Yeast Infections

Yeast infections affect both men and woman of varying ages. In fact, these infections are becoming more and more common. If you know what causes yeast infections, you can then work to prevent them. The following are just some of the causes for yeast infections.

Humid or hot weather is a major cause for yeast infections. Fungi like Candida albicans thrives in warm, moist environments. Thus, if the weather is especially humid, you may not be able to to stop sweating and the groin area, space between skin folds, and other areas of the body may be at risk for yeast infections.

Another cause of yeast infections is a lowered immune system. This could be the result of a cold or could be the result of having an illness like cancer or AIDS. If one’s immune system is low, then the body won’t be able to deal with an overgrowth of the fungi that cause yeast infections.

Being on antibiotics may be another cause of yeast infections. When you’re on antibiotics, bacteria are killed in the hopes of ridding a person of the cold or illness from which they are suffering. However, the antibiotics may kill the “good” kinds of bacteria that can combat Candida albicans. Thus, a yeast infection occurs because the fungus begins to grow out of control.

Poor hygiene is another major cause of yeast infections. If the body is not properly cleansed, then the skin, mouth, vaginal area, and other parts of the body can become dirty, and thus, become prime spots for fungus to grow. A poor diet, one full of sugar and carbohydrates, can increase the chances of yeast infections.

Lastly, another cause of yeast infections is wearing clothing that is too tight or that is wet in some way. If you are a swimmer and you walk around in a wet bathing suit too often, you can develop some chafing or even a yeast infection. Tight clothing makes it hard for air to circulate, and this can allow fungus to grow and create yeast infection.