YEAST INFECTION – SYMPTOMS, CAUSES AND TREATMENTS

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Can yeast cause blisters in the mouth in an infant?
   My daughter has had several ear infections in the last 3 months. She's about 15 months old. The antibiotics have given her a yeast infection, and we are using a prescribed cream in her diaper area. She has had 3 cold sores in her mouth this week as well, and my fellow-mom-friends said that that can also be caused by yeast. Is that true?

   • ANSWER:
     Yes it can... 2 of my children had this, and also many friends children... It's called Thrush... I'd go to the doctor to get some medication for this.. as it can spread and be very painful for your baby.. best wishes

2. QUESTION:
   Can a woman have yeast infection in her mouth?
   i think my bf has yeast infection and i give him oral sex , so i am just curious if this can be passed on to me and what are the signs of a yeast infection in the mouth?
   your answers are greatly appreciated.
   yeah, i also see very few tiny bumps under the head of his penis.

   • ANSWER:
     It could be thrush. If you think it may be caused by STD I would speak to your doctor about it.

     Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by the candida fungus, also known as yeast. Candida infection is not limited to the mouth; it can occur in other parts of the body as well, causing diaper rash in infants or vaginal yeast infections in women.

     Thrush can affect anyone, though it occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

     Thrush usually develops suddenly, but it may become chronic, persisting over a long period of time. A common sign of thrush is the presence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in your mouth usually on your tongue or inner cheeks but also sometimes on the roof of your mouth, gums, tonsils, or back of your throat. The lesions, which may have a "cottage cheese" appearance, can be painful and may bleed slightly when you scrape them or brush your teeth. In severe cases, the lesions may spread into your esophagus, or swallowing tube, causing:

     Pain or difficulty swallowing
     A feeling that food gets stuck in the throat or mid-chest area
     Fever, if the infection spreads beyond the esophagus
     Thrush can spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, and skin. This happens more often in people with cancer, HIV, or other conditions that weaken the immune system.

     What Causes Thrush?

     Small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people and are normally kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing infection.

     Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills. Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely to develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by the hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding.

3. QUESTION:
   Can infants get yeast infections or urinary tract infection?
   My daughter is on antibiotics for an ear infection. She is two. Today, she has been grabbing her diaper and saying "hurts". It seems like every time she pees she screams in pain. What should I do?

   • ANSWER:
     Yes they can. You need to take her in and get her checked out.

4. QUESTION:
   Is yeast dangerous for newborn babies to have?
   Our pediatrician says that yeast is no big deal for a newborn to have and has no effect on baby's health. Yet they have given us treatment to get rid of the yeast inside baby's mouth. What is yeast, what does it do and if it does nothing to baby why did the pediatrician prescribe something for baby and mom to get rid of it?

   • ANSWER:
     When my son was a newborn, he got thrush (yeast in the mouth). My pediatrician said it was not dangerous for him but that it might cause me to get a painful yeast infection on my nipples as I was breast feeding him. Also, if the pediatrician gave you "genetian violet" to get rid of the yeast/thrush, be very careful and it stains terribly and will not wash out!

     This is an "official" answer from babycenter.com

     My baby has white patches on the insides of her cheeks. What could this be?
     It could be a common and harmless yeast infection known as thrush. Thrush looks like cottage cheese or milk curds on the sides, roof, and sometimes the tongue of a baby s mouth. It s most common in babies 2 months and younger, but it can appear in older babies, too. What causes thrush?
     Yeast is a normal part of everyone s digestive system, but when there s an imbalance, an infection sets in. Most infants first come in contact with yeast as they travel down the birth canal. Thrush can develop when hormonal changes right after birth trigger an overgrowth of yeast in your baby s mouth.

     After your baby is born, antibiotics taken by you (if you re breastfeeding) or your baby can trigger a case of thrush. That s because antibiotics kill off "good" bacteria that keep yeast in check.

     Some moms and babies pass the infection back and forth: Your baby can pass thrush on to you if you re breastfeeding, resulting in a painful yeast infection on your nipples that will need a doctor s treatment. And you can trigger a case of thrush in your baby if you re breastfeeding and you develop a yeast infection on your nipples from taking antibiotics. On the other hand, some moms remain uninfected even while breastfeeding babies who have thrush and some breastfed babies are not affected by their mother s yeast infection.

     Some people think thrush can also be caused by prolonged sucking on a bottle or pacifier. Others think poor hygiene of bottle nipples is to blame. But infants who breastfeed exclusively and don t use pacifiers can also get it, so it s hard to pinpoint any one cause. Some babies (and some moms) are simply more susceptible than others to yeast.

5. QUESTION:
   Is yeast dangerous for newborn babies to have?
   Our pediatrician says that yeast is no big deal for a newborn to have and has no effect on baby's health. Yet they have given us treatment to get rid of the yeast inside baby's mouth. What is yeast, what does it do and if it does nothing to baby why did the pediatrician prescribe something for baby and mom to get rid of it?

   • ANSWER:
     When my son was a newborn, he got thrush (yeast in the mouth). My pediatrician said it was not dangerous for him but that it might cause me to get a painful yeast infection on my nipples as I was breast feeding him. Also, if the pediatrician gave you "genetian violet" to get rid of the yeast/thrush, be very careful and it stains terribly and will not wash out!

     This is an "official" answer from babycenter.com

     My baby has white patches on the insides of her cheeks. What could this be?
     It could be a common and harmless yeast infection known as thrush. Thrush looks like cottage cheese or milk curds on the sides, roof, and sometimes the tongue of a baby s mouth. It s most common in babies 2 months and younger, but it can appear in older babies, too. What causes thrush?
     Yeast is a normal part of everyone s digestive system, but when there s an imbalance, an infection sets in. Most infants first come in contact with yeast as they travel down the birth canal. Thrush can develop when hormonal changes right after birth trigger an overgrowth of yeast in your baby s mouth.

     After your baby is born, antibiotics taken by you (if you re breastfeeding) or your baby can trigger a case of thrush. That s because antibiotics kill off "good" bacteria that keep yeast in check.

     Some moms and babies pass the infection back and forth: Your baby can pass thrush on to you if you re breastfeeding, resulting in a painful yeast infection on your nipples that will need a doctor s treatment. And you can trigger a case of thrush in your baby if you re breastfeeding and you develop a yeast infection on your nipples from taking antibiotics. On the other hand, some moms remain uninfected even while breastfeeding babies who have thrush and some breastfed babies are not affected by their mother s yeast infection.

     Some people think thrush can also be caused by prolonged sucking on a bottle or pacifier. Others think poor hygiene of bottle nipples is to blame. But infants who breastfeed exclusively and don t use pacifiers can also get it, so it s hard to pinpoint any one cause. Some babies (and some moms) are simply more susceptible than others to yeast.

6. QUESTION:
   How long after completing antibiotics treatment can I go back to nursing?
   Unfortunately I got sick and had to take strong antibiotics for a week to get rid of the infection. Since the dosage was quite high, I stopped breastfeeding in fear that it might affect my baby, so I have been expressing and throwing away my breastmilk. Now that I am about to complete my treatment, I was wondering how long should I wait before I can go back to nursing?

   Thank you,
   Eana

   • ANSWER:
     Antibiotics that are used to treat a bladder infection are safe to take while breast-feeding. While it's true that many of the medications ingested by nursing mothers are passed to their babies through their breast milk, most antibiotics have been checked and have the seal of approval from the American Academy of Pediatrics.A nursing woman may be at an increased risk for bladder infections because while lactating, she often is producing less estrogen, the vaginal mucosa is thinner, the vagina's pH changes, and there's an overgrowth of less-than-normal bacteria. To add to this, thanks to the thinned-out mucosa, the bacteria can more easily enter the urethra (the opening to the bladder) and migrate up to the bladder during intercourse. If these bacteria then adhere to the bladder wall and multiply, a full-blown infection occurs and voila! you have a honeymoon-style infection, though I'm assuming you're not on your honeymoon. The types of antibiotics used to treat this infection, which include sulfa-based antibiotics, Cipro and its derivatives and nitrofurnation, have all been found to be safe to use while breast-feeding.

     The only potential side effect in infants whose mothers are breast-feeding and taking antibiotics such as penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, and aminoglycosides are changes in their intestinal flora (bacteria that are normally present in the intestines). This may lead to loose stool and diarrhea in the infant, but these side effects are temporary.

     You should also note that one of the antibiotics used to treat certain vaginal infections, called metronidazole (brand name Flagyl), has been associated with an increased risk of cancer in rodents. However, no studies have found this cancer association in humans, including studies of infants who were exposed to this drug while breast-feeding. The worst-case scenario would be loose stools or yeast overgrowth in infants whose mothers are breast-feeding and taking Flagyl. The American Academy of Pediatrics, while rating Flagyl as safe, suggests that nursing women discard their milk for 24 hours after taking a dose of the drug, since a large percent of Flagyl ends up in the breast milk.

     There is one rarely prescribed antibiotic that should not be given to breast-feeding women it's called chloramphenicol. This drug is used to treat various serious infections by bacteria that don't like oxygen (called anaerobes). If passed to the infant in breast milk it can cause bone marrow suppression in the baby and induce gray baby syndrome. This is a serious disorder in which hepatic liver enzyme function is damaged and as a result the baby can develop low blood pressure, turn blue, and even die. So this antibiotic is absolutely out.

     Finally, we've all heard that babies should not be given the antibiotic tetracycline. Indeed, chronic use of this drug (some women use it or its derivatives for acne) can stain the immature teeth of infants. However, short-term use of this antibiotic while breast-feeding, has been guardedly approved.

     Here's a list of various drugs considered safe to use while breast-feeding:

     * Acyclovir (including Zovirax and Valtrex). This drug is used to treat a herpes outbreak or to reduce the secretion of the herpes virus
     * Cephalosporins, including cefazolin, cefotaxime, and cefoxitin
     * Ciprofloxacin
     * Clindamycin
     * Erythromycin
     * Fluconazole (an anti-yeast drug)
     * Gentamicin
     * Kanamycin
     * Nitrofurantoin
     * Ofloxacin
     * Quinidine
     * Quinine
     * Streptomycin
     * Sulbactam
     * Sulfadiazine
     * Sulfisoxazole
     * Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole
     If you need to take an antibiotic while breast-feeding, know that in most cases it is safe. At the most, the baby can develop short-term loose stools and diarrhea. But if you have any further questions, of course, check with your doctor.

7. QUESTION:
   Anybody know how to get rid of thrush in an infant for good?
   I've been using gentian violet but my baby's thrush keeps coming back. He's has eaten less than 16 oz in the last 36 hrs. I called the doctor and he said to just keep using the gentian violet but it's not working.

   • ANSWER:
     Before giving this to your child was a Doctor or Pediatrician consulted?

     Liquid Nystatin is what Doctors prescribe for babies What your using is commonly used for

     Commonly used for

     Tinea; e.g. Athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm
     Candida albicans and related infections; e.g. thrush, yeast infections
     Mouth ulcers[1]
     Impetigo, before the advent of antibiotics but still useful to anybody who may be allergic to penicillin, as it cleans the open sores and prevents spread of the contagion
     In forensics, gentian violet was used to develop fingerprints.

     In body piercing, gentian violet is commonly used to mark the location for placing a tongue piercing.

     Engineering students in Belgium and Canada traditionally use this substance to dye their whole bodies purple in preparation for homecoming celebrations and frosh week. Additionally, aside from also dying their bodies purple during frosh week, Queen's University's golden leather engineering jacket, also known as Golden Party Armour or GPA, is purpled using this dye.

     Usage Warning: However, in large quantities, gentian violet may lead to ulceration of a baby's mouth and throat and is linked with mouth cancer.

     To feed your baby while they have Thrush sterilize the nipples after ever feeding or be prepared to use a brand new unused sterilized
     nipple.- wikipedia.com

     My oldest daughter had thrush her 4th month to the point she was screaming constantly wether she was feeding or not. We actually had to feed her watered down formula and cereal. Which for us worked, just talk to your family practitioner first.

8. QUESTION:
   how do infants get mouth thrush and yeast infections?
   i have a four month old grandaughter.she has had thrush of the mouth and now a vaginal yeast infection.she is not on antibiotics.is this from being dirty and not changed?

   • ANSWER:
     uhh, I've never heard of a vaginal yeast....but thrush is an oral yeast...I have 2 boys, they haven't had it, but my niece did....Many get it from breastfeeding, children can get it from nipples ( I recommend boiling them), a biggie is from other children (daycare, other school age children, etc.)....It's a common occurance w/ young children.

     To be honest, unless she was touching her mouth and then her vaginal area, I honestly don't know about that...

9. QUESTION:
   can i put honey on my infant yeast infection?
   My baby is two months old now and had a yeast infection on her bum almost since she was born. I heard of adults using honey for yeast and was wondering if its safe to put it on my babys bum. Let me know thanks

   • ANSWER:
     Why aren't you using a antibiotic cream for it? Has your doctor diagnosed it as a yeast infection?

     I would be using a pahrmacutical because I know how miserable I am when I get a yeast infection and I can't imagine putting my infant through that while I "experiement" with home remedies.

     I think it's cruel.

     And I too, have heard of plain yogurt, not honey.

