoms are the appearance of cracks that cause pain and discomfort. Crimson spots, calluses appear, which eventually transform into erosion.
Fungus of the nail plate is manifested by the fact that its color changes to purple, green or black, and if treatment is not started, the entire nail plate is destroyed. On the skin, yeast fungus is manifested by redness and peeling with slight itching. On the scalp, the fungus is also manifested by peeling, itching and dandruff. The defeat of the mucous membranes is expressed by redness, the formation of a white coating, and if the genitals are affected, then discharge with a bad smell begins.
Diagnosis of yeast fungus
In the medical center of Yeysk “Sensitive” a full-fledged comprehensive diagnostics for yeast infection is carried out. For analysis, biological materials such as smears from mucous membranes, scrapings from the skin, nails, head, feces, urine are taken.
The collection of feces and urine allows you to identify a yeast fungus of the internal organs. To determine the urogenital fungus, a swab is taken from the vagina or glans penis. Before prescribing treatment, it is necessary to check the sensitivity of pathogenic microflora to various active substances contained in antifungal drugs.
Other articles:
High cholesterol: is it really bad?
Medicine, like any other science, is constantly undergoing changes. N…
Ophthalmologist in Yeysk: a foreign body in the eye
Everyone in their life at least once faced with a situation when “sorin…
Hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms and treatment
men aged 30-50 years, today…
Treatment of uterine fibroids without surgery
Fibroids are benign tumors that occur in the uterus. It is considered…
Allergist in Yeysk: idiopathic urticaria
Professional allergists see patients in LKK “Sensitiv.
..
sensitivity determinations to antimycotic drugs
Study description
Examination preparation
Indications and general information
Interpretation of the result
Dermatomycosis (dermatophytosis) is a superficial fungal infection that affects only the skin and its appendages (hair, nails). This is the most common group of fungal infections. A group of fungi that cause dermatomycosis is called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes include three biological genera: Trichophyton, Epidermophyton and Microsporum. The sources of infection are a sick person (infection through household items is the most common route of infection), animals (usually puppies and kittens), soil and plant debris.
Clinical manifestations depend on the type of pathogen, localization of the lesion and the state of the human immune system. A fungal infection caused by dermatophytes can be localized in the scalp, beard and mustache, nails, torso, hands and feet, perineum.
It should be noted that dermatophytes can only multiply in the keratinized layers of the epidermis.
Species of the genus Trichophyton affect the skin, hair and nails.
Species of the genus Microsporum affect hair, skin and, very rarely, nails.
Epidermophyton species affect skin and nails but not hair.
Dermatophyte genera are well distinguished by micromorphological and cultural characteristics, therefore the microbiological method occupies an important place in the diagnosis of these infections.
When a fungus colony grows, such signs are noted as the time of appearance and growth rate of the colony, its size, the color of the surface and reverse side, the nature of the surface and its relief, the shape and edge of the colony, its consistency and the presence of ingrowth into the substrate. A microscopic examination is also carried out, evaluating the features of the structural elements of the fungus. In most cases, this allows you to identify the type of pathogen.
What is research used for?
For the identification of fungal infections of the skin, hair or nails.
When is the test scheduled?
If ringworm is suspected, the presence of a characteristic clinical picture. Especially in patients who have been taking antibacterial drugs or steroid hormones for a long time.
Special preparation for the study is not required.
Investigation scheduled prior to starting antifungal therapy. Procedure for collecting nail plates
1. Clean the nail plate with 70% alcohol.
2. Collect biomaterial with a disposable scalpel/curette/disposable perforator.
The most viable and numerous cells of the fungus are found at the site of active
invasion. For research, it is necessary to take material from visible lesions,
preferring the borders of these lesions with still intact nail tissue. With subungual
distal and proximal forms, the pathogen is located under the
nail plate and inside it, with a superficial form – in the surface layers of the plate,
with paronychia – in the posterior nail fold.
The specific area of the nail from which
material should be taken is determined by the type of lesion and the clinical form
of onychomycosis (see table below).
3. Large fragments of the nail plate must be crushed to particles
1-2 mm in size.
4. Place the material in a sterile tube with a yellow cap.
Sufficient amount of clinical material (at least 1 cm2
) should be collected with
taking into account two examinations (microscopy and culture).
5. Label the container according to the referral slip.
Procedure for collecting skin flakes
1. Clean the affected area with 70% alcohol.
2. Collect skin flakes with a disposable scalpel/curette. Using tweezers
, collect some damaged hair with bulbs from the visible lesion.
3. Cut hair with scissors.
4. Place the material in a dry microtube (Eppendorf type) without transport medium
or on a glass slide (cover the top with another slide taken
place the material between the panes in a plastic bag and fix it with a rubber band
).
Sufficient amount of clinical material must be collected (at least 0.5 cm2
)
to allow for two examinations (microscopy and culture).
5. Label the container/slide according to guideline
. If you suspect a lesion with pityriasis versicolor (pathogen Malassezia
furfur), make an appropriate note on the referral form. Hair collection: Hair must be clean and thoroughly dried.
It is not allowed to apply hair care and styling products to the hair before the analysis.
It is recommended to stop using medicated shampoos, anti-dandruff products, mousses, medicated balms and gels 2 weeks before hair analysis.
If you are using Antisedin-type drugs, then their use must be stopped 3 months before the analysis.
Wash hands thoroughly before cutting hair. The use of latex gloves is not recommended.
Hair cutting tool (scissors or razor) must have clean cutting surfaces.
Hair must be carefully cut off (do not pull out!) in the immediate vicinity of the roots in four or five places on the back of the head closer to the neck area.