| Ailments and Self Help Department |
Thrush
About Thrush
Thrush usually takes the form of vaginal or mouth infections, although it can affect the body more widely and seriously on rare occasions. Oral thrush is an infection of yeast fungus, Candida albicans, in the mucous membranes of the mouth. Candida infections occurring in the mouth and throat of adults which are also known as candidosis. Candida is present in the oral cavity of almost half of the population. Everyone who wears dentures will have candida, without necessarily suffering any ill effects. Candida does not become a problem until there is a change in the chemistry of the oral cavity that favours candida over the other micro-organisms that are present. Vaginal Thrush causes itch and a 'cheesy' discharge. The area is often redder and painful too, especially on intercourse and may be associated with frequency of passing water and burning or pain on passing water. It may, therefore be confused with bladder infections (cystitis). Thrush, however, is usually associated with itching, which cystitis is not.
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What Can I Do About Thrush?
Oral Thrush - Once the condition that caused the oral thrush has been treated, the thrush itself can be cured. Treatment is with antifungal medicines, in the form of pastilles that are sucked or oral suspensions that are held in the mouth before swallowing. These allow the antifungal agent to act locally in the mouth. Thrush can make the mouth very sensitive so you should use a very soft toothbrush.
Vaginal Thrush - Vaginal thrush is caused by a fungal infection with candida and is a very common infection for women. Applying an anti-fungal cream (e.g. miconazole cream) to the affected area is likely to be effective, with cure rates of some 80% plus. If taking antibiotics, especially repeated courses, consider taking live yoghurts or preparations containing acidophillus.
Do not wear tight clothes or underwear. If you cannot bear the thought of not wearing any (!) - cotton underwear is the next best thing.
Additional information
Wash and thoroughly dry the genital area at least once a day. Avoid perfumed and coloured soaps, bubble baths and vaginal douches. Some women also use plain lacto-bacilli yogurt to the vaginal area.
To be most effective, nutritional supplements work better in combination. It may be more beneficial to take a variety of Herbs or Nutrients for more rapid and complete healing...
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The following Combinations are those recommended for the treatment of Thrush.
Supplements:
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Vitamins :-
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A, B Complex, Nicotinamide, C (large doses)
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Minerals :-
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Potassium Chloride 6X, Iron Phosphate 6X, Zinc
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Amino Acids :-
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L-Lysine
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Food Supplements :-
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Acidophilus (orally & topically), MCT's Nutritional Yeast
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Herbs :-
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Golden Seal, Garlic, Echinacea
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Notes :-
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(Many of these products are available combined in a specific formula for Thrush. See related items.)
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Related Items:
(You can click on the product images for additional information)
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Caution: Always seek professional help for any serious disease. The products listed may be helpful in addition to Medical Treatment, however they are not intended to replace it. When in doubt seek Medical Advice.
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Lactobacillus acidophilus may assist in the relief of bloating, constipation, flatulence, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramping and irregular stools. It may improve allergies and atopic dermatitis. It may also be beneficial when you've taken antibiotics. As a bonus Lactobacillus acidophilus may help support your Urinary system.
Click on the images for more info.
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