10. QUESTION:
    What is a cure for a reacurring diaper rash in an infant?
    My daughter in law is convinced that just putting a onesi on instead of a sleeper on, it will help cure a diaper rash because air can get it it better. I don not agree since it is winter and been like 15 degrees outside.The baby is 2 months and i am afraid she will end up in the hospital.

    • ANSWER:
      One of my daughters had ear infections every other month her first year. The almost constant antibiotics caused horrible diaper rash.Some times it bled.
      I changed her often, let her be without anything on her bottom, the air really helps and had her in warm baths.
      Several times this rash turned to yeast.If you see little dots, it is yeast.At that point, she needed doctor prescribed cream.
      Never, ever use a product for adults.Work with your doctor.

11. QUESTION:
    What is the quickest way to get rid of vaginal itch at home?
    I just went to the store so I don't want to go back, it's not a terrible itch, just annoying, not only at night, I DO clean regularly, it's not that time of month, no discharge, no odor, I think it's infected.
    Is there anything I can take at home?
    If there isn't I guess I could ask my mom to take me back to the store.

    thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      To prevent and treat vaginal itching:

      Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
      Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
      Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
      Cleanse the area by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
      Eat yogurt with live cultures or take lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
      Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
      Keep your blood sugar under good control if you have diabetes.
      Lose weight if you are overweight.
      Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.

      It is also helpful to:

      Avoid overexertion, heat, and excessive sweating.
      Avoid scratching, which will only aggravate the problem.
      Delay sexual activity until your symptoms get better, or use a lubricant during intercourse.
      Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading sexually transmitted diseases.
      If you know that you have a yeast infection because your symptoms are exactly the same as those you've had in the past, try over-the-counter creams or vaginal suppositories.

      Call your doctor right away if:

      You have increased thirst or appetite, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, or fatigue -- these may be signs of diabetes.
      You have pelvic or lower abdominal pain or fever.

      Call your doctor if:

      You have blisters or ulcers on your vagina or vulva.
      You have burning with urination or other urinary symptoms -- you may have a urinary tract infection.
      You have unusual vaginal bleeding, swelling, or discharge.
      Your partner also has symptoms or you think you may have a sexually transmitted disease.
      Your symptoms worsen, last longer than 1 week, or recur despite self-care.

12. QUESTION:
    Is it bad for a guy to take an acidophilus vitamin?
    I gave my brother an acidophilus vitamin cause it tastes like strawberries lol! Then I found out was acidophilus is! I know he'll be fine, but just out of curiosity, what would happen if he kept taking them, and do men already have acidophilus since it also grows in the small intestines and not just the vagina?

    • ANSWER:
      doesn't seems to be a problem unless your brother is an infant. This is what I found:
      Overview:
      Acidophilus, or Lactobacillus acidophilus, is one of the most important bacteria found in your body, and generally reside in your digestive tract. As a probiotic, it may be used to prevent and treat anti-biotic diarrhea, yeast infections and urinary tract infections. Other ways it can help the body are by protecting against colon cancer and the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Furthermore, they can be taken as a preventive against food poisoning when traveling. Acidophilus can also be found in yogurt, kefir and other products.

      How This Food Supplement Works in Your Body:
      Improve efficiency of your digestive system
      Manufacture vitamins, such as, biotin and vitamin K
      Produce antibacterial substances which kill or deactivate harmful bacteria
      Help maintain normal bacteria balance in lower intestines
      Kill monilia, yeast and fungus on contact
      May lower cholesterol
      May clear up skin problems
      May help prevent vaginal yeast infections in women who take antibiotics or who have diabetes
      May extend Life span
      Potential aid for digestion of milk and milk products in people with lactase deficiency
      May enhance immunity
      May reduce symptoms from spastic colon
      May reduce diarrhea related to Long-term antibiotic use

      Where this food supplement is found:

      Yogurt
      Kefir
      Other milk products

      How to use:
      It is preferable to be administered in liquid form due to bioavailability and fast absorption in body.
      Available in capsules or tablets, as a powder or in milk products, such as yogurt or Kefir.

      Cautions:
      Don't take if you:
      Are experiencing intestinal problems, unless at the discretion of medical supervision
      Intend on applying to vaginal area for a yeast infection

      Consult your doctor if you:
      Use any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or nonprescription drugs.

13. QUESTION:
    What are these strange white spots on my throat?
    Every so often, I feel like I have something stuck inside my mouth on my throat. I open wide in the mirror and notice that there are a few white spots there. My throat does not hurt at all and it isn't red. Sorry this may sound gross, but here goes: Sometimes when I cough or sneeze, the white spot comes out and it looks like a small little ball of cottage cheese and it really stinks. What are these, What causes these, and how can I avoid it from happening again? Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      It is called "thrush"

      The mouth normally contains many microorganisms. One of these normal microorganisms is the fungus Candida albicans, which is the same fungus associated with vaginal yeast infections or other Candida infections. The growth of Candida is normally kept under control by the presence of normal bacteria.

      Uncontrolled overgrowth of Candida in the mouth may be caused by factors that reduce the natural resistance, such as illness, stress, long-term use of corticosteroids or medications that suppress the immune system, and immune disorders such as (AIDS).

      It may also be caused by conditions that upset the balance of normal microorganisms in the mouth. This is most commonly associated with use of antibiotics, but it may also occur with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and with the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy or the use of birth control pills.

      Oral thrush is most common in infants and toddlers, in the elderly, and in people who are debilitated or whose immune system has been suppressed by disease or medical treatments.

      Thrush in infants is common and is usually not associated with other diseases. Infant thrush that resists treatment or recurs frequently should raise suspicions for an underlying disorder.

      In adolescents, young adults, and middle age adults, an oral Candida infection should always be viewed as a possible symptom of an underlying medical problem, such as diabetes or HIV infection, and should be evaluated.

      http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000966.htm

      Get to a doctor like NOW.

14. QUESTION:
    Oral Thrush, how can I get rid of it and did i catch it from a woman?
    It is a yeast infection I know, but is it the same as women suffer from as I have been with several? I really hate it.

    • ANSWER:
      Colin, as you likely know, "Oral Thrush", also called Candidiasis or Monilia infection, is caused by the yeast Candida albicans. The same yeast causes thrush in infants (a mouth and throat infection) and vaginal infection in women and oral infections in adults. It is present on just about everyone's skin, doing no harm most of the time. It could be obtained by oral sex or just plain kissing. People who are taking certain antibiotics, diabetics or individuals with compromised immune systems, such as people with HIV, are also at high risk for getting oral thrush. Although it's possible for oral thrush to be treated at home, it can sometimes be too severe for home treatment and must be treated by a doctor. Symptoms of oral thrush include a white tongue and white patches in the tongue that resemble cottage cheese.

      Things you'll need: toothbrush and dental floss; unsweetened yogurt; acidophilus caplets, and oral antifungal medication. Brush your teeth. If you are not already practicing good oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every day are necessary and may cure your thrush. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, two times a day. Eat unsweetened yogurt. Plain yogurt contains active cultures that restore a healthy pH balance and normal bacterial growth in the mouth. Although plain yogurt does not cure oral thrush in adults, it may provide your body with enough good bacteria to kill the infection and is a good start in thrush treatments. Taking 2 billion CFU of acidophilus per day is a good thrush treatment. Acidophilus is a powder that usually comes in caplet form, available at your local health food store or vitamin shop. Acidophilus contains active cultures similar to the cultures in yogurt, so it works in the same way to provide your body with normal bacteria to stave off oral thrush in adults. Take an antifungal medication prescribed by your doctor. If you are not experiencing results, go to your doctor, who will prescribe for you an antifungal medication, such as Sporanox. Sporanox is a caplet, but your prescription medication may also be in the form of a chewable tablet or a mouthwash that you rinse with and then spit out. Take your prescription until it is completely gone. Do not stop taking the medication your doctor has prescribed, even if you are completely free of symptoms. Continue taking your dose until you finish the medication.

      Read more: How to Treat Oral Thrush in Adults | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_5112487_treat-oral-thrush-adults.html#ixzz1LnN6ci6J

15. QUESTION:
    Impetigo or intertrigo are they the same skin disease?
    Is impetigo and intertrigo the same skin disease? If someone has this how long does it take for it to go away? What do you put on it?

    • ANSWER:
      Hello,

      'IMPETIGO,' (pronounced im - pet- EYE'' - go), is a specific infection of the skin with a particular germ called "Staph. aureus." It affects children especially, and I have heard the name mis-pronounced as "the infant tiger" . The infected skin produces a gold-coloured discharge which soon dries into a golden crust, on a red background, seen here to the right of a child's lip, http://www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/pics/impetigo_face.jpg , and here on the left side of a man's face, http://www.clinical-virology.org/gallery/images/non_viral/impetigo-1.jpg

      The gold colour of the rash is what gives Staph. aureus its name, (aureus = gold).

      This rash is prone to spread to unaffected skin once you have it, (see that chap's face), and it is also quite infectious by contact to others. Getting it better needs an antibiotic cream to kill off the germ, and sometimes an antibiotic by mouth as well. It then heals without leaving a scar.

      Impetigo affects exposed, 'flat' skin rather than skin-folds.

      "INTERTRIGO," (pronounced in- ter- TRYE''- go), although a similar-sounding name, is quite different and not such a "specific" germ problem. Intertrigo is a rash within a skin-fold, on opposite sides of the skin-fold. Such large skin folds include between the two buttocks, under the breasts in ladies, and in the armpits; also if you are very over-weight and have an 'apron' of tummy-fat, there is a big skin-fold 'under' the apron of fat.

      The reason that the insides of skin-folds are prone to problems, is because

      - - (1) the skin inside sweats away normally, but when the skin folds are touching together there is no way that air can get in to evaporate the sweat. So the skin gets soggy with un-evaporated sweat.

      - - (2) Also, the two sides of the fold make things worse by rubbing together, against each other, and scraping the skin surfaces. Then secondary germs can jump in too and cause an infection.

      Here is an intertrigo in between the buttocks... http://www.aafp.org/afp/20050901/833_f1.jpg caused by a secondary yeast infection; - - here is a rash between the fingers caused by secondary infection with a Pseudomonas germ; http://www.emro.who.int/Publications/EMHJ/0701/etiolo4.jpg ; and here is a rash under the breasts caused by a secondary yeast infection. http://www.skinatlas.com/candintertrigo.jpg

      What is fundamental to an intertrigo, is (a) the sogginess and scraping within a skin-fold caused by un-evaporated sweat, and (b) the follow-on skin infection. The germ which follows on is *not* specific, like it is in Impetigo. It can be a yeast,... a fungus,... or a bacterium.

      The treatment of an Intertrigo is first of all, against the yeast, fungus, or bacterium, - - but after that, there is still the problem of the sweating, and patients may need to put a cotton-wool or gauze into the fold to prevent recurrence.
      Excessive sweating in the armpits, can also be treated with a special aluminium paint.

      I hope this is of some help.

      Best wishes,

      Belliger (retired uk gp)

16. QUESTION:
    My two year old daughter has recurrent yeast infections?
    For the last six months she's been getting what seems like a yeast infection on her armpit. It will come for a few days then go away and a couple weeks later it will come back. Only on her right side. I've tried antibacterial and fungal creams. A couple months ago she got a fever that wouldn't go away with Tylenol so I took her to the er at a Childrens hospital. I thought she might have had staph from a bug bite she got on her leg since she'd had staph from a bite before. The doctor said it wasn't staph and that she might just have a fever from a uti. He didn't do any other tests, but did prescribe a liquid form of antibiotics and said if there is something in her system that the antibiotics would clear it up. I asked him about her red patch under her arm pit, but it wasn't there at this time. He said to give her lots of yogurt. She hasn't had anything for a couple months till today. After her bath this morning I noticed it came back so I made an appointment for her to see a pediatrician on Monday. I don't know where she could be picking it up and why it won't stay away with topical creams and salves. Any experiences with this? It worries me. She's only had one yeast infection on her bottom after a course of antibiotics over a year ago when she had staph. I've never seen yeast on an arm pit tho.

    • ANSWER:
      Yeast infections are very common in the folds of skin on a body. They can happen when someone has excess skin on their belly, under their arms, under breasts, etc.

      I'm concerned about how often she seems to ge having staph infections, but it's a good sign that the doctor said it wasn't this time. It's also possible she has eczema under her arms.

      You should have a medicated cream (I think it's called Westcort Cream) or a medicated powder to use in those areas. Gold Bond powder works on adults; I would check with your doctor before using it with your baby.

      Yogurt doesn't help. If you haven't taken her to a dermatologist, ask her doctor for a referral. Be careful that, when you give her a bath, that you are thoroughly drying her off before you dress her. If any area is moist, it will invite yeast. Also, let her run around without a shirt once in a while to air the area out.

      Yeast infections in infants are horrible; but it sounds like you need a prescription strength remedy.

17. QUESTION:
    What is the difference between a bladder infection and a yeast infection.?

    • ANSWER:
      A bladder infection is caused by a bacteria infection and can be treated with antibiotics, depending on what type of infection you have. This is also called a urinary tract infection. A yeast infection is caused by a different type of microorganism. A yeast infection is caused by a fungus and is treated with different types of anti fungal antibiotics. Women can get yeast infections of the vagina, causing discharge and itching to this area. Infants can get a yeast infection in their diaper area and the skin appears red and sometimes there's red bumps. Yeast infections can affect the mouth, the skin, the vagina, and even cause infections in the blood.

