|
Skin yeast infectionsA yeast infection can present itself in other places besides the vagina. A yeast infection can be present in the mouth. This is called thrush and is characterized by white patches on the tongue, roof and sides of the mouth. A yeast infection can also develop on the skin. There are several different types of skin yeast infections, however they are all caused by the same microorganism. This microorganism is called Candida albicans. It normally lives in small amounts on your skin and kept in check by other microorganisms. A yeast infection will occur when something disrupts the balance of microorganisms. Yeast will run rampant if given the chance. Let's look at the different types of skin yeast infections. Intertrigo is a yeast infection of the folds of the skin. These infections commonly occur in warm moist body areas, such as the armpits, under the breasts, in the groin area and under skin folds of obese people. Intertrigo is characterized by a intensely red, glistening rash with scaling on the edges. It is treated with anti-fungal creams such as miconazole. In addition to treatment, it is very important to keep the skin folds as dry as possible to prohibit yeast growth. Candidal diaper rash is another form of skin yeast infection. This is characterized by a red, raised rash that starts in the diaper area. This type of rash will form fluid filled pustules and can spread to other parts of the body such as the thighs, genital creases, genitals and abdomen. This type of rash can come from the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract and is easily treated with an anti-fungal cream.To prevent the rash from recurring, apply a barrier cream such as zinc oxide or Vaseline to the diaper area after bathing. Candidal paronychia is a yeast infection of the nail fold. In some cases, it will cause a soft, watery swelling around the fingernail and a pus like discharge. Erosio interdigitalsis blastomycetica is a candidal infection between the finger webs. It is most commonly seen in people with diabetes and those who work with water. It is characterized by skin softening and redness around the webs of the fingers. Most skin yeast infections can be cleared up at home with an anti-fungal cream. If you are having recurrent skin infections or if they are accompanied by fever, chills, abdominal pain or a lot of vaginal discharge, seek medical treatment. While most people do not require hospitalization for treatment of a yeast infection, those with weakened immune system may need a hospital stay with intravenous anti fungals. These people are at high risk of the yeast becoming systemic and causing life threatening illnesses. The best ways to avoid a skin yeast infection is to keep your body clean and dry. Avoid excessive amounts of sugar and caffeine and to wear loose fitting clothing. Keep your doctor informed of any rashes that appear on your skin.
|