Infectious Disease

Infectious Disease

Viruses, bacteria, mold and other organisms cause infections like flu, chicken pox, pneumonia, sore throat, sinusitis, rashes, malaria and other ills. An infection occurs when these germs attack the body, causing the body to respond with antibodies and white blood cells to defend itself. Eating a healthy diet and getting proper exercise keeps the body strong so it can battle these germs, but the simplest way to stay healthy is to keep clean. Washing hands with soap and water several times a day keeps most germs away, especially when you touch your face, nose, eyes and mouth.
Recently Answered
Q What causes candidiasis?
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Candidiasis is caused by overgrowth of a fungus, usually Candida albicans. This fungus occurs normally in the body and is usually kept in check by beneficial bacteria and a healthy immune system. When immunity is suppressed, either by antibiotics or... Full Answer
Q Why do I crave sugar when I have a yeast infection?
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Dr. Eva Cwynar, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
Candida, an overgrowth of a yeastlike fungus that may thrive in the intestinal tract, mouth, skin, and vagina, causes a craving for sweets because it thrives on carbohydrates. It is kept alive by sugar, so naturally it sends out the message "Feed... Full Answer
Q Why is it difficult to diagnose a candida yeast infection?
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Dr. Eva Cwynar, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
It is sometimes difficult to diagnose a candida yeast infection. While vaginal yeast infections are fairly easy to spot, overgrowth within the gastrointestinal tract is often unrecognized. It doesn't always present itself as bloat or diarrhea.... Full Answer
Q Can candidiasis be prevented?
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Preventing candidiasis means taking care of your general health and cleanliness. Change out of wet swimsuits, clothing, and towels promptly. Wear clothing that allows your skin to breathe and moisture to evaporate. Avoid hot baths and scented products... Full Answer
Q What is the link between mercury and yeast infections?
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Dr. Eva Cwynar, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
Research shows that there is a link between metal toxicity and candida yeast infections, and that 80% of individuals who had candida yeast infections also tested high on mercury levels in their systems. When there is toxic metal overload in the... Full Answer
Q Why is sugar bad if I have a Candida/yeast overgrowth?
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Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, Integrative Medicine
Yeast grow by fermenting sugar ― so your sweet tooth actually feeds them. In patients with Candida/yeast overgrowth, it seems clear that the Candida also triggers sugar craving so that the yeast can get fed. Unlike type 2 sugar addiction where... Full Answer
Q Is candida considered a fungal infection?
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Candida, or yeast infection, is considered a fungal infection and can appear anywhere on the body. It is considered especially common among women. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 75 percent of women will suffer... Full Answer
Q What are the symptoms of a yeast infection in a breastfeeding baby or mom?
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Sometimes a yeast infection can develop on the mother’s breast or in the baby’s mouth. Some yeast infections are noticeable only in the mother, and some are noticeable only in the baby. However, since the breastfeeding mother and the... Full Answer
Q How do I treat my baby's yeast infection?
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Dr. Michael Roizen, Internal Medicine
Infant yeast infection should be treated with a topical antifungal medicine such as nystatin four times a day. There are combination antifungal/steroid creams available, but the risk is that overusing steroid cream on sensitive private parts or the face... Full Answer
Q How can I manage a yeast infection when breastfeeding?
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You can deal with a yeast infection while breastfeeding by taking the following steps: Rinse your nipples with warm, clear water after breastfeeding. A water and vinegar mixture may be even more effective than plain water. Mix 1 tablespoon... Full Answer