      Both UTI and yeast infections are very common and most women have had one or both infections sometime in their life. You can learn more about these infections on Web Md.

18. QUESTION:
    How do doctors diagnose a yeast infection.?
    Do you have to get a pap smear or urinate in a cup like you would for a uti?

    • ANSWER:
      Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida, affects nearly 75% of all adult women at least once their lives.

      Candida is a relatively harmless yeast, normally found in the mouth, throat, intestines and genitourinary tract of most humans. In the yeast state, Candida is simply a non-invasive, sugar-fermenting organism, whose purpose is to destroy harmful gut flora (bacteria). In a normal environment, Candida is controlled by a properly functioning immune system and helpful "friendly" gut flora like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacillus laterosporus, all of which suppress undesirable bacteria and yeasts and help maintain a balanced, healthy immune system.

      When the balance between the normal microorganisms of the vagina are disrupted, however, Vulvovaginal Candidiasis can result.

      Commonly referred to simply as a vaginal yeast infection, vulvovaginal Candidiasis disorder occurs when the acidity of the vagina changes. This may be due to hormone imbalance, in conjunction with other illnesses (such as Diabetes), in those who are immunosuppressed (such with AIDS or HIV), in those who use oral contraceptives, and commonly, with antibiotic use (particularly tetracycline)[.1, 2] Pregnancy, prolonged use of steroid hormones, acid blockers and ulcer medications, immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory drugs, excessive stress, and improper diet can also contribute to Vulvovaginal Candidiasis.[3]

      Vulvovaginal Candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted disease, nor is it an airborne infection. It can, however, be transmitted from one partner to another through intercourse, deep kissing or oral sex.[4] Fortunately, if the other person is healthy, his or her immune system will destroy the cells and prevent infection. Still, an estimated 12%-15% of men develop symptoms such as itching and rash following sexual contact with an infected partner.[5] It is also possible for breastfeeding mothers to transmit the infection to their infants.

      The National Institutes of Health[6] lists the following as the most common symptoms of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis:

      Abnormal vaginal discharge (ranging from a slightly watery, white discharge to a thick, white, chunky discharge)
      Vaginal and labial itching or burning
      Redness and/or inflammation of the vulva
      Pain with intercourse
      Painful urination

      Diagnosis is made through visual examination, symptom review and in some cases, laboratory tests. Once identified, Candida can be successfully treated through several measures. Remedies include the determination and elimination of any causative factors, application of antifungal medications, lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking and reducing or avoiding alcohol consumption), removing (or reducing) pollution and toxins in your environment, and strengthening your immune system through the combined application of a healthy lifestyle plus proper nutrition and probiotic supplements.

      Before undergoing any treatment conventional or otherwise be sure you are dealing with a true vaginal yeast infection. Self-treating a suspected vaginal yeast condition may delay diagnosis and effective treatment of a similar vaginal infection that will not respond to yeast treatments. In fact, one study by the American Social Health Association found that 70% of women self-treated vaginal infections before calling a health care provider. Most often, they incorrectly thought they had a yeast infection when, in fact, it was bacterial vaginosis.[7]
      Common treatments include antifungal medicines in the form of tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories, including [8]:

      Femstat: an antifungal type of antibiotic applied as a vaginal cream. Femstat is available as a 1-day or 3-day treatment. See http://www.drugdigest.org/dd/dvh/uses/0,... for details.

      Clotrimazole: Clotrimazole comes as a lozenge, topical cream or solution formula, as well as in over-the-counter vaginal creams and tablet forms. See http://www.aegis.com/factshts/network/ac... for more information.

      Monistat: these prefilled applicators come in 1, 3 or 7 day treatments. See http://www.monistat.com/index.jsp... for details.

      Nystatin (Mycostatin): comes in tablet or cream form. See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi... for details.

      GyneCure: comes as vaginal ointment and ovule. See http://www.rxmed.com/b.main/b2.pharmaceu... for more information.

      Diflucan: an oral suspension not recommended for use in pregnancy. See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi... for details.

      Cranberry Juice: always helpful for bladder infections, cranberry lowers the ph of urine. Supporters say that the juice may also help prevent the occurrence of yeast infections and aid in their treatment.[9]

      Lactobacillus acidophilus: yogurt! You can ingest it, or as some braver folks do, insert it vaginally [see http://www.msu.edu/user/eisthe... You can also take acidophilus pills from your local health store.

      Not so common remedies[10, 11] include:

      Garlic: yes, garlic. Supporters of this tried and true method say that a fresh, peeled clove of garlic can cure a yeast infection in a matter of days. Wrap the peeled garlic clove in gauze, tie the ends with unwaxed, unflavored dental floss but leave a bit of floss hanging for removal and insert it vaginally. Leave it in for several hours or even overnight. Repeat as necessary until the infection has resolved. Others say you can also use the garlic capsules sold as dietary supplements in health food stores.
      Tea tree oil: commonly used in Italy, tea tree oil has been shown to be effective against yeast. Widely available, this essential oil treatment may be just what helps you. Check with your local alternative health practitioner for proper methods of use.

      Boric acid vaginal suppositories (600 mg/day for 10 days) are effective, even in cases of resistant infections.
      Whichever treatment you try, vaginal yeast infections should be cleared up within two weeks or less of treatment; often even within a few days. If you suffer from recurrent or resistant infections, see your doctor.

19. QUESTION:
    Can Men get Bacterial vaginosis and Why does it keep coming back?
    My boyfriend and i have been together for about a year. We both claim to be faithful to one another. But i keep getting BV. When I ask my doctor he said I take to many baths and that BV is only found in women. Also I become dry when we have sex and it causes my boyfriend to get this scab on his penis. We both had a STD screening and we both got (-) results. Can someone tell me what's going on.

    • ANSWER:
      BV is basically caused by an organism called Gardnerella vaginitis. It is NOT considered an STD. Your boyfriend isn;t likely to be able to provide the right environment on/in his body for him to get it. Here is a clipping off the net: (BV) is characterized by the overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina, including Gardnerella vaginalis, Gardneralla mobiluncus, and Mycoplasma hominis. Bacterial vaginosis is grossly underdiagnosed because many women assume they have a yeast infection and treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications.

      Incidence and Prevalence
      Bacterial vaginosis accounts for 60% of vulvovaginal infections. Young adult women, particularly those who are sexually active, are most commonly affected.

      Causes and Risk Factors

      BV is caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Lactobacillus, helpful bacteria, metabolizes glycogen to lactic acid in the vagina and maintains normal vaginal pH, which provides a natural defense against unhealthy bacteria proliferation.

      When the defense is weakened, other bacteria present in the vagina (e.g., Bacteroides sp, Peptostreptococcus sp, Gardnerella vaginalis, G. mobiluncus, Mycoplasma hominis) proliferate and cause symptoms. About 50% of women have G. vaginalis in their vaginal flora but do not develop infection.

      Broad-spectrum antibiotics may destroy healthy bacteria, disrupt the vagina's normal flora, and promote infection. Douching, overused or retained tampons, intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs), diaphragms, contraceptive sponges, and products containing nonoxynol-9 may also disrupt the balance.

      Bacterial vaginosis also is associated with having multiple sex partners, a new monogamous sexual relationship, and a history of STDs.

      Signs and Symptoms

      A fishy vaginal odor, itching, and irritation are common signs of BV and may be particularly noticeable after intercourse or menses. It may be accompanied by a smooth, sticky white or gray discharge 4 days to 4 weeks following exposure. Elevated vaginal pH level is also a symptom.

      Complications
      BV is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), female infertility, tubal (ectopic) pregnancy, premature birth, and low birth weight in infants born to infected mothers.

      Diagnosis

      Diagnosis is usually made by visual observation and by smell. A pelvic examination is performed to determine whether the cervix is producing abnormal secretions and to check for other diseases.

      Vaginal fluid may be treated with a 10% solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH), which makes the characteristic odor more pronounced. A sample is usually taken for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of bacteria, and pH levels are checked. Most physicians recommend a full STD screening.

      Treatment

      Antibiotics such as metronidazole and clindamycin are generally prescribed, as oral (pill) or topical (cream) treatments. When used topically, these medications may cause side effects such as stinging, burning, and irritation. Douching should be avoided.

      Sex partners may require treatment if infection recurs.

20. QUESTION:
    Will antibiotics make my infants urine smell bad?
    He was recently prescribed amoxicillin and his urine smells like a #2 diaper, is this normal?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes, and possibly change color. Be prepared for his #2's to become runny too...very runny. Ask the doctor if he is old enough for yogurt and give that to him to try to help prevent a yeast infection. Good luck!

21. QUESTION:
    how do you get rid of a yeast infection?
    i have to do this for my health and fitness for a 2 pg report of i get a zero and im already failing

    • ANSWER:
      I get them all of the time. Every time I'm prescribed antibiotics, I get them. I'm usually prescribed an antibiotic that kills everything, rather than targeted towards certain kinds of bacteria. This alters the flora in the vagina, and many "good" bacteria which keep the yeast in check are killed off, and the natural balance of organisms is altered. Also, many other things, such as eating too much sugar, poor hygiene, not changing underwear, and tight fitting underwear can cause the sugar-loving, damp-loving yeasties to overgrow. Most of the time, the infection spreads to the vulva (the area outside of the vagina) and itches like crazy. Scratching spreads the infection and makes the itching worse.

      There are many over the counter medications that cure yeast infections. Most contain the ingredients Miconazole Nitrate or Trioconazole, which are antifungals, and can be in either the form of creams or suppositories. They work well most of the time, but it is important for a doctor to diagnose the infection as a yeast infection, since bacterial infections can seem like yeast infections, and using over the counter yeast infection medications make it worse.

      There are also pills, Diflucan or Nizoral, which are oral antifungal medications. They work very well, usually one dose will clear an infection up in days, and paired with vaginal creams or suppositories, are very effective.

      There are many prescription creams as well. These are very powerful and have always worked wonders for me!

      Many people choose to use yogurt as an effective and natural alternative. Yogurt contains bacteria. I have heard of people freezing it in tampon applicators to use as a suppository, which can also feel good on the infection. Eating yogurt or taking acidophilus pills can prevent new infections. There is plenty of information out there on the web, as well as doctor s offices and gynecologist offices.

      Don't forget, yeast infections are not only in the vagina. I have had an oral yeast infection, commonly called thrush. It usually affects infants, but I was on a particularly nasty antibiotic, which resulted in oral thrush. Very uncomfortable.

22. QUESTION:
    I have a rash around my nipples that is sore and itches. I called the doctor, but can I breast feed?
    The doctor's office does not open until 9:30 and the baby needs to eat. I am scared to breast feed, because I don't want to harm my baby. Is it safe to feed him. Has anyone had this happen.

    • ANSWER:
      if you have a rash around your nipples i wouldnt breastfeed. try supplementing with formula for the time being. just wait til you get the ok from your doctor thats its safe to breastfeed without passing something on to your baby. its better to be safe than sorry. if your baby is hungry, again.... supplement with formula until you get checked out.. then again it very well could be just thrush.

      Thrush is a common and harmless yeast infection in a baby's mouth that can affect your nipples during breastfeeding. Yeast is a normal part of everyone's digestive system, but when there's an overgrowth, an infection sets in.

      Many infants first come in contact with yeast as they travel down the birth canal (you can have a vaginal yeast infection during pregnancy and not be aware of it). After your baby is born, or during labor and delivery, antibiotics taken by you or your baby can trigger a case of thrush. That's because antibiotics, which get into your breast milk, kill off "good" bacteria that keep yeast in check.

      So, for example, a baby delivered by c-section can develop a yeast infection if his mother is given antibiotics right after surgery. Similarly, antibiotics given to moms during labor for group B strep can also set the stage for an infection.

      Your baby can pass thrush on to you, so it's important to seek treatment for yourself and your baby at the same time. Otherwise, you may pass the infection back and forth.

      Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint any one cause of thrush. Some women and babies are simply more susceptible than others to yeast. It thrives in warm, moist, sugary environments, and that's exactly what your baby's mouth and your nipples provide during nursing.

      Some common signs of a yeast infection in nursing mothers are:
      itchy, pink, red, shiny, or burning nipples (may be cracked) (Note that pink, tender nipples can also be a sign of a bacterial infection, or dermatitis, which should be diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist.)
      deep, shooting breast pain during or after feedings
      a vaginal yeast infection

      Most young babies have symptoms, but older babies might not. Those who do may:
      have white patches on the inside of the lips and cheeks that look like cottage cheese and aren't easily washed off. If you notice a white coating on your baby's tongue but nowhere else, it's probably just milk residue.
      cry when nursing or sucking on a pacifier or bottle. The white patches mentioned above may be painful and make feeding uncomfortable if the infection is severe.
      have raised, patchy bright or dark red diaper rash with distinct borders. Small, red spots frequently appear around the edges of the main rash. The affected area is red and may be tender or painful, and the rash can creep into the folds of skin around your child's genitals and legs. It almost never appears on the buttocks.

