Finding an Effective Treatment for Candida
Candida albicans is the cause of the overwhelming majority of vaginal yeast infections. While this fungus (or yeast) is always present in the body, it is normally kept under control by the bacteria that also resides in the body. When, for whatever reason, the body does not produce enough bacteria to control the yeast, an infection occurs. This leaves women seeking a treatment for Candida.
It should be noted that both men and women can suffer from yeast infections. Vaginal yeast infections, however, are the most common type which is why women are most closely associated with the condition.
There are a variety of options for treatment for Candida, but first it is important to be sure that is what you are dealing with. If you have been diagnosed with vaginal yeast infections in the past, then it is likely you will be able to recognize the symptoms.
If this is your first yeast infection, you should visit your doctor to be absolutely sure of the diagnosis. The reason for the caution is that some other types of infections are often mistaken for yeast infections. Some of the other infections require antibiotics or other prescription medication.
Once you are certain it is a yeast infection, these are your options.
Home Remedies
Some women rely only on home remedies as a treatment for Candida. There are several methods and while important to note these have no scientific basis, many women have found them to be helpful.
One of the most popular is the use of yogurt. The thinking is that the bacteria in the yogurt will work in much the same way as the bacteria produced by your body in fighting off the yeast. Plain yogurt is placed in the vagina two to three times a day until symptoms are under control. As a bonus, the cool yogurt offers instant relief to the most annoying yeast infection symptoms, including itching and burning.
Over the Counter Medication
Several years ago, effective treatments for Candida that were once only available with a prescription became available for purchase over the counter.
These medications, such as Monistat or Vagistat, are sold at the same strength as they were when only available by prescription, so they are very effective as treatment for Candida.
However, as mentioned earlier, it is very important to be sure that you are suffering from a yeast infection before beginning treatment.
Prescription Only Medication
In the case of a very stubborn or especially powerful yeast infection, you may need to seek assistance from your doctor. If you have tried the methods that have worked for you in the past, but had no success, your doctor may need to offer a more potent treatment for Candida.
Choosing a treatment for Candida may seem difficult at first, but with all the options available, you are likely to find a treatment that works for you. Whether you choose a home remedy, an over the counter medication or a prescription drug, as long as the treatment works for you, you’ll know how to treat the problem next time should you have a recurrence.
