List of conditions that affect both men and women

It is crucial to know that there’s a possibility of their occurrence irrespective of your biological makeup. MedsNow presents a list of the most common female diseases that could affect men too. 

• Osteoporosis –

This condition marks the weakening of bones, especially in women after their menopause, making them more vulnerable to fractures. While losing bone mass is mostly seen in women, men could be at risk too. Ideally, men lose bone mass at the same rate as women. Doctors recommend undertaking bone density tests since various factors could worsen the condition. Some of them include kidney and thyroid problems, deficiency of vitamin D, excessive use of steroids, some depression medications, etc.

• Yeast infections –

Also known as thrush, yeast infections usually affect the genitals and skin around the genitals for both men and women. Popularly known as Jock itch for men, these infections lead to itchiness, redness and irritation around the penile area. Thrush treatment for men mainly involves a doctor recommended anti-fungal medication that helps overcome the condition within a week. 

• Breast cancer –

While women are more prone to breast cancer due to a higher amount of breast tissue, this deadly disease has been on the rise in men due to certain genetic makeup or conditions like obesity. Men tend to overlook the symptoms leading to further complications and irreparable damage when the diagnosis comes out. 

• Thyroid problems –

The thyroid gland that rests in the middle of the lower neck is responsible for regulating your metabolism. Both excessive production or lowering of hormone production by this gland can result in conditions called Hyper or Hypothyroidism, respectively. Both the health conditions affect both men and women with symptoms like weight gain, muscle weakness, memory loss, etc. 

• Eating disorders –

While both bulimia and anorexia are most commonly diagnosed in women, the rising needs and peer pressures of wanting to look better have led to many men facing them too. And because of the lack of awareness, the diagnosis gets delayed leading to further complications. 

• Bladder infections –

UTIs occur in older men and women, both of whom are at risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. The condition restricts your bladder from emptying fully, further leading to bacterial growth and infections. Additionally, men facing kidney stones or the abnormal narrowing of their urethra also face high risks of bladder infections. 

• Male Menopause –

Menopause marks a significant phase in a women’s life. The ceasing of menstruation due to hormonal changes brings about a host of discomforting menopause symptoms like hot flashes, hair loss, insomnia, etc. But did you know that male menopause, known as Andropause, also exists? The condition occurs because, with age, the production of testosterone in men reduces. 

• Lupus –

There is a major lack of awareness about Lupus in men. Most people are misinformed that the condition only occurs in women leading to underdiagnosis in men. Some of the common symptoms in both men and women include joint pain, swelling, chest pains, dry eyes, fatigue and rashes. 

• Autoimmune diseases –

Like women, men with a genetic history of autoimmune diseases face a higher risk of contracting conditions like type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, Lupus, etc. The symptoms mostly get ignored because they are different for men and women, but there is no gender bias in these conditions. 

As you must have seen so far, there are a lot of female medical problems that, irrespective of gender, age or risk factors, can occur in men (or people with male genital organs) too. Healthcare professionals recommend scheduling regular check-ups and noticing abnormal signs and symptoms to avoid further complications. Remember, nothing is embarrassing enough if it can save your life. 

The post Which Women’s Health Conditions Affect Men? appeared first on Medika Life.

Most women will get a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their life. This common and frustrating issue is a common complaint in an Obgyn office. Many women want to know why yeast happens and how to fix it fast.

Yeast infections are easy to treat. Over-the-counter treatments are safe to use, but it is essential to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis if the infection is not going away. Many assume abnormal vaginal symptoms are due to yeast, but yeast infection symptoms are similar to other vaginal infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Self-diagnosing often leads to errors, but the situation “down there” will not improve if we are not treating the right thing.

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection, typically by candida, causing itching and burning of the vulva, the area around the vagina.

The vagina always contains small amounts of yeast. We have yeast on our skin, our mouth, and our gastrointestinal tract all the time. Our bodies keep yeast in check with healthy bacteria.

The vagina is an ecosystem maintained by a variety of yeast and bacteria living in perfect harmony. Periodically, something disruptive happens to break the status quo allowing yeast to flourish. When yeast outgrows the counterbalancing bacteria, women will notice a yeast infection.

Antibiotic use is a perfect example. When we take antibiotics to kill a bacterial infection, the medication also destroys the protective vaginal bacteria- balancing yeast. As a result, almost 50% of women end up with a yeast infection.

What causes yeast infections?

An overgrowth of the microscopic fungus Candida causes yeast infections. Candida albicans is the most common culprit accounting for 75% of the cases. Candida glabrata and candida tropicales are two other types of yeast causing candida species.

Who gets vaginal yeast infections?

Any woman can develop a yeast infection. In fact, three out of four women will have a yeast infection at some point in their life, and almost half of women have two or more infections.