      If you suspect thrush, contact your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Thrush should only take a few days to cure if the treatment is effective and/or aggressive, and you and your baby need to be treated at the same time.

      Your provider may recommend that you apply an antifungal prescription medication cream called Nystatin to your nipples to treat the yeast on your breasts so that you and your baby won't pass the infection back and forth. Or she may recommend applying an over-the-counter antifungal cream like Lotrimin or Monistat to your nipples after every nursing for a week to ten days. If you're still in pain after this treatment, you may be prescribed a more potent antifungal medicine like oral Diflucan.

      To ease any deep breast pain, you may want to take 600 mgs of ibuprofen every six hours (maximum of 1,200 mgs over 24 hours) until the worst is over and your treatment starts working.

      To treat your baby's thrush, your pediatrician will likely prescribe Nystatin. You'll "paint" the medicine on the white patches with the enclosed applicator (or your finger) several times a day for ten days. Be sure to give the Nystatin after nursing so the medicine will stay in your baby's mouth longer. It may take a week to clear up the infection.

      If the infection doesn't seem to be clearing up, call your doctor. Some babies with thrush also develop a yeast diaper infection. If that happens, your doctor can prescribe a fungal cream medication to use in the diaper area.

      If you want to try alternative therapies, some lactation consultants and nursing-friendly physicians recommend applying gentian violet to your baby's mouth. Gentian violet is a dye that will stain anything it comes in contact with. It's much more effective than Nystatin because it penetrates mucous membranes and kills yeast on contact.

      If you'd like to try this method:
      Buy a 1 percent gentian violet solution. You can find the dye at many drugstores or order it from the pharmacy. A 1-ounce bottle should cost around .
      Use a cotton swab to coat the inside of your baby's mouth. Have someone help you by holding your baby's head and hands while you swab the insides of his lips, cheeks, and tongue.
      To avoid stains while applying the gentian violet, undress your baby from the waist up and protect the surface underneath him with a towel that you don't mind getting stains on.
      When you nurse your baby, some dye may get on your nipples, which is perfectly safe. (There's no need to coat your own nipples, though.)
      Do this once or twice a day for no more than three days.

      In the meantime, wash all toys, pacifiers, and breast pump parts and sterilize them in an electric steam sterilizer or in boiling water for 20 minutes after each use, to avoid reinfecting you or your baby. For the same reason, wash your hands frequently, especially after feedings.

      You may want to add lactobacillus acidophilus to your diet to recolonize your digestive tract with the friendly bacteria that keep yeast in check. Look for yogurt that says it contains live lactobacillus acidophilis cultures, or take it in pill form (40 million units per day). Exposing your breasts to sunshine and letting your nipples air-dry between feedings may also help.

      Some moms find the pain so excruciating that they can barely stand to nurse their baby. If that's the case, pumping may be more comfortable until your nipples are more healed.

      BEFORE DOING ANYTHING THOUGH, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR AND YOUR CHILD'S PEDIATRICIAN
      http://www.babycenter.com/0_thrush-in-breastfeeding-moms_8486.bc?articleId=8486&page=1

23. QUESTION:
    I have tried Sinus sugary, immunotherapy and all the other meds. What else?
    What else could be causing the sinus reaction. I then suspect yeast infection but my doctor dismissed it and said men don't manifest yeast at a metabolic stage. My only other thought, other than yeast, that it could be my dental work.

    • ANSWER:
      My husband uses this to keep from getting bronchitis when he gets a sinus infection, and I use it to cure sinus infections. THere are many kinds of bacteria that live in the sinuses, and this gets rid of all the bad ones!.This is the only thing that really helped me --- my Dr. told me about a sinus wash that will kill bacteria.
      you need

      distilled water
      sea salt
      liquid chlorophyll and colloidal silver from the health food store.
      in a glass mix 1/4 cup water with a pinch of salt and heat to body temperature.
      add 5 drops each silver and chlorophyll and mix.
      using a large dropper (like one used for infant medication) drop 2 full droppersfull into one side of the nose while laying down.
      Turn the head and let it drain out the other nostril. Be sure to have paper towels handy. or just use a neti pot, I like this better.
      The silver kills the bacteria and there are several hundred kind that can live in the sinus cavities and anti biotics don't get rid of them all.
      Do this twice a day for a week, mixing up the mixture fresh each time.
      Then do it once a week for maintenance.
      There is nothing in this that will hurt you, and it cured me.
      I do not have to take claritin, or antibiotics anymore.
      best wishes

24. QUESTION:
    what is a yeast infection,and its remedy?
    i dont know what is exactly a yeast infectio means . is any one there know to expalain what is it and its remedy ,please help me i asked a question here and the answer is you may have a yeast infection.

    • ANSWER:
      I have just posted an answer to your earlier question old chap. I doubt that your problem is due to a yeast infection?

      This is better called fungus anyway. This can occur peri-anally ( around the anus) on the outside but would be unusual within the anus except in certain special circumstances.

      Generally fungal infections affect the female vagina and sometimes the skin,unless there is a question of immune compromise. They also occur in the mouths of infants,but rarely in adults. Another trigger for their appearance elsewhere is the use of broad spectrum antibiotics.

25. QUESTION:
    I have tinnuitus, constant ringing in one ear. Does anyone have practical suggestions for coping with this?
    I experienced a sudden loss of hearing in my left ear and subsequent tinnutis. My doctor, or anyone else, has not been optimistic about the tinnutis subsiding. I am hoping to hear from anyone who has dealt with this and what coping methods have been effective. There is no cure, that is quite clear in doing any research. I look forward to hearing, with my right ear, any suggestions.

    • ANSWER:
      Hi Shene

      Here are some action ideas to get healed. Your hearing will be fine with some action steps and looking for answers.

      Causes of Hearing Disorders
      Among the most common causes of hearing disorders are allergies, antibiotic and other drug use, the buildup of earwax, infection and inflammation, and chronic exposure to loud noises.

      Quick Action Plan for Hearing Disorders

      1. Clean your ears regularly, using cotton swabs, but do so gently to avoid damaging ear tissue.

      2. Avoid exposure to loud noises. If you work in a noisy environment, wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears.

      3. Be screened for both food and environmental allergies. A highly effective method for detecting allergies is electrodermal screening (EDS).

      4. To eliminate allergies, consider enzyme-potentiated desensitization (EPD).

      5. Emphasize a diet rich in organic whole foods, especially plenty of fresh, organic vegetables, along with garlic and onions to boost immunity. Also eat high quality protein foods, such as organic free-range meats, poultry and wild-caught fish.

      6. Avoid all foods to which you are allergic or sensitive, and eliminate all commercially processed foods, as well as sugar, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and caffeine, and all food additives, colorings, and preservatives.

      7. Drink plenty of pure, filtered water throughout the day. Gallon a day!

      8. For hearing problems related to structural imbalances in the skull, craniosacral therapy can be highly effective, particularly for otitis media.

      9. Useful nutrients for hearing problems include vitamin A, beta carotene, B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, MSM, and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Acidophilus supplements are also recommended to prevent infection and systemic yeast overgrowth (candiasis).

      10. Useful herbs include Echinacea, ginkgo biloba, goldenseal, hypericum, and St. John s wort. Drops of tea tree oil and diluted grapeseed extracts inserted in the ear via an eye dropper can also be helpful.

      11. Useful homeopathic remedies include Aconite, Apis mellifica, Belladonna, Chamomilla, Ferrum, phos., Lycopodium, Merc. Sol., Pulsatilla, and Silicea.

      12. Useful homeopathic remedies include Aconite, Apis mellifica, Belladonna, Chamomilla, Ferrum, phos., Lycopodium, Merc. Sol., Pulsatilla, and Silicea.

      13. To help protect infants from developing hearing problems related to infections and allergies, breastfeeding for at least their first six months of life is recommended.

      14. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, most hearing disorders are related to imbalances in the kidney meridian system. Rebalancing kidney energies using acupuncture and Chinese herbs can often resolve hearing problems.

      15. Auditory integration training, such as the Tomatis Method, can be highly effective for resolving hearing problems related to hypersensitivity to high frequency sounds.

      Best of health to you

26. QUESTION:
    What can you use for only vagina itching?
    Has no odor , no discharge .
    on outside of vagina area.

    • ANSWER:
      Vaginal itching
      Overview
      Treatment
      Alternative Names:
      Pruritus vulvae; Itching - vaginal area; Vulvar itching
      Home Care:
      To prevent and treat vaginal itching:

      Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
      Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
      Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.
      Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
      Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
      Eat yogurt with live cultures or take lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
      Cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
      Lose weight if you are over weight.
      Keep your blood sugars under good control if you have diabetes.
      It is also helpful to:

      Avoid scratching, which will only aggravate the problem.
      Avoid overexertion, heat, and excessive sweating.
      Delay sexual activity until your symptoms get better or at least use a lubricant during intercourse.
      Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading sexually transmitted diseases.
      If you know that you have a yeast infection because your symptoms are exactly the same as those in the past, try over-the-counter creams or vaginal suppositories.

      Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted. However, sometimes men also develop itching and redness following sexual contact. If this is the case or you get recurrent infections for unclear reasons, both you and your partner may require treatment. Talk to your doctor.

      For itching related to menopause, your doctor may consider estrogen cream or tablets to insert vaginally.

      Teach children to resist and report any attempted sexual contact by another person. Don't try to remove any foreign object from a child's vagina. Take the child to a doctor right away for removal.

      Call your health care provider if:
      Call your doctor right away if:

      You have pelvic or lower abdominal pain or fever.
      You have increased thirst or appetite, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, or fatigue -- these may be signs of diabetes.
      Call your doctor if:

      Your symptoms worsen, last longer than 1 week, or recur despite self-care.
      You have unusual vaginal bleeding , swelling, or discharge .
      Your partner also has symptoms or you think you may have a sexually transmitted disease.
      You have burning with urination or other urinary symptoms -- you may have a urinary tract infection.
      You have blisters or ulcers on your vagina or vulva.
      What to expect at your health care provider's office:
      Your doctor will exam you, including a pelvic exam, and ask questions to help diagnose the cause of your vaginal itching. These questions may include:

      When did the itching begin?
      Have you had it before?
      Is the itching severe?
      Does it limit your activities?
      Where exactly is the itching? On the inside of the vagina or on the outside (vulva) as well?
      How often do you bathe or shower?
      Do you use scented soap, scented or colored toilet paper, or bubble bath?
      Do you frequently swim or participate in water sports? Do you change your clothes soon after such activities?
      Do you wear cotton panties or synthetic ones?
      Do you wear tight pants or tight pantyhose?
      Do you use douches or feminine hygiene spray?
      Are you sexually active? Do you use contraception? What type?
      Does anything make you feel better?
      Does anything make you feel worse?
      Have you tried any over-the-counter creams? Which ones?
      Do you have any other symptoms like vaginal bleeding, swelling, rash, or pain on urination ?
      Do you have a personal or family history of diabetes?
      What medications do you take?
      What is your menstrual history? Including questions like: How old were you when your periods began? How often do your periods usually come? How long do they generally last?
      Do you have any allergies?

      Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

      Culture and microscopic exam of vaginal discharge
      Pap smear
      Urine and blood studies (including hormone levels)
      Skin biopsies of the vulvar area
      Antifungal drugs may be prescribed for yeast infections. When indicated, steroid creams or lotions may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Ointments containing hormones may be ordered, and benzodiazepines or antihistamines may be prescribed for nighttime relief.

      Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial vaginal infections, including sexually transmitted diseases.

      References:
      Clark LR, Atendido M. Group B streptococcal vaginitis in postpubertal adolescent girls. J Adolesc Health . 2005; 36(5): 437-440.

      Edwards L. The diagnosis and treatment of infectious vaginitis. Dermatol Ther . 2004; 17(1): 102-110.

      Reid G, Bruce AW. Urogenital infections in women: can probiotics help? Postgrad Med J . 2003; 79(934): 428-432.z

27. QUESTION:
    What causes Thrush and how do you get rid of it?
    no...it's not something I get, because I'm a man and no..it isn't a referrence to wild life (Thrush, Seagulls, Golden Eagles etc)... it's a serious question.

    • ANSWER:
      Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by the candida fungus, also known as yeast. Candida infection is not limited to the mouth; it can occur in other parts of the body as well, causing diaper rash in infants or vaginal yeast infections in women.

      Thrush can affect anyone, though it occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

      What causes thrush?

      Small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people and are normally kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing infection.

      Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills. Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely to develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by the hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding.

      What are the symptoms of thrush?

      Thrush usually develops suddenly, but it may become chronic, persisting over a long period of time. A common sign of thrush is the presence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in your mouth usually on your tongue or inner cheeks but also sometimes on the roof of your mouth, gums, tonsils, or back of your throat. The lesions, which may have a "cottage cheese" appearance, can be painful and may bleed slightly when you scrape them or brush your teeth. In severe cases, the lesions may spread into your esophagus, or swallowing tube, causing:

      Pain or difficulty swallowing
      A feeling that food gets stuck in the throat or mid-chest area
      Fever, if the infection spreads beyond the esophagus
      Thrush can spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, and skin. This happens more often in people with cancer, HIV, or other conditions that weaken the immune system.

