Both men and women are at risk of getting an anal yeast infection. Yeast infections thrive in parts of the body that are moist and dark. The areas most commonly effected are the vagina, mouth, folds in the skin such as under breasts or the groin area of babies. The anus and between the buttock cheeks are actually quite a common place for yeast to occur. It is difficult to get rid of yeast in this area as it is hard to keep it dry. There are many anal yeast infection cures but to be successful you must treat the cause and not just the symptoms otherwise the infection will return time and time again. Anyone who has suffered an anal yeast infection knows how unbearable the itch is.
How is an anal yeast infection caused?
The gastrointestinal tract is a breeding ground for yeast organisms. Given the right conditions these organisms will multiply and thrive.
Anal yeast infections can be transferred through anal intercourse if not not wearing protection.
Using condoms is recommended but the lubricants and spermicidal lubricants can sometimes cause a yeast infection if there are any sugar based product or scent in them. Choose a product without this.
Tight or wet clothing can trap moisture in the anal area providing the right breeding ground for infections to take hold.
Being pregnant can increase your chances of getting an anal yeast infection due to hormonal changes.
Diabetics and overweight people are more at risk also.
What are the symptoms of an anal yeast infection?
Anal itching is the first symptom you will notice. There are a number of things that can cause anal itching which may not be a yeast infection, so it’s important to rule those out. Those conditions are hemorrhoids, anal fissures and parasite infections such as pinworms. If you have an anal yeast infection you will also have redness and purple patches of small blisters. The skin around the anus may also feel slightly rough and be dry, scaly and may peel. A burning pain with bowel movements may sometimes be present. Not everyone will have all the symptoms.
Anal yeast infection cures.
The best way to cure an anal yeast infection is to kill the fungus that is causing the yeast infection. There are a few ways of doing this but the most effective is through diet. Starving the yeast of the foods it uses to survive is an important part of eradicating yeast.
There are three ways to deal with an infection, prescriptions, over the counter drugs and home remedies /diet.
Prescription medications include antifungal creams and antibiotics. A long course of oral drugs lasting weeks is prescribed. This is to kill of the yeast living in your gastrointestinal tract. These drugs can be effective in the short term but since antibiotics kills off all the good bacteria that are responsible for keeping the yeast at bay ultimately the infection will return. It’s an imbalance in your system that allows the yeast to thrive in the first place. These medications are also very strong and can cause liver damage.
Over the counter medications include antifungal creams and suppositories. Creams don’t seem to be very effective as they provide moisture at the same time, helping yeast to survive. Some people may find these creams effective but if your infection is recurring probably not.
Home remedies are easy, inexpensive and often more effective. Not all home remedies work with everyone so it’s important to experiment with a few different things to find what works for you. Some things to try are:-
Keep the anal area as dry as possible. Things like changing out of wet clothes and sweaty gym gear straight away. Always pat the area dry, never rub as this just aggravates the area. Use a hair dryer on gentle heat to dry the area after a shower.
Diet is definitely the best cure. Sugar allows yeast to thrive so cut sugar out completely if possible. You have to starve the yeast. Things such as lollies, biscuits, cakes, soft drinks, anything sugary should be stopped. Reducing alcohol is also advised because of its high sugar content. Avoid packaged or processed foods. Getting back to a natural diet of fresh foods definitely puts a stop to yeast.
Include antifungal foods in your diet. These include apple cider vinegar which can be taken internally as a salad dressing or mixed in juice and water. This may be a little strong to take but is great for a whole range of ailments. Coconut oil, Clove oil, Garlic, Ginger and Oregano all have antifungal properties.
Add a natural acidophilus yogurt to your diet also. You can take it in capsule form or add a good probiotic to your diet. This replenishes any good bacteria into your digestive tract.
Apple cider vinegar can also be applied directly to the anus but should be diluted first. This will sting but only momentarily, the relief it provides afterward will be worth it. If the area is just too raw for the vinegar then try coconut oil. It can be very soothing and will help with the itch.
Source by Catherine Laker