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A yeast infection will occur when the balance of yeast and the bacteria that controls yeast growth is upset. Most women will experience a least one or two yeast infections in their lifetimes. However, if you are getting three or more yeast infections per year, you have what is known as chronic yeast infections. Talk to your doctor because this could be a sign of an underlying health problem. Any disease that depletes the immune system can cause yeast infections, so it is vital that you get tested for these diseases.

Did you know that a yeast infection is not limited to the vagina? It can be present in other parts of the body as well and cause various symptoms. These symptoms can range from intense itching to fatigue and headaches. The following are common sites for a yeast infection and their symptoms:

Vaginal yeast infections. This is what most people think of when they hear the word yeast infections. Intense itching in the vaginal area, burning with urination and discharge are all common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection. Gastrointestinal yeast infection. A yeast infection that is present in the gastrointestinal system will cause heartburn, bloating, diarrhea or constipation.

Respiratory allergies. An overgrowth of yeast in the body can cause runny nose, facial pain, wheezing and sneezing.

Central nervous system. Yeast infection in the body can affect the central nervous system and cause depression, anxiety, memory deficits or loss of ability to concentrate.

Menstrual abnormalities. Yeast infections can cause severe menstrual tension or PMS and menstrual irregularities.
General systemic symptoms. A yeast infection can be systemic, which means all through your body. A systemic infection can cause fatigue, headaches or irritability.

As you can see, the above symptoms are pretty general and can be a symptom of many diseases, so therefore a yeast infection would be hard to diagnose as the cause. However, if tests for other causes are negative and you are still experiencing recurring symptoms, talk with your doctor about treating you for a chronic yeast infection. Treatment for chronic yeast infection can be quite complex and involve months of antifungal medicine. Food changes may also be implemented to reduce the amount of yeast growth in the body. Foods rich in sugar and simple carbohydrates have been linked to yeast overgrowth.

Men can get yeast infections also. It is usually contracted by sex with a partner that has a yeast infection. Occasionally, some men who take antibiotics and those with weak immune systems will get a yeast infection. But a male with a yeast infection may have no symptoms. This is because the yeast lives inside the urethra of the male and is very hard to detect. Sometimes a man will develop a red, itchy, rash around the tip of the penis. The most effective treatment for a male yeast infection would be a prescription oral medication such as Diflucan.

Yeast infections can be annoying and can even disrupt your life. It is important to treat them promptly. If over the counter treatments aren't working, see your doctor. There may be another reason for your yeast infections.