28. QUESTION:
    My infant son, has some type of white stuff in between where his legs meet at the top?
    It looks like some type of fungus or rash in between were the very top of his legs meet the rest of his body. What is this???

    • ANSWER:
      chubby baby, is he? my daughter had that - it's a mix of a yeast infection with dead skin cells and will occur there, in between thigh rolls, at creases behind the knee, up under the chin around the neck, in the armpit, and between the butt cheeks.

      wash the area twice daily with a non-soap, mild cleanser such as Dove baby wash; dry thoroughly but not with a towel - blow on it or if he'll tolerate it, use a blow dryer set on 'low'; then dust with corn starch. don't use baby powder - it can be very unpleasant on irritated skin.

      if it's REALLY bad, you can also add a thin coating of monistat or canestan instead of the powder.

      ETA: thrush does not need to be treated with antibiotics - gentian violet is cheaper, non-prescription, and does the trick way faster without messing with the baby's immune system the way antibiotics do.

29. QUESTION:
    Why does my vagina itch every day?Do i need to go to a clinic?Whats wrong with me?
    First couple weeks it would itch like crazy, everyday all day. Now its at night almost everyday or when ever i take a shower.
    it happened before i started shaving. and there is a clear discharge that comes out.

    • ANSWER:
      Chemical irritants -- such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
      Menopause -- the drop in estrogen causes thinning of the vaginal wall and less lubrication.
      Stress -- may increase vaginal itching and make you more susceptible to infections.
      Vaginal yeast infection -- often includes a discharge that is white and curd-like. Vaginal yeast infections can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy, menstruation, condom use, sexual intercourse, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
      Vaginitis -- inflammation, itching, discharge, and odor caused by other infections (including sexually transmitted diseases). Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common. If a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, however, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.
      Other possible, but less common, causes of vaginal or vulvar itching include:

      Certain skin conditions affecting the vulvar skin, some of which may be precancerous
      To prevent and treat vaginal itching:

      Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
      Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
      Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
      Cleanse the area by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
      Eat yogurt with live cultures or take Lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
      Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
      Keep your blood sugar under good control if you have diabetes.
      Lose weight if you are overweight.
      Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.
      Call your doctor right away if:

      You have increased thirst or appetite, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, or fatigue -- these may be signs of diabetes.
      You have pelvic or lower abdominal pain or fever.

30. QUESTION:
    What causes Thrush in infants?
    Thrush is the white stuff that gets in their mouths and it hurts. Adults can get it also.

    • ANSWER:
      Thrush is a fungal infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Thrush appears in your baby's mouth and forms white patches on the roof, sides and sometimes even the tongue. It resembles cottage cheese and some mothers initially mistake it for milk spit-up-until they try to wipe it away, that is. If you try to gently wipe the white patches away using gauze or a clean finger, you'll notice that the white patches come off. Underneath, you'll notice a red, raw area that may bleed.

      Thrush usually strikes infants when they are two months old or younger, but it also often occurs in older infants.

      Where Does Thrush Come From?
      Thrush is a yeast infection that can be passed from mother to infant and vice versa. No one is sure of the exact cause, although there are many guesses as to what causes this infection.

      Your baby can contract thrush as it passes through the vaginal canal during birth. Hormonal changes after childbirth will bring out thrush in your baby. Your baby may also catch thrush from breastfeeding. If you breastfeed your baby, be sure to let your nipples air dry between feedings; this prevents bacteria from festering.

      How to Treat Thrush
      If you think your baby has thrush, contact your pediatrician. The pediatrician can give you a prescription over the phone for an oral anti-fungal cream, such as Nystatin. Anti-fungal cream should be applied several times per day for about 10 days.

      It is important that you seek immediate treatment for thrush. The white patches can be painful to your child and stand in the way of successful bottle or breastfeeding. This can lead to hunger and dehydration.

      How Do I Prevent Thrush?
      While some babies are simply prone to thrush and there's little you can do to prevent thrush, many cases of thrush in babies can be prevented. There are some simple steps you can follow, such as refraining from unnecessary use of antibiotics and keeping your own stress levels down. Thrush can also be caused by lack of proper sleep, allergies and cracked nipples due to poor latch on.

      Thrush and Breastfeeding
      Because the fungus that causes thrush thrives in warm, dark, wet, sugary places, it can easily transfer itself from your baby's mouth to your breast during breastfeeding. Signs that it has spread to your breasts include:

      sore, cracked nipples
      a vaginal yeast infection
      shooting pains in your breasts during and after breastfeeding

      To help ease your pain, many lactation consultants suggest using dye gentian violet one a day for five to seven days. You might also try applying Lotrimin AF to your nipples after every other feeding. If your pain persists after a week, contact your doctor and seek his advice. If you're dealing with severe pain, you can take an ibuprofen to subside your pain.

      Also, remember that if you have thrush and are breast feeding, your baby probably needs treatment for thrush too.

31. QUESTION:
    My 9 month old has white in his mouth, can someone know what the name of this is?
    He is 9 months old, he has a runny nose & congestion. Noticed white stuff in his mouth & on his tounge. It makes me think of thrush, is there something else it could be?

    • ANSWER:
      my daughter that i gave up for adoption had thrush. is it really white and just on her tongue?
      thrush is highly contagious you should call your baby's doctor right away.

      Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by the candida fungus, also known as yeast. Candida infection is not limited to the mouth; it can occur in other parts of the body as well, causing diaper rash in infants or vaginal yeast infections in women.

      Thrush can affect anyone, though it occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

      What Causes Thrush?
      Small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people and are normally kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing infection.

      Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills. Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely to develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by the hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding.

      What Are the Symptoms of Thrush?
      Thrush usually develops suddenly, but it may become chronic, persisting over a long period of time. A common sign of thrush is the presence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in your mouth usually on your tongue or inner cheeks but also sometimes on the roof of your mouth, gums, tonsils, or back of your throat. The lesions, which may have a "cottage cheese" appearance, can be painful and may bleed slightly when you scrape them or brush your teeth. In severe cases, the lesions may spread into your esophagus, or swallowing tube, causing:

      Pain or difficulty swallowing
      A feeling that food gets stuck in the throat or mid-chest area
      Fever, if the infection spreads beyond the esophagus
      Thrush can spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, and skin. This happens more often in people with cancer, HIV, or other conditions that weaken the immune system.

      How Is Thrush Diagnosed?
      Your dentist can make the diagnosis by examining your mouth. He or she looks for the distinctive white lesions on your mouth, tongue, or cheeks. Lightly brushing the lesions away reveals a reddened, tender area that may bleed slightly. A microscopic examination of tissue from a lesion can confirm the diagnosis.

      Thrush that may extend into your esophagus may require other tests to make the diagnosis. Such tests might include taking a throat culture (swabbing the back of your throat with sterile cotton and studying the microorganisms under a microscope), performing an endoscopy of your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine (examining the lining of these body areas with a lighted camera mounted on the tip of a tube passed through these areas), or taking X-rays of your esophagus

      How Is Thrush Treated?
      While healthy children and adults can be effectively treated, the symptoms my be more severe and difficult to manage in those with weakened immune systems. Antifungal medications, which are generally taken for 10 to 14 days, are often prescribed to treat thrush. These medicines are available in tablets, lozenges, or liquids. Your dentist will have a specific treatment approach designed for you based on your age and the cause of the infection. Because the presence of candida infection can be a symptom of other medical problems, your dentist may suggest you seek care from a medical doctor as well so that any underlying health problems you may have can be treated.

      How Can Thrush Be Prevented?
      The following practices can help minimize your chance of developing thrush:

      Follow good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day.
      Avoid mouthwashes or sprays. These products can destroy the normal balance of microorganisms in your mouth.
      See your dentist regularly. Especially if you have diabetes or wear dentures.
      Limit the amount of sugar and yeast-containing foods you eat. Foods such as bread, beer, and wine encourage candida growth.
      If you smoke, quit. Ask your doctor or dentist about ways to help you kick the habit.

      http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-thrush

32. QUESTION:
    why does my vagina itch and kinda burn?
    im not on my period and i didnt just have it,
    but i have benn kinda itchy and burning,, it sucks.
    help?

    • ANSWER:
      Common causes of vaginal itching include:

      Chemical irritants -- such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
      Menopause -- the drop in estrogen causes thinning of the vaginal wall and less lubrication.
      Stress -- may increase vaginal itching and make you more susceptible to infections.
      Vaginal yeast infection -- often includes a discharge that is white and curd-like. Vaginal yeast infections can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy, menstruation, condom use, sexual intercourse, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
      Vaginitis -- inflammation, itching, discharge, and odor caused by other infections (including sexually transmitted diseases). Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common. If a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, however, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.

      To prevent and treat vaginal itching:

      Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
      Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
      Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
      Cleanse the area by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
      Eat yogurt with live cultures or take lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
      Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
      Keep your blood sugar under good control if you have diabetes.
      Lose weight if you are overweight.
      Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.

33. QUESTION:
    How long does Thrush last?
    Without taking any medication, how long would this last in an infant?
    Okay, we're not using meds, that's not saying we're not TREATING it. I guess I should've made that clear. I am breastfeeding and have started taking probiotics to fight against the yeast. I've also cut out all sugar (including natural sugar like in fruit.) and all white flour (which turns to sugar.) and therefore I'm cutting off the power source so the yeast won't grow.

    • ANSWER:
      Ok, thrush survivor (hopefully!) here! DO NOT take antibiotics or give them to your baby. They make thrush worse. You need anti-fungal medication. Nystatin is an old standby, but it's failure rate is over 50%. Try micozanole instead. It should clear up within a few days. But yeast is difficult to get rid of sometimes, so be patient.
      You need to see the doctor to clear it up; it can be painful for infants and cause them to eat less. Some babies never feel pain from it, and some never exhibit symptoms even if mom is and she's nursing. That's what happened with me. If you're nursing, you need treatment as well. I battled it on my nipples and in my milk ducts for about 3 months, and I'm feeling a lot better. If you are nursing, steer clear of the Nystatin ointment, like I said, and try taking acidophilus, using Gentian Violet, and Grapefruit Seed Extract. Diflucan is a last resort because it's systemic, used when the fungal infection spreads to the milk ducts. It's terribly painful, so make sure you get help.
      Edit: You're doing great, but sometimes yeast is really tough to get rid of (been there!), so do consider the Gentian Violet, Grapefruit Seed Extract, and you can try a vinegar/water nipple rinse. I understand not wanting to take traditional medication, and it didn't work so well for us either. It's true that cutting out sugar in your diet helps, the only issue remaining is the natural sugars in breastmilk, which the yeast can thrive on. Hopefully it goes away quickly in your case.

34. QUESTION:
    My 4 year-old-daughter has bad breath, her tongue is white in the back w/bumps. What is this?
    She Also clears her throat frequently, and says she feels like there are "boogers" in her throat. I believe this is allergy related as she has done this off and on since the age of one. But the bad breath and white, pastey tongue is something new! I have no idea what this could be.

    • ANSWER:
      Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by the candida fungus, also known as yeast. Candida infection is not limited to the mouth; it can occur in other parts of the body as well, causing diaper rash in infants or vaginal yeast infections in women.

      Thrush can affect anyone, though it occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

      What Causes Thrush?

      Small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people and are normally kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing infection.

      Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills. Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely to develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by the hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding.

      What Are the Symptoms of Thrush?

      Thrush usually develops suddenly, but it may become chronic, persisting over a long period of time. A common sign of thrush is the presence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in your mouth usually on your tongue or inner cheeks but also sometimes on the roof of your mouth, gums, tonsils, or back of your throat. The lesions, which may have a "cottage cheese" appearance, can be painful and may bleed slightly when you scrape them or brush your teeth. In severe cases, the lesions may spread into your esophagus, or swallowing tube, causing:

      Pain or difficulty swallowing
      A feeling that food gets stuck in the throat or mid-chest area
      Fever, if the infection spreads beyond the esophagus
      Thrush can spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, and skin. This happens more often in people with cancer, HIV, or other conditions that weaken the immune system.

35. QUESTION:
    What is this white stuff in my mouth?
    I don't know if anyone else has this but every morning, after rinsing and brushing my teeth thoroughly, I get this white stuff in my mouth. Its sort of like slime like. They cling to my gum and I can easily swoop them up with my tongue and spit them out. I dont know what they are. It doesnt physically irritate my mouth but I would like to know what they are and how to get rid of them

    • ANSWER:
      infants can get yeast infections in their mouth, Thrush, and it sounds the same white stuff that can be removed and it doesn't seem to hurt. Doctors prescribe a special dropper medication that gets rid of it in a matter of days.
      We all have yeast in our mouth but certain things can cause our levels to become unbalanced. Depression and allergies to foods can cause an unbalance in yeast activity and adults can get this after using antibiotics, and with conditions such as
      iron deficiencies, diseases like diabetes, hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism etc.
      You should see a doctor and definitely request blood work to rule out any of the above illnesses but try not to worry it probably just one of the simpler reasons.
      Good Luck

36. QUESTION:
    How does a doctor help someone with small ear canals?
    the same person is hard of hearing because of it.

    **i would like facts.**
    ***a website, or something from Harvard or another reliable website (NOT WIKIPEDIA)***

    • ANSWER:
      HI XXMoon

      Here are some action ideas to get healed.

