We moved out to Arizona for the perpetual summer. I cannot stand the cold. It was to start feeling better with the aches and pains I would get in the winter months when we lived back on east coast. We were doing great until I needed knee surgery. We walk every day, and I tore up my knee when I tripped on a walking trail and took a tumble. I was writhing in pain when it happened, and no amount of ice or heat was going to make it feel better. Physical therapy in Glendale AZ after arthroscopic surgery on my knee made me feel good again.
I had the surgery and the doctor told me to give it some time. I waited and did the exercises he told me to do. However, my knee still hurt. The doctor could not get it through his head that my wife and I like to walk a lot with our dog. I guess he thinks old guys just want to sit on the couch at home. I was doing more of that because of the pain. (more…)
Up to 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lives, and it is considered a normal occurrence. But if you have had four or more yeast infections within one year, it is thought to be a recurring yeast infection. While it is not 100% clear what causes these individuals to get recurrent Candida infections, there are a number of risk factors that can aggravate the condition. Hence, it is important to avoid exposing yourself to these risk factors in order to prevent recurrent Candida infections. This article provides important information on what causes recurring yeast infections.
A 2009 report released by the European Journal of Reproductive Biology revealed that a localized immune defect in the vagina may be behind these women’s recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. It can even be transmitted through sexual partners. The important risk factors that aggravate this condition include:
. Pregnancy, estrogen therapy and birth control pills or any other factor that alters a woman’s normal hormone balance.
. Frequent use of antibiotics which destroys the beneficial bacteria that keeps the Candida population under check.
. Conditions such as HIV or any other factor that affects one’s immune system.
. Synthetic and tight-fitting clothing. This helps keep the vaginal area moist and warm, which is conducive to Candida growth.
. Possessing a short distance between the anus and the vagina. Microorganisms can travel easily between these areas during such circumstances.
. Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor when it is not controlled properly. It can cause a spike in sugar in the membrane of the vagina. Sugar creates an ideal growth environment for Candida.
Treating Recurrent Yeast Infections –
This condition is normally treated using a class of anti-fungal medications known as azoles. The medication can be taken over-the-counter or prescribed. In fact, prescription azoles have a higher concentration compared to the OTC medication. Azoles are available in various forms such as vaginal creams, medicated tampons and vaginal suppositories. The therapy session will last from one to seven days depending on the strength of the medication. Monistat, Vagistat, Gynazole and Gyne-Lotrimin are some of the popular brands available in any pharmacy or drugstore. These treatments are quite effective in curing recurrent candida infections.
In conclusion, a Candida infection occurring more than four times a year is called a recurrent infection. This article provides important information on the causes and treatments for such infections.