Yeast Infection

A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. While Candida organisms naturally live on the skin and in the body (such as the mouth, gut, and vagina), certain factors can disrupt the normal balance, allowing yeast to multiply excessively and cause an infection.

Also visit: Vaginal Yeast Infection

In women, vaginal yeast infections are common and can cause itching, irritation, and abnormal discharge. Yeast infections can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the mouth (oral thrush), skin folds, and nail beds. While usually not serious, they can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, lead to more severe infections if untreated, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Other Name(s)

• Candidiasis
• Vaginal yeast infection (for genital cases)
• Oral thrush (mouth)
• Cutaneous candidiasis (skin)

Difference Between Yeast Infection and Similar Conditions

Yeast infections are often mistaken for bacterial vaginosis (BV) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in women. BV typically causes a fishy odor and thin discharge, whereas yeast infections usually cause thick, white “cottage cheese-like” discharge without a strong odor. Unlike trichomoniasis (a parasitic STI), yeast infections do not usually cause a foul smell or frothy discharge.

Difference Between Normal and Abnormal State

Normal:
Candida lives harmlessly in the body as part of the normal microbiome, balanced by other bacteria.

Abnormal (Yeast Infection):
Disruption of the natural microbial balance (due to antibiotics, hormonal changes, or immune issues) allows Candida to overgrow, causing inflammation and symptoms.

Types (and Basic Differences)

• Vaginal yeast infection: Common in women, involving vaginal and vulvar tissues.
• Oral thrush: White patches inside the mouth, common in babies, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
• Cutaneous candidiasis: Skin infections in moist areas (e.g., under breasts, groin, armpits).
• Invasive candidiasis: A serious bloodstream infection, typically in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients.

Causes

• Overgrowth of Candida due to:
  • Antibiotic use.
  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control, menopause).
  • Diabetes (especially if poorly controlled).
  • Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy).
  • High estrogen levels.

Risk Factors

• Recent antibiotic use.
• Pregnancy.
• Diabetes.
• Use of hormonal contraceptives.
• Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing.
• High sugar diet.

Who is Vulnerable/Susceptible?

• Women of reproductive age.
• People with diabetes.
• Immunocompromised individuals.
• Infants and elderly (oral thrush).

Complications

• Recurrent infections.
• Severe systemic infections in immunocompromised individuals.
• Vulvodynia (chronic vulvar pain).

Prevention

• Wear breathable, cotton underwear.
• Avoid douching and scented feminine products.
• Maintain good blood sugar control if diabetic.
• Limit unnecessary antibiotic use.

How Yeast Infection Develops

Balance between normal bacteria and yeast is disrupted → Candida multiplies excessively → inflammation and infection → symptomatic or sometimes asymptomatic presentation.

What Are the Common Symptoms

Possible Symptoms of Yeast Infection:

• Intense vaginal or vulvar itching.
• Thick, white, odorless discharge (“cottage cheese-like”).
• Redness and swelling of the vulva.
• Burning during urination or intercourse.
• Cracked skin in severe cases.

What Other Problems Can Cause This Condition

• Hormonal fluctuations.
• Poor hygiene.
• Compromised immune function.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.

Diagnosis and Tests

• Pelvic exam: Check for redness, swelling, discharge.
• Microscopic examination: Vaginal swab examined for yeast cells.
• Culture: Identifies type of Candida.

Treatment and Therapies

• Antifungal medications:
  • Vaginal creams or suppositories (clotrimazole, miconazole).
  • Oral antifungals (fluconazole).
• Severe or recurrent infections may require longer treatment courses.

Statistics & Disparity

• About 75% of women will have at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime.
• Up to 8% may experience recurrent infections (four or more per year).

Alternative/Complementary Treatment

• Probiotics (limited evidence but may help restore vaginal flora).
• Yogurt with live cultures (some anecdotal benefit).
• Coconut oil and tea tree oil (should be used cautiously).

New Medications for Treatment

• Newer topical antifungals with extended duration.
• Investigational vaccines for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Cost of Treatment and/or Management

• OTC antifungal creams: ~$10–$25.
• Prescription oral medications: ~$20–$100 depending on insurance.

Does Insurance Generally Cover Treatment?

Yes – most health plans cover prescription antifungals.

Prognosis

• Excellent with proper treatment.
• Recurrent cases may need maintenance therapy.

What Happens if No Treatment?

• Persistent discomfort.
• Increased risk of secondary skin infections.
• Rarely, progression to systemic infection in immunocompromised patients.

Related Images (hyperlinks)

• Vaginal yeast infection microscopic view
• Oral thrush example

Survival Rate / Mortality Rate

• Very low mortality for superficial infections.
• Invasive candidiasis has a higher mortality rate if untreated.

Palliative Care

Not generally applicable; focus is on antifungal treatment and symptom relief.

Living with Yeast Infection

• Maintain good hygiene.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid irritants (perfumed soaps, douches).
• Monitor for recurrent episodes and seek early treatment.

New Treatment Approaches

• Ongoing vaccine research.
• Advanced probiotics targeting vaginal flora.

Related Issues

• Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.
• Bacterial vaginosis misdiagnosis.
• Vulvar skin disorders.

Ongoing Research

• Microbiome studies to better understand vaginal flora.
• Resistance patterns of Candida strains.
• New topical delivery systems for antifungals.

Clinical Trials & How to Participate in Clinical Trials

• Visit ClinicalTrials.gov and search “yeast infection” or “vulvovaginal candidiasis.”
• Ask your gynecologist or infectious disease specialist about local trials.

Additional Resources

• CDC – Candida Infections (Yeast Infections)
• Mayo Clinic – Vaginal Yeast Infection
• Cleveland Clinic – Vaginal Yeast Infection
• NHS – Vaginal thrush
• MedlinePlus – Yeast Infections

Source: America Healthline Medical