      Causes of Hearing Disorders
      Among the most common causes of hearing disorders are allergies, antibiotic and other drug use, the buildup of earwax, infection and inflammation, and chronic exposure to loud noises.

      Quick Action Plan for Hearing Disorders

      1. Clean your ears regularly, using cotton swabs, but do so gently to avoid damaging ear tissue.

      2. Avoid exposure to loud noises. If you work in a noisy environment, wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears.

      3. Be screened for both food and environmental allergies. A highly effective method for detecting allergies is electrodermal screening (EDS).

      4. To eliminate allergies, consider enzyme-potentiated desensitization (EPD).

      5. Emphasize a diet rich in organic whole foods, especially plenty of fresh, organic vegetables, along with garlic and onions to boost immunity. Also eat high quality protein foods, such as organic free-range meats, poultry and wild-caught fish.

      6. Avoid all foods to which you are allergic or sensitive, and eliminate all commercially processed foods, as well as sugar, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and caffeine, and all food additives, colorings, and preservatives.

      7. Drink plenty of pure, filtered water throughout the day. Gallon a day!

      8. For hearing problems related to structural imbalances in the skull, craniosacral therapy can be highly effective, particularly for otitis media.

      9. Useful nutrients for hearing problems include vitamin A, beta carotene, B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, MSM, and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Acidophilus supplements are also recommended to prevent infection and systemic yeast overgrowth (candiasis).

      10. Useful herbs include Echinacea, ginkgo biloba, goldenseal, hypericum, and St. John s wort. Drops of tea tree oil and diluted grapeseed extracts inserted in the ear via an eye dropper can also be helpful.

      11. Useful homeopathic remedies include Aconite, Apis mellifica, Belladonna, Chamomilla, Ferrum, phos., Lycopodium, Merc. Sol., Pulsatilla, and Silicea.

      12. Useful homeopathic remedies include Aconite, Apis mellifica, Belladonna, Chamomilla, Ferrum, phos., Lycopodium, Merc. Sol., Pulsatilla, and Silicea.

      13. To help protect infants from developing hearing problems related to infections and allergies, breastfeeding for at least their first six months of life is recommended.

      14. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, most hearing disorders are related to imbalances in the kidney meridian system. Rebalancing kidney energies using acupuncture and Chinese herbs can often resolve hearing problems.

      15. Auditory integration training, such as the Tomatis Method, can be highly effective for resolving hearing problems related to hypersensitivity to high frequency sounds.

      Best of health to you

37. QUESTION:
    My infant has been diagnosed with a yeast infection, and has been prescriped Nystatin.?
    He just finished his antibiotics today for an ear infection. Today he woke up and had bumps on his legs, feet, hands and face. Is this normal? Will the infection begin to go away now that his antibiotic treatment is over? Any help would be great...

    • ANSWER:

38. QUESTION:
    How do you treat men for thrush?

    • ANSWER:
      Candidiasis - oral; Oral thrush

      Definition Return to top
      Oral thrush is a yeast infection of the mucous membranes of the mouth and tongue.

      Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top

      Thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. This organism lives in your mouth and is usually kept in check by healthy organisms that also live there. However, when your resistance to infection is low, the fungus can grow, leading to lesions in your mouth and on your tongue.

      The following can lessen your resistance to infection and increase your chances of getting thrush:

      * Taking antibiotics or steroid medications
      * Having HIV infection or AIDS
      * Receiving chemotherapy for cancer or drugs to suppress your immune system following an organ transplant
      * Being very old or very young
      * Being in poor health
      * Having diabetes

      Thrush is commonly seen in infants. It is not considered abnormal in infants unless it lasts longer than a couple of weeks.

      Candida albicans can also cause yeast infections in the vagina.

      Symptoms Return to top

      Thrush appears as whitish, velvety plaques in the mouth and on the tongue. Underneath the whitish material, there is red tissue that may bleed. The lesions can slowly increase in number and size.

      If you are immunocompromised (for example, you are HIV positive or receiving chemotherapy), the infection can spread to other organs, like the esophagus (causing pain with swallowing), or throughout your body, which can be fatal.

      Signs and tests Return to top

      Your doctor or dentist can almost always diagnose thrush by looking at your mouth and tongue. These fungal lesions have a distinct appearance. If not entirely clear, one of the following tests may be performed to look for the candida organisms:

      * Microscopic examination of mouth scrapings
      * Culture of mouth lesions

      Treatment Return to top

      For thrush in infants, treatment is often NOT necessary. It generally resolves on its own within two weeks.

      There are two goals when treating oral thrush in adults. The first is to improve your immune system's ability to function. For example, in diabetics, good control of diabetes may be enough to clear the infection without other treatment.

      The second is to directly treat the infection. For this purpose, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal mouthwash or lozenges to suck on. These are usually used for 5-10 days. If they don't work, other medication may be prescribed.

      If the infection has spread throughout your body or you have HIV/AIDS, stronger medications may be used, such as ketoconazole (Nizoral) or fluconazole (Diflucan).

      Expectations (prognosis) Return to top

      Thrush in infants may be painful, but is rarely serious. Because of discomfort, it can interfere with eating. If it does not resolve on its own within 2 weeks, call your pediatrician.

      In adults, oral candidiasis can be cured. However, the long-term outlook is dependent on your immune status and the cause of the immune deficit.

      Complications Return to top

      The candida organism can spread throughout your body, causing infection in your esophagus (esophagitis), brain (meningitis), heart (endocarditis), joints (arthritis), or eyes (endophthalmitis).

      Calling your health care provider Return to top

      Call your doctor if:

      * Your infant has had lesions in the mouth consistent with thrush for at least 2 weeks.
      * Your infant is eating poorly due to the lesions.
      * You are a teen or adult with lesions that are consistent with thrush.
      * You have pain or difficulty swallowing.
      * You have symptoms of thrush and you are HIV positive, receiving chemotherapy, or take medications to suppress your immune system.

      Prevention Return to top

      If you have frequent outbreaks of thrush, your doctor may recommend taking antifungal medication on a regular basis to avoid recurrent infections.

      If an infant with thrush is breast-feeding, talk to your doctor about ways to prevent future infections, such as an antifungal medication. Sterilize or discard any pacifiers. For bottle-fed babies with thrush, discard the nipples and buy new ones as the baby's mouth begins to clear.

      To prevent spread of HIV infection, follow safe sex practices and universal precautions when working with blood products.

39. QUESTION:
    Is my red eared slider turtle sick?
    I recently got 2 red eared slider turtles and after a few weeks they both developed white spots or maybe discoloration on their shells. They are eating just fine one of them even more than what it used to eat earlier. Their shells to are hard and strong. I take him out daily for natural sunlight too.
    Also I want to ask is it safe to let them crawl on irregular and dusty floor?

    • ANSWER:
      If their shells are hard, you don't need to worry, not yet. You do need to adjust a few things though.

      White spots could mean anything. Yeast infection, vitamin deficiency, or worst case scenario: beginning of shell rot.

      Daily natural sunlight might not be enough. You may need to get a UVB light. Give them a cuttle bone (available in the bird section of the pet store). Calcium deficiency causes white spots. If they clear up after installing the light and tossing in the cuttle bone, than that must have been the cause......if not......

      Yeast infections are cured fairly easily, but take patience. My RES had one and they are a pain! You must keep them dry and only allow them to swim for a few hours a day, during feeding and just to play. Keep them in a cardboard box completely dry to allow the yeast to dry. If the spots are still there after a week, they may need to go to the vet.

      Shell rot requires antibiotics. Those spots will eventually get sunken in and start to eat away at the turtle. You must take them to the vet if this happens. Sometimes, vets will call in an antibiotic (for a fee) because they don't like stressing turtles out for an appointment. Or he may want to take a look. Find one specializing in exotic animals, the one that your dog goes to may lack the expertise.

      Yes it is safe to let them crawl on the floor. Be sure to use a Clorox wipe on the floor after they are done though if there are infants in the house using the same floor. Turtles carry salmonella and can infect someone touching the floor then touching their mouth. Be sure the floor is safe, no splintering or nails that can cut a turtle's foot.

      Let me know if I can help you further.

40. QUESTION:
    Does Amoxicillan/Antibiotics affect your breastmilk?
    I am still nursing my 8 month old, and I'm afraid that when I get antibiotics for a sinus infection, that they'll affect my breast milk production. Does this happen, or is it just my fear? Also, how easily does a bacterial infection spread? I know a virus just ripped through our house this week, but mine turned into bacterial as of this morning (Green stuff - yukkkkk)
    Anyways, any answers?

    • ANSWER:
      Antibiotics will not reduce your milk production. Low amounts of antibiotics will appear in your milk, then like all drugs only a percentage of what is ingested is absorbed by the person -in this case the baby. The chance of her getting enough antibiotics to have any effect are low. But you should both consider taking probiotics anyway to prevent yeast/thrush -it has no negative effects.

      However you also need to understand that green nasal secretions are almost always caused by a virus. Most doctors still prescribe antibiotics because they either can't be bothered to keep up with the literature or find educating patients too much trouble. You probably will not benefit from antibiotics.

      If you did have a virus and it has become a bacterial infection what happened is that some bacteria you already had on your skin was given the chance to run riot because your immune system is busy elsewhere. You didn't "catch it" from anyone. Bacteria is contagious but if your baby is getting antibodies from you (which your breasts make independently for baby -you aren't "using them up" and your immune system isn't too taxed to make them) and his/her immune system isn't stressed he's probably not going to catch anything.

      Bacteria really doesn't spread through breast milk, it spreads from sneezing, coughing, and not washing hands that came into contact with mucous.

      http://www.askdrsears.com/html/8/T081000.asp
      3. The common cold virus can cause green nasal secretions and a junky sounding cough. Decades ago it was commonly felt that a green nose, productive cough or a rattling chest meant there was a bacterial infection. This belief led to a severe over-use of antibiotics, which in turn has allowed the bacteria that cause ear infections, sinus infections and pneumonia to become tougher and more resistant to antibiotics. Now we know that green or junky does not necessarily mean a bacterial infection. Viruses can also cause this.

      http://www.kellymom.com/health/illness/mom-illness.html
      It is very, very rare for a mom to need to stop breastfeeding for any illness. There are only a few very serious illnesses that might require a mom stop breastfeeding for a period of time or permanently. Per Dr. Ruth Lawrence, "HIV and HTLV-1 are the only infectious diseases that are considered absolute contraindications to breastfeeding in developed countries" (Lawrence & Lawrence 2001).

      During any "ordinary" illness such as a cold, sore throat, flu, tummy bug, fever, mastitis, etc. you should continue to breastfeed. Just remind your doctor you are nursing so that if medications are needed he can prescribe something that is compatible with breastfeeding. Most medications are safe to take while breastfeeding, and for those that are not recommended there is almost always an alternative medication that is safe.

      http://www.kellymom.com/newman/09a-drugs_and_bf.html
      Does the addition of a small amount of medication to the mother s milk make breastfeeding more hazardous than formula feeding? The answer is almost never. Breastfeeding with a little drug in the milk is almost always safer. In other words, being careful means continuing breastfeeding, not stopping.

      Remember that stopping breastfeeding for a week may result in permanent weaning since the baby may then not take the breast again. On the other hand, it should be taken into consideration that some babies may refuse to take the bottle completely, so that the advice to stop is not only wrong, but often impractical as well. On top of that it is easy to advise the mother to pump her milk while the baby is not breastfeeding, but this is not always easy in practice and the mother may end up painfully engorged.

      [...]

      Most drugs are safe if:

      *
      They are commonly prescribed for infants. The amount the baby would get through the milk is much less than he would get if given directly.

41. QUESTION:
    how do you know for sure if you have oral herpes without getting checked?
    im getting the test tomorrow but i would like to know now

    • ANSWER:
      Thrush refers to an infection of the mouth caused by the fungus candida, it is also known as yeast. This kind of is not just limited to the mouth area; it can also occur in other parts of the body, Candida is also the fungus that causes diaper rash in infants and vaginal yeast infections in some women. But, thrush can affect anyone, especially for those people with weak immune system.

      Causes

      There is small amount of candida fungus present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people.

      Some medications can upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause thrush. This includes antibiotics, corticosteroids, and birth control pills. There is illnesses that can inhibit candida infection to develop this include HIV infection, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, dry mouth, and pregnancy.

      Smoking, and even dentures that that don t fit properly also adds up to risk for thrush. Nursing mothers can pass candida infection to their infants during breast-feeding.

      Symptoms

      Thrush is usually develops suddenly, and it may become chronic, persisting over a long period of time.

      Presence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in your mouth that can be compared to a cottage cheese appearance that are painful and might bleed when scraped by brushing the teeth. In some cases these lesions can spread into esophageal tube that causes pain and/or difficulty swallowing as well as fever.

      People with weak immune systems like HIV infected can be easily infected with this kind of fungus, this leads to spreading of the infection to other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, and skin.

42. QUESTION:
    can you get a yeast innfection from having to much sex and not wearing underware?

    • ANSWER:
      "Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida, affects nearly 75% of all adult women at least once their lives.

