A yeast infection is a very annoying thing to have to deal with and causes a lot of discomfort. Symptoms like itching, burning and irritation worsen the longer the infection is untreated and all you want is relief. But just treating the symptoms is not going to solve the problem, you need to identify and deal with the root cause of the infection. By knowing these triggers you can take steps to prevent a yeast infection from happening again.

As well as the itching that gradually gets worse, and the burning mentioned women also face symptoms that include pain, redness and swelling. All of this is due to a fungus called Candida Albicans overgrowing. It lives on all of us in controlled small numbers by excellent bacteria and does us no harm. But there are triggers that lead to a lack of balance which the fungus takes advantage of and rapidly multiplies. This leads to the yeast infection.

The ideal place for the yeast to breed in is damp and warm areas of the body, making the vagina a particularly favorite spot for them. One thing you can do to help avoid a yeast infection is to look at your clothing. Tight clothes keep an area warm and damp as no air can circulate. Cotton panties are best as they allow the skin to breathe. Also when in wet clothing, such as a bathing suit or workout clothes, dry and change as soon as you can.

There are also foods that can help prevent an infection and foods to avoid as they promote an infection. Avoid sugar most importantly as it is a primary food source for the fungus and helps it grow. Also avoid processed and refined foods like white flour. Probiotic plain yogurt is a fantastic food to eat more of as it contains the excellent bacteria your body needs to fight the fungus. Check the mark and make sure the yogurt has Lactobacillus Acidophil in it.

Antibiotics are a huge causing factor particularly when being taken over an extended period of time. Some antibiotics kill all bacteria as they enter the body, excellent and terrible, because they can\’t tell the difference between them. Also work on your stress levels, rest well, and get enough exercise, all of which help keep your immune system strong.

When using contraception remember that there are spermicides like Nonoxinol that can cause infection. Some condoms have spermicidal lubricant so read the marks. Also birth control pills can trigger a yeast infection as they upset the natural balance of the body\’s hormones.

For more info on how to deal with candida, check out our yeast infection home remedy website, where you can find plenty of information on the subject. Today\’s special: recurring yeast infections