Yeast infections are caused by an overproduction of yeast in your system, which often happens when you take antibiotics. Some people are more prone to developing yeast problems when taking this medication. Yeast can cause symptoms in various areas of the body, such as the neck, vagina, rectum and even the tongue and lips. It can cause itching, burning, discharge (in the case of vaginal yeast) and physical manifestations that can resemble rashes. There are several different ways that you can fight yeast infections due to antibiotics.
Yogurt
The best (and most simple) way to get rid of a yeast infection that is caused by antibiotics is to eat yogurt---at least one cup a day while you are taking the antibiotics. This is the best long-term solution. Yogurt is full of lactobacillus acidophilus, a substance that counteracts yeast production. Sometimes the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can be reduced by applying yogurt directly to the problem area. (See References for more information on this method.)
Acidophilus Pills
You can find acidophilus pills in your local drugstore or vitamin shop. These act in the same way yogurt does to reduce yeast caused by antibiotics. Your doctor will most likely recommend that you take these pills while on the antibiotic treatment if you don't like yogurt. Sometimes the pills can be taken in the same way that suppositories are used to fight yeast infections. However, while acidophilus is considered to be fairly harmless, you should always consult your doctor before using any health product in a way that differs from what the instructions say.
Creams
There are over-the-counter anti-fungal creams, ointments and gels that allow you to fight a yeast infection through direct contact with the skin. These include tioconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole and butoconazole creams (all generic names for brand name products). All of these products need to be applied to the skin during treatment---not internally. Some of these creams work in as soon as 3 days after treatment, while others could take up to 7 days. They are best used if you only have to take the antibiotics for a short period of time.
Suppositories
Another way to fight vaginal yeast infections is with over-the-counter anti-fungal suppositories. These are compact oval tablets that are inserted into the vagina to rid it of bad bacteria and yeast. Many suppositories are natural or homeopathic. Again, this is a temporary solution while on the antibiotics. You should insert these each day that you are on the treatment.
Reduce Yeast Intake
Since yeast infections are caused by too much yeast thriving in the body, you should stop eating and drinking foods that are high in yeast content while on the antibiotics. This includes beer and other types of alcohol, breads, mushrooms and cheese.
Consult your doctor to see if there is an antibiotic medication that you can switch to that will work better with your system to reduce yeast infections.
Tags: yeast infections, fight yeast, vaginal yeast, yeast infection, antibiotics This