      Candida is a relatively harmless yeast, normally found in the mouth, throat, intestines and genitourinary tract of most humans. In the yeast state, Candida is simply a non-invasive, sugar-fermenting organism, whose purpose is to destroy harmful gut flora (bacteria). In a normal environment, Candida is controlled by a properly functioning immune system and helpful "friendly" gut flora like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacillus laterosporus, all of which suppress undesirable bacteria and yeasts and help maintain a balanced, healthy immune system.

      When the balance between the normal microorganisms of the vagina are disrupted, however, Vulvovaginal Candidiasis can result.

      Commonly referred to simply as a vaginal yeast infection, vulvovaginal Candidiasis disorder occurs when the acidity of the vagina changes. This may be due to hormone imbalance, in conjunction with other illnesses (such as Diabetes), in those who are immunosuppressed (such with AIDS or HIV), in those who use oral contraceptives, and commonly, with antibiotic use (particularly tetracycline)[.1, 2] Pregnancy, prolonged use of steroid hormones, acid blockers and ulcer medications, immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory drugs, excessive stress, and improper diet can also contribute to Vulvovaginal Candidiasis.[3]

      Vulvovaginal Candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted disease, nor is it an airborne infection. It can, however, be transmitted from one partner to another through intercourse, deep kissing or oral sex.[4] Fortunately, if the other person is healthy, his or her immune system will destroy the cells and prevent infection. Still, an estimated 12%-15% of men develop symptoms such as itching and rash following sexual contact with an infected partner.[5] It is also possible for breastfeeding mothers to transmit the infection to their infants.

      The National Institutes of Health[6] lists the following as the most common symptoms of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis:

      Abnormal vaginal discharge (ranging from a slightly watery, white discharge to a thick, white, chunky discharge)
      Vaginal and labial itching or burning
      Redness and/or inflammation of the vulva
      Pain with intercourse
      Painful urination

      Diagnosis is made through visual examination, symptom review and in some cases, laboratory tests. Once identified, Candida can be successfully treated through several measures. Remedies include the determination and elimination of any causative factors, application of antifungal medications, lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking and reducing or avoiding alcohol consumption), removing (or reducing) pollution and toxins in your environment, and strengthening your immune system through the combined application of a healthy lifestyle plus proper nutrition and probiotic supplements.

      Before undergoing any treatment conventional or otherwise be sure you are dealing with a true vaginal yeast infection. Self-treating a suspected vaginal yeast condition may delay diagnosis and effective treatment of a similar vaginal infection that will not respond to yeast treatments. In fact, one study by the American Social Health Association found that 70% of women self-treated vaginal infections before calling a health care provider. Most often, they incorrectly thought they had a yeast infection when, in fact, it was bacterial vaginosis.[7]
      Common treatments include antifungal medicines in the form of tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories, including [8]:

      Femstat: an antifungal type of antibiotic applied as a vaginal cream. Femstat is available as a 1-day or 3-day treatment. See http://www.drugdigest.org/dd/dvh/uses/0,... for details.

      Clotrimazole: Clotrimazole comes as a lozenge, topical cream or solution formula, as well as in over-the-counter vaginal creams and tablet forms. See http://www.aegis.com/factshts/network/ac... for more information.

      Monistat: these prefilled applicators come in 1, 3 or 7 day treatments. See http://www.monistat.com/index.jsp... for details.

      Nystatin (Mycostatin): comes in tablet or cream form. See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi... for details.

      GyneCure: comes as vaginal ointment and ovule. See http://www.rxmed.com/b.main/b2.pharmaceu... for more information.

      Diflucan: an oral suspension not recommended for use in pregnancy. See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi... for details.

      Cranberry Juice: always helpful for bladder infections, cranberry lowers the ph of urine. Supporters say that the juice may also help prevent the occurrence of yeast infections and aid in their treatment.[9]

      Lactobacillus acidophilus: yogurt! You can ingest it, or as some braver folks do, insert it vaginally [see http://www.msu.edu/user/eisthe... You can also take acidophilus pills from your local health store.

      Not so common remedies[10, 11] include:

      Garlic: yes, garlic. Supporters of this tried and true method say that a fresh, peeled clove of garlic can cure a yeast infection in a matter of days. Wrap the peeled garlic clove in gauze, tie the ends with unwaxed, unflavored dental floss but leave a bit of floss hanging for removal and insert it vaginally. Leave it in for several hours or even overnight. Repeat as necessary until the infection has resolved. Others say you can also use the garlic capsules sold as dietary supplements in health food stores.
      Tea tree oil: commonly used in Italy, tea tree oil has been shown to be effective against yeast. Widely available, this essential oil treatment may be just what helps you. Check with your local alternative health practitioner for proper methods of use.

      Boric acid vaginal suppositories (600 mg/day for 10 days) are effective, even in cases of resistant infections.
      Whichever treatment you try, vaginal yeast infections should be cleared up within two weeks or less of treatment; often even within a few days. If you suffer from recurrent or resistant infections, see your doctor."

43. QUESTION:
    I have a question about yeast infection in an infant?
    So i changed my babies diaper this morning and didnt notice anything unusual,then she pooped so i changed her and when i went to clean her one last time with the wipe i noticed on the inside lips there was like this dried white, It came off, is this yeast

    • ANSWER:
      It is not impossible. I had my son at the clinic just this morning as he has some white (kinda crusty) discharge and his penis was bright red. He would get it one day, it would be gone the next, and it would come back. She said it was yeast, and to buy some Canesten to apply when it acts up. However, if you are breastfeeding and have cream for thrush, you can use that as well.
      I think my son has it because he was on antibiotic, but that is just my opinion. She never gave a reason for it but said it was common.

44. QUESTION:
    WHY DO I ALWAYS GET YEAST INFECTIONS lN MY THROAT? HOW DO I STOP THEM?

    I DONT EAT P.USSY! THIS IS A SERIOUS QUESTION, AND I NEED REAL HELP.

    • ANSWER:
      Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by the candida fungus, also known as yeast. Candida infection is not limited to the mouth; it can occur in other parts of the body as well, causing diaper rash in infants or vaginal yeast infections in women.

      Thrush can affect anyone, though it occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

      What Causes Thrush?
      Small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people and are normally kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing infection.

      Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills. Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely to develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by the hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding.

45. QUESTION:
    can anyone tell me some tips or some cream to control vaginal itching?
    i tried using vagisel cream but not working . am not able to sleep at night because of this but there is no itching in day time pls help

    • ANSWER:
      Vaginal itching
      Common causes of vaginal itching include:

      Chemical irritants -- such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
      Vaginal yeast infection -- often includes a discharge that is white and curd-like. Vaginal yeast infections can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy, menstruation, condom use, sexual intercourse, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
      Vaginitis -- inflammation, itching, discharge, and odor caused by other infections (including sexually transmitted diseases). Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common. If a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, however, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.
      Menopause -- the drop in estrogen causes thinning of the vaginal wall and less lubrication.
      Stress -- may increase vaginal itching and make you more susceptible to infections.
      Other possible, but less common, causes of vaginal or vulvar itching include:

      Pinworms (a parasitic infection mainly affecting children)
      Certain skin conditions affecting the vulvar skin, some of which may be precancerous
      Home Care Return to top

      To prevent and treat vaginal itching:

      Keep your genital area clean and dry. Use plain, unscented soap.
      Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble bath.
      Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from synthetic materials. For infants and toddlers, change diapers often.
      Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.
      Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches.
      Eat yogurt with live cultures or take lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when using antibiotics. Check with your doctor.
      Cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.
      Lose weight if you are over weight.
      Keep your blood sugars under good control if you have diabetes.
      It is also helpful to:

      Avoid scratching, which will only aggravate the problem.
      Avoid overexertion, heat, and excessive sweating.
      Delay sexual activity until your symptoms get better or at least use a lubricant during intercourse.
      Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading sexually transmitted diseases.
      If you know that you have a yeast infection because your symptoms are exactly the same as those in the past, try over-the-counter creams or vaginal suppositories
      http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003159.htm#Definition

      WHEN TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR

      --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

      * Itching persists more than three days, doesn't respond to home remedies or is getting progressively worse.

      What Your Symptom Is Telling You

      Unless you spend your summers at a nudist camp, your private parts are often covered in three or four layers of material perhaps a pantiliner, panties, a pair of snug-fitting pantyhose and your coolest Calvin Kleins.

      So what is that warm, moist part of you doing under all those layers?

      It's itching! And it's driving you nuts.

      Vaginal itching can come from something as simple as trapping bacteria for too long under too many layers of too-tight clothes. All that warmth and moisture provide perfect conditions for incubating infections.

      In fact, itching can be the unwelcome calling card of a wide variety of infections, ranging from bacterial vaginitis to yeast (also called Candida albicans or monilia) and trichomoniasis.

      The itching can also signal an allergy to a chemical in soap, deodorant or dye, or may simply be a sign of thinning vaginal tissues in women approaching menopause.

      Symptom Relief

      Let's take a soothing look at how to banish that infernal itching.

      Sitz in some salt. Several forms of vaginitis will often respond to a simple home remedy the saline sitz bath. Here's the recipe from Gideon Panter, M.D., a gynecologist in New York City.

      Dissolve a half-cup table salt in a shallow tub of warm water. In the tub, insert your finger into your vagina to let the warm salt water in, then remove your finger and relax for 10 to 15 minutes. Two or three consecutive nights of sitz baths should ease the itch, if yours is home treatable, Dr. Panter says.

      Abstain for the duration. Don't have sexual intercourse until your itching has cleared up, Dr. Panter says. If the organism that set up its itchy housekeeping in your vagina was transmitted by your partner, there's no sense in re-exposing yourself to trouble. Take a few days to show love in other ways, he suggests.

      Consider the condom. Condoms provide wonderful protection against both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease. If condom use always seems to be followed by a bout of vaginal itching, however, it's possible that an allergy to the condom's latex rubber, powder coating or lubricant could be the problem.

      Try this simple home patch test from Bruce Katz, M.D., a dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. Tape an inner-side piece cut from a fresh condom to one arm, and an outer-side piece to the other arm. Leave both pieces in place for 48 hours, and keep the areas dry. If both arms react, you're allergic to the rubber. If only the arm with the inside of the condom taped to it gets itchy or rashy, you're allergic to the powder. If only the arm with the outside piece reacts, you're allergic to the lubricant.

      Does this mean you should avoid using condoms? Absolutely not, says Dr. Katz. Their role in reducing infection risk is too critical. Instead, have your partner use two lambskin over latex if you are allergic to rubber, or reverse the order if the powder is the problem. Why not just switch to lambskin? Lambskin on its own can't protect against some organisms, including the virus that causes AIDS. Dr. Katz says a nonlatex condom should be on the market shortly, which will solve the problem entirely.

      Ask your doctor. You'll need your doctor's help to determine which type of infection is causing your itching. If you've been diagnosed with yeast infections in the past, and are very familiar with the specific symptoms, call your doctor for a prescription, recommends R. Don Gambrell, Jr., M.D., clinical professor of endocrinology and obstetrics and gynecology at the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics in Augusta. Your doctor will prescribe antifungal medications such as Vagistat, Nystatin or Monistat.

      Trichomoniasis is treated with the prescription antibiotic Flagyl. Bacterial infections call for antibacterial agents either sulfa drugs or, if you're allergic to sulfa, with Betadine antiseptic, an over-the-counter product, says Dr. Gambrell.

      "And be sure to have your doctor test you for the human papilloma virus (HPV)," recommends Jessica L. Thomasson, M.D., a gynecologist at Columbia Medical Center in Milwaukee. This virus, which causes genital warts, is an important and frequently overlooked cause of vaginal itching, she says.

      Get help for menopause symptoms. If you're approaching menopause, ask your doctor about treatments for itching caused by changes that are taking place in the vagina. Hormone replacement therapy is an option, but you should also ask about prescription hormonal creams for the vagina.

      Bag the douche and powder. Douching not only won't help to relieve itching or vaginitis, it may be dangerous, says David Eschenbach, M.D., professor and chief of the Division of Gynecology at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. Douching may drive infectious material up through the cervix and cause pelvic inflammatory disease, he says.

      The use of talcum powder or cornstarch is questionable, too, Dr. Eschenbach says. Over time, the tiny particles may collect near the ovaries and increase ovarian cancer risk.

      Defeating the Yeast Beast and more....
      http://www.mothernature.com/Library/bookshelf/Books/16/254.cfm
      http://health.allrefer.com/health/vaginal-itching-info.html
      http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/sym/vaginal_itching.htm
      http://www.vagisil.com/understanding_itch.shtml

      Now you have a lot to read and I am sure you'll find the right way to deal with your problem.

46. QUESTION:
    My 7 month old son has some white patches on his lips and a little inside his mouth (on the side) cheek area?
    what is this? Is it from his teeth coming on? what should i do help

    • ANSWER:
      It's thrush...which is a form of yeast infection that occurs in the mouth. He needs an antibiotic, or some gentian violet from a health food store, and he'll be just fine. If you breastfeed, it's also a possibility that the thrush can spread to your nipples, so if they're sore or tender, that could be it. Your son needs to have a visit to the pediatrician, who will tell you the best thing to do for all of it. It's not a big deal at all; my daughter had thrush at about the same age, actually. It only lasted a few days. Just another of those infant infections that goes around to most babies, and it's probably nothing you did, so don't feel bad! Good luck.

