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Candidiasis, commonly called yeast infection or thrush, is a fungal
infection of any of the Candida species, of which Candida albicans is
the most common.
Candida yeasts are usually present in most people, but uncontrolled
multiplication resulting in disease symptoms is kept in check by other
naturally occurring microorganisms, e.g., bacteria co-existing with the
yeasts in the same locations, and by the human immune system.
In a study of 1009 women in New Zealand, the fungus, Candida albicans,
was isolated from the vaginas of 19% of apparently healthy women.
Carriers experienced few or no symptoms. However, external use of
irritants (such as some detergents or douches) or internal disturbances
(hormonal or physiological) can perturb the normal flora, constituting
lactic acid bacteria, such as lactobacilli, and an overgrowth of yeast
can result in noticeable symptoms. Pregnancy, the use of oral
contraceptives, engaging in vaginal sex immediately and without
cleansing after anal sex, and using lubricants containing glycerin have
been found to be causally related to yeast infections. Diabetes mellitus
and the use of antibiotics are also linked to an increased incidence of
yeast infections. Candidiasis can be sexually transmitted between
partners. Diet has been found to be the cause in some animals. Hormone
Replacement Therapy and infertility treatments may also be predisposing
factors.
Diflucan is an antifungal agent used to treat infections in certain
areas of the body caused by yeast and yeast-like organisms. Diflucan
works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a
constant level. Do this by taking Diflucan at evenly spaced intervals.
Take Diflucan as directed since different conditions require different
methods of use. Diflucan is usually taken once daily. Another dosing
method involves taking the drug for one week per month until treatment
is completed. Continue to take Diflucan until the full prescribed amount
is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping
Diflucan too early may allow the yeast to continue to grow resulting in
a relapse of the infection.. |
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