While a yeast infection is a very common condition, it is often mis-diagnosed or not recognized. The infection is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida species of yeast (a type of fungus) in our body and results in a wide range of disparate symptoms, some of which can be quite subtle.

They call it the ‘hidden fungus’ for a reason

Of course if a women is suffering from a case of vaginal thrush, a man has visible male yeast infection symptoms, or a baby has a severe diaper rash, Candida is usually correctly identified as the cause and treatment is started. But more chronic and seemingly unrelated symptoms such as joint pain, headaches, skin rashes, fatigue, general malaise, itchy ears, bloating, depression, and digestive problems are not always associated with a yeast infection.

The other complication when it comes to yeast infections is the difficulty in identifying causal factors, of which there are many. For example, it is commonly accepted that prolonged use of antibiotics is a risk factor. This is because antibiotics negatively affect the natural balance or microorganisms in the gut – between beneficial bacterial strains such as lactobacillus and bifidobacter and harmful bacteria, Candida causing yeasts and parasites.

A diet high in sugar is also associated with yeast outbreaks as the Candida feeds on sugar. Diabetics too are susceptible due to elevated sugars in the blood and stress and hormonal changes are thought to upset the natural balance of flora in the gut. Topical infections such as vaginal thrush for example can be caught through direct contact with an infected surface, clothing or from a sexual partner.

How to get rid of yeast infection

• The first step is to identify any risk factors and take measure to address them. Don’t take antibiotics, steroids or hormones, unless there is a compelling medical necessity of course.
• Second, follow a Candida diet (also known as a yeast free diet) designed to reduce sugars and refined carbohydrates and eliminate yeasts and molds.
• Third consider taking antifungal supplements such as oregano oil, Caprylic acid, Undecyclenic acid, Isatis tinctoria, Berberine, and emphasizing foods with known antifungal qualities such as raw garlic and live natural yogurts.
• Fourth, begin a course of probiotics to repopulate the gut with healthy bacteria, a process thought to help get rid of yeast infection.
• Sixth, increase fiber intake by taking a soluble fiber supplement such as Psylliun seed. Fiber is thought to improve the absorptive capacity of the gastrointestinal tract and may assist in binding yeast toxins.
• Seventh, use topical antifungal medications for surface infections such as genital thrush.
• Eighth, reduce stress as much as possible.
• More information on yeast infection treatment

In very severe cases and resistant yeast strains, sufferers may need to turn to prescription medications on advice of their doctor. Unfortunately as systemic drugs such as Diflucan, Sporonox and Lamasil have been associated with liver damage and can interact negatively with other medications, their use is often considered as a last resort to get rid of yeast infections.