47. QUESTION:
    how do i get the cradle out of my baby hair? where does it come from?

    • ANSWER:
      Treatments for Cradle Cap
      For mild cradle cap, time is often the best treatment, as many children get better on their own by the time they are about a year old.
      When treatment for cradle cap is necessary, most experts recommend that you begin with home remedies, such as frequently shampooing your baby's hair with a mild baby shampoo and then using a soft brush to try and brush off the scales. Another common home remedy for cradle cap is to rub in a little baby oil or mineral oil into your baby's scalp, leave it on for 10 or 15 minutes, which should soften the scales, brush off the scales with a soft brush, and then shampoo off the oil. Remember that leaving the oil on too long may make the cradle cap worse.

      Your pediatrician may recommend other treatments for more extensive cases of cradle cap, including:

      applying a steroid cream or lotion, starting with an OTC steroid, such as Cortaid, and moving up to something like Derma-Smoothe FS lotion for really tough cases, especially if the scalp around the scales is very red and irritated.
      washing your child's hair with an antiseborrheic or antidandruff shampoo such as Selsun Blue, Sebulex shampoo, or T-Gel a few times a week.
      prescribing an antibiotic for secondary infections of the scalp.
      using a topical or oral antifungal medication or antifungal shampoo.
      What You Need To Know
      Once you get your child's cradle cap treated, you often have to take steps, such as continuing to use an antiseborrheic shampoo, to prevent it from coming back.

      Some children with cradle cap also have the rash behind their ears and in the creases of their neck, arms, face, and diaper area, at which time it is called seborrheic dermatitis. Although this rash can resemble eczema, unlike eczema, it is usually not very itchy.

      Cradle cap is thought to be influenced by maternal hormones a baby gets during pregnancy, which can over stimulate oil glands.

      Infants with widespread seborrheic dermatitis and other symptoms, such as failure to thrive or chronic diarrhea, may have other conditions, such as Leiner's disease or Langerhans cell histiocytosis X.

      Some experts think that cradle cap might be a mild yeast infection caused by Malassezia furfur, which is why topical and oral antifungal medications are sometimes used as treatments for extensive cradle cap.

48. QUESTION:
    Parents that only get one or two vaccines at a time?
    Do you see a difference in your childs reaction? Do you think it's worth doing, or is it more painful for the baby? Just curious thinking about doing this please let me know what you experienced. Also do you get your childs influenza shot im thinking about not getting that one it seems unesesary to me. Don't we get the flu even if we had the shot? Do babies get the flu after the shot??

    • ANSWER:
      Your idea is a good one. Reducing the risk for your child is the highest priority here. Multiple vaccines given at the same time increase the chances of injury or reaction. Not only is that common sense, it is also true. You can read some examples of vaccine reactions at the Vaccine Adverse Effect Reporting System. Unfortunately, only about 10% of all vaccine reactions are reported (http://vaers.hhs.gov).

      Our oldest daughter is an example of how multiple pediatric vaccines can damage a tiny infant immune system (we thank God that she appears to be neurologically unaffected, though we are still trying to bring her back into balance physically). The damage became more and more evident after each "round" of pediatric vaccines. We found it necessary to suspend all additional vaccinations shortly after her 6 month round. She had 12 different injections in those 6 months and some were combo shots. I had 12 in my entire life, according to my shot records (late 70's-early 80's). Now our children are supposed to have 36 before even entering school, and there are more vaccines coming. How much is too much? Our youngest is two and has never had a single vaccine. She is one of the healthiest kids I know. She has never needed an antibiotic or any other prescription medication. We have been to the doctor twice in her life, both times I was reassured with a diagnosis of common cold. My close friend was a Biology major in college, who believes in vaccinations. Her 3 young children receive all recommended vaccines. After geting the varicella vaccine, they all contracted chicken pox from it. On top of that, those poor kids are always coughing and congested. One has eye problems, the other has recurring yeast and bacterial infections. The youngest has chronic ear infections. Just today they had to drive two hours to see a specialist and get yet another antibiotic for him. She is nearly pulling her hair out.

      Vaccines are partially effective and only offer temporary immunity, usually between 7-12 years depending on type. Out breaks usually consist of both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. The flu shot still contains the full amount of Thimerosal(Mercury), which is a dangerous neurotoxin. Pregnant women are told not to eat fish, yet our public health system will inject mercury into any pregnant mother or infant/child in the flu shot. It makes no sense. The vaccine causes the immune system to be less able to defend against illnesses introduced naturally. My two children and I have never had the flu shot. We have never had the flu. My husband got it last year (against my advice) and he was sick with the flu for a week and had to take time off work. My posts usually do not contain personal experiences, I don't know why tonight is different. I guess I'm intrigued by your question. I'm also listing some informative websites below. Get as much info as you can before making a decision.

      Japan delayed all vaccines until after age two and the SIDS rate declined as a result. I answered a question just last week from a mother concerned about her infant gasping for breath and very difficult to wake after receiving the DTaP, which has been independently studied for decreased respirations in infants. Scary. There is a choice, many, in fact. Take one decision at a time. Read a research until you are comfortable. When in doubt, delay. Good luck and if you need more info or links, I'm happy to help. God bless.

49. QUESTION:
    i have this friend who has an infection?
    she complains that she has this itching and burning when urinating, so i went on the net and checked and found out that she could have a yeast infection, i also told her she needs to go to the doctor, but she won't, she wants me to go on the net and look up home remedies, what else can i do to encourage her to go to the doctor? i could be wrong about what she might have.

    • ANSWER:
      As others have said, it could be a yeast infection, but it could also be something else (STD, interstitial cystitis, etc.) and she should really be diagnosed before she starts self-treating w/home remedies. In the event it is candida (yeast), here is a helpful article.

      "Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida, affects nearly 75% of all adult women at least once their lives.

      Candida is a relatively harmless yeast, normally found in the mouth, throat, intestines and genitourinary tract of most humans. In the yeast state, Candida is simply a non-invasive, sugar-fermenting organism, whose purpose is to destroy harmful gut flora (bacteria). In a normal environment, Candida is controlled by a properly functioning immune system and helpful "friendly" gut flora like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacillus laterosporus, all of which suppress undesirable bacteria and yeasts and help maintain a balanced, healthy immune system.

      When the balance between the normal microorganisms of the vagina are disrupted, however, Vulvovaginal Candidiasis can result.

      Commonly referred to simply as a vaginal yeast infection, vulvovaginal Candidiasis disorder occurs when the acidity of the vagina changes. This may be due to hormone imbalance, in conjunction with other illnesses (such as Diabetes), in those who are immunosuppressed (such with AIDS or HIV), in those who use oral contraceptives, and commonly, with antibiotic use (particularly tetracycline)[.1, 2] Pregnancy, prolonged use of steroid hormones, acid blockers and ulcer medications, immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory drugs, excessive stress, and improper diet can also contribute to Vulvovaginal Candidiasis.[3]

      Vulvovaginal Candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted disease, nor is it an airborne infection. It can, however, be transmitted from one partner to another through intercourse, deep kissing or oral sex.[4] Fortunately, if the other person is healthy, his or her immune system will destroy the cells and prevent infection. Still, an estimated 12%-15% of men develop symptoms such as itching and rash following sexual contact with an infected partner.[5] It is also possible for breastfeeding mothers to transmit the infection to their infants.

      The National Institutes of Health[6] lists the following as the most common symptoms of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis:

      Abnormal vaginal discharge (ranging from a slightly watery, white discharge to a thick, white, chunky discharge)
      Vaginal and labial itching or burning
      Redness and/or inflammation of the vulva
      Pain with intercourse
      Painful urination

      Diagnosis is made through visual examination, symptom review and in some cases, laboratory tests. Once identified, Candida can be successfully treated through several measures. Remedies include the determination and elimination of any causative factors, application of antifungal medications, lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking and reducing or avoiding alcohol consumption), removing (or reducing) pollution and toxins in your environment, and strengthening your immune system through the combined application of a healthy lifestyle plus proper nutrition and probiotic supplements.

      Before undergoing any treatment conventional or otherwise be sure you are dealing with a true vaginal yeast infection. Self-treating a suspected vaginal yeast condition may delay diagnosis and effective treatment of a similar vaginal infection that will not respond to yeast treatments. In fact, one study by the American Social Health Association found that 70% of women self-treated vaginal infections before calling a health care provider. Most often, they incorrectly thought they had a yeast infection when, in fact, it was bacterial vaginosis.[7]
      Common treatments include antifungal medicines in the form of tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories, including [8]:

      Femstat: an antifungal type of antibiotic applied as a vaginal cream. Femstat is available as a 1-day or 3-day treatment. See http://www.drugdigest.org/dd/dvh/uses/0,... for details.

      Clotrimazole: Clotrimazole comes as a lozenge, topical cream or solution formula, as well as in over-the-counter vaginal creams and tablet forms. See http://www.aegis.com/factshts/network/ac... for more information.

      Monistat: these prefilled applicators come in 1, 3 or 7 day treatments. See http://www.monistat.com/index.jsp...... for details.

      Nystatin (Mycostatin): comes in tablet or cream form. See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi... for details.

      GyneCure: comes as vaginal ointment and ovule. See http://www.rxmed.com/b.main/b2.pharmaceu... for more information.

      Diflucan: an oral suspension not recommended for use in pregnancy. See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi... for details.

      Cranberry Juice: always helpful for bladder infections, cranberry lowers the ph of urine. Supporters say that the juice may also help prevent the occurrence of yeast infections and aid in their treatment.[9]

      Lactobacillus acidophilus: yogurt! You can ingest it, or as some braver folks do, insert it vaginally [see http://www.msu.edu/user/eisthe...... You can also take acidophilus pills from your local health store.

      Not so common remedies[10, 11] include:

      Garlic: yes, garlic. Supporters of this tried and true method say that a fresh, peeled clove of garlic can cure a yeast infection in a matter of days. Wrap the peeled garlic clove in gauze, tie the ends with unwaxed, unflavored dental floss but leave a bit of floss hanging for removal and insert it vaginally. Leave it in for several hours or even overnight. Repeat as necessary until the infection has resolved. Others say you can also use the garlic capsules sold as dietary supplements in health food stores.
      Tea tree oil: commonly used in Italy, tea tree oil has been shown to be effective against yeast. Widely available, this essential oil treatment may be just what helps you. Check with your local alternative health practitioner for proper methods of use.

      Boric acid vaginal suppositories (600 mg/day for 10 days) are effective, even in cases of resistant infections.
      Whichever treatment you try, vaginal yeast infections should be cleared up within two weeks or less of treatment; often even within a few days. If you suffer from recurrent or resistant infections, see your doctor."

50. QUESTION:
    what is the cause of Gardenella in pregnancy I was diagnosed today with a moderate case?

    • ANSWER:
      Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by the overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina, including Gardnerella vaginalis, Gardneralla mobiluncus, and Mycoplasma hominis. Bacterial vaginosis is grossly underdiagnosed because many women assume they have a yeast infection and treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications.

      Incidence and Prevalence
      Bacterial vaginosis accounts for 60% of vulvovaginal infections. Young adult women, particularly those who are sexually active, are most commonly affected.

      Causes and Risk Factors

      BV is caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Lacotbacillus, helpful bacteria, metabolizes glycogen to lactic acid in the vagina and maintains normal vaginal pH, which provides a natural defense against unhealthy bacteria proliferation.

      When the defense is weakened, other bacteria present in the vagina (e.g., Bacteroides sp, Peptostreptococcus sp, Gardnerella vaginalis, G. mobiluncus, Mycoplasma hominis) proliferate and cause symptoms. Aboout 50% of women have G. vaginalis in their vaginal flora but do not develop infection.

      Broad-spectrum antibiotics may destroy healthy bacteria, disrupt the vagina's normal flora, and promote infection. Douching, overused or retained tampons, intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs), diaphragms, contraceptive sponges, and products containing nonoxynol-9 may also disrupt the balance.

      Bacterial vaginosis also is associated with having multiple sex partners, a new monogamous sexual relationship, and a history of STDs.

      Signs and Symptoms

      A fishy vaginal odor, itching, and irritation are common signs of BV and may be particularly noticeable after intercourse or menses. It may be accompanied by a smooth, sticky white or gray discharge 4 days to 4 weeks following exposure. Elevated vaginal pH level is also a symptom.

      Complications
      BV is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, tubal (ectopic) pregnancy, premature birth, and low birth weight in infants born to infected mothers.

      Diagnosis

      Diagnosis is usually made by visual observation and by smell. A pelvic examination is performed to determine whether the cervix is producing abnormal secretions and to check for other diseases.

      Vaginal fluid may be treated with a 10% solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH), which makes the characteristic odor more pronounced. A sample is usually taken for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of bacteria, and pH levels are checked. Most physicians recommend a full STD screening.

      Treatment

      Antibiotics such as metronidazole and clindamycin are generally prescribed, as oral (pill) or topical (cream) treatments. When used topically, these medications may cause side effects such as stinging, burning, and irritation. Douching should be avoided.

      Sex partners may require treatment if infection recurs.