Some medical conditions increase the risk of yeast infections. The risk is higher if:

• You are pregnant
• You have diabetes. Yeast loves glucose and will flourish in this environment.
• You use a type of hormonal birth control that has higher doses of estrogen.
• You douche. Douching disrupts the vaginal ecosystem by altering the vaginal acidity allowing yeast to grow.
• You recently took antibiotics
• You have a weakened immune system, such as from HIV or taking steroid medication

What are the symptoms of vaginal yeast infections?

Vaginal and vulvar itching is the most common symptom followed by an abnormal, thick, white cottage-cheese vaginal discharge. Some women notice pain during sex or painful urination. Others notice vulvar burning, irritation, or swelling.

Everyone’s experience will vary. Symptoms may be severe for some and barely noticeable for others.

Can I get a yeast infection from having sex?

The relationship between sex and yeast is tricky. A yeast infection is not considered an STI, but sexual intercourse alters the vaginal chemistry by changing the pH balance. The vagina regulates its ecosystem by maintaining a normal pH level. A vaginal pH between 3.5–5.5 suppresses yeast and anaerobic bacteria.

Sex temporarily disrupts the balance. Vaginal secretions and semen change the chemistry, and in some cases, allow abnormal amounts of yeast or bacteria to flourish. The good news is vaginas, in most cases, effectively reestablish normal pH to keep itself healthy.

In rare cases, some women get yeast infections from a sexual partner or improperly-washed sex toys. The cases are not common. In my experience, most cases of sex-induced yeast are misdiagnosed and warrant a second opinion.

Because yeast infections are not STIs, sexual partners do not need to be treated.

Should I call my doctor if I have a yeast infection?

It is acceptable to self-medicate with an over-the-counter antifungal medication if you feel certain a yeast infection is present. If the infection is recurrent or not going away, then it is time to call a doctor.

Seeing your doctor or practitioner is the only way to find out for sure if you have a yeast infection and not a more serious problem.

The signs and symptoms of a yeast infection are a lot like symptoms of other more serious infections. Trichomoniasis is an STI that also causes itching, and bacterial vaginosis (BV) often causes vaginal discharge.

If left untreated, STIs and BV raise your risk of getting other STIs, including HIV. Untreated gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to problems getting pregnant. BV can also lead to problems during pregnancy, such as preterm labor and premature delivery.

How is a yeast infection diagnosed?

A doctor will do a pelvic exam to look for swelling and characteristic discharge. The doctor may also use a cotton swab to take a sample of the discharge from the vagina, and then look at the sample under a microscope to evaluate for fungus.

Nucleic acid amplification microbial testing is a widely available rapid test technology to help distinguish between yeast, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis. Yeast cultures are sometimes performed to determine the candida species to help guide treatment in recurrent cases.

How is a yeast infection treated?

Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medicine.

Antifungal medications can be purchased at any pharmacy without a prescription. Antifungal medicines come in the form of creams, tablets, ointments, or suppositories to be inserted into the vagina. Treatments vary from single-dose therapy to daily use for up to seven days.

A doctor or practitioner can also prescribe a single dose of oral antifungal medicine such as fluconazole.

Patients suffering from recurrent vaginal yeast infections may qualify for more robust testing and treatment.

Are over-the-counter yeast medications safe?

In general, self-treatment for suspected yeast is safe. If the diagnosis is uncertain or not improving, it is best to talk with a provider to confirm we are treating the correct problem.

It may sound silly, but if we are not treating the right problem then it will not get better. Studies show that two out of three women who buy yeast infection medicine don’t really have a yeast infection.

If a yeast infection is not going away then some other infection may be causing the problem.

How do I treat a yeast infection if pregnant?

During pregnancy, it is safe to treat a yeast infection with vaginal creams or suppositories that contain Terconazole, Miconazole, or Clotrimazole.

Obgyns typically avoid the oral fluconazole tablet to treat a yeast infection during pregnancy. Some studies show high-dose first-trimester use may cause birth defects. This medication may be indicated in certain clinical situations.

How can I prevent a yeast infection?

These steps may lower the risk of getting yeast infections:

• Do not douche.
• Do not use scented feminine products
• Change tampons, pads, and panty liners often.
• Avoid tight underwear or restrictive clothing that increases body heat, sweat, and genital moisture.
• Change out of wet swimsuits and workout clothes when finished.
• Wipe from front to back when using the bathroom.
• Avoid hot tubs and very hot baths.
• Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. ,

What should I do if I get repeat yeast infections?

If you get four or more yeast infections in a year, talk to your doctor or nurse.

About 5% of women get four or more vaginal yeast infections in one year. This is called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). RVVC is more common in women with diabetes or weak immune systems, such as with HIV, but it can also happen in otherwise healthy women.

Doctors most often treat RVVC with antifungal medicine for up to six months.

The post Vaginal Yeast Infections: Why Women Get Them and What to Do About It appeared first on Medika Life.

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection causing itching and burning of the vulva, the area around the vagina. Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. 

The vagina is an ecosystem maintained by a variety of yeast and bacteria living perfect harmony. Periodically, something happens which disrupts the status quo allowing yeast to flourish. When yeast outgrows the counterbalancing bacteria women will notice a yeast infection. 

Antibiotic use is a perfect example. When we take antibiotics to kill a bacterial infection, the medication also destroys the protective vaginal bacteria balancing yeast. As a result, almost 50% of women end up with a yeast infection.

Who gets vaginal yeast infections?

Women of all ages can get vaginal yeast infections. Three out of four women will have a yeast infection at some point in their life. Almost half of women have two or more infections.

Vaginal yeast infections are rare before puberty and less likely after menopause.

Are some women more at risk for yeast infections?

Yes. Your risk for yeast infections is higher if:

• You are pregnant
• You have diabetes and your blood sugar is not under control
• You use a type of hormonal birth control that has higher doses of estrogen
• You douche or use vaginal sprays
• You recently took antibiotics such as amoxicillin or steroid medicines
• You have a weakened immune system, such as from HIV

What are the symptoms of vaginal yeast infections?

The most common symptom of a vaginal yeast infection is extreme itchiness in and around the vulva and vagina.

Other signs and symptoms include:

• Burning, redness, and swelling of the vagina and the vulva
• Pain when urinating
• Pain during sex
• Soreness
• A thick, white vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese and does not have a bad smell

You may have only a few of these symptoms. They may be mild or severe.

What causes yeast infections?

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the microscopic fungus Candida. Candida albicans is the most common culprit, but other types of candida can cause infections as well.

Your vagina may have small amounts of yeast at any given time without causing any symptoms. But when too much yeast grows, you can get an infection.

Can I get a yeast infection from having sex?

Yes and no. A yeast infection is not considered an STI. Sexual intercourse alters the vaginal chemistry by changing the pH balance. The vagina regulates its ecosystem by maintaining a normal pH level. Sex temporarily changes the chemistry and in some cases allows abnormal amounts of yeast or bacteria to flourish. The good news is vaginas are very effective and reestablishing normal pH to keep itself healthy.

Only in rare cases can you can get a yeast infection from your sexual partner. Condoms and dental dams may help prevent getting or passing yeast infections through vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

Should I call my doctor or nurse if I think I have a yeast infection?

It is acceptable to self-medicate with an over-the-counter antifungal medication if you feel certain you have a yeast infection. If the infection is recurrent or not going away, then it is time to call a doctor. Seeing your doctor or nurse is the only way to know for sure if you have a yeast infection and not a more serious type of infection.

The signs and symptoms of a yeast infection are a lot like symptoms of other more serious infections, such as STIs and bacterial vaginosis (BV). If left untreated, STIs and BV raise your risk of getting other STIs, including HIV, and can lead to problems getting pregnant. BV can also lead to problems during pregnancy, such as premature delivery.

How is a yeast infection diagnosed?

Your doctor will do a pelvic exam to look for swelling and discharge. Your doctor may also use a cotton swab to take a sample of the discharge from your vagina. A lab technician will look at the sample under a microscope to see whether there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida that causes a yeast infection.

How is a yeast infection treated?

Yeast infections are usually treated with antifungal medicine.

You can then buy antifungal medicine for yeast infections at a store, without a prescription. Antifungal medicines come in the form of creams, tablets, ointments, or suppositories that you insert into your vagina. You can apply treatment in one dose or daily for up to seven days, depending on the brand you choose.

Your doctor or nurse can also give you a single dose of antifungal medicine taken by mouth, such as fluconazole. For those with recurrent vaginal yeast infections may qualify for more robust testing.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter medicines for yeast infections?

Yes, but always talk with your doctor or nurse before treating yourself for a vaginal yeast infection. This is because:

• You may be trying to treat an infection that is not a yeast infection. Studies show that two out of three women who buy yeast infection medicine don’t really have a yeast infection. Instead, they may have an STI or bacterial vaginosis (BV). STIs and BV require different treatments than yeast infections and, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems.
• Using treatment when you do not actually have a yeast infection can cause your body to become resistant to the yeast infection medicine. This can make actual yeast infections harder to treat in the future.
• Some yeast infection medicine may weaken condoms and diaphragms, increasing your chance of getting pregnant or an STI when you have sex. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what is best for you, and always read and follow the directions on the medicine carefully.

How do I treat a yeast infection if I’m pregnant?

During pregnancy, it’s safe to treat a yeast infection with vaginal creams or suppositories that contain Miconazole or Clotrimazole.

Do not take the oral fluconazole tablet to treat a yeast infection during pregnancy. It may cause birth defects.

Can I get a yeast infection from breastfeeding?

Yes. Yeast infections can happen on your nipples or in your breast (commonly called “thrush”) from breastfeeding. Yeast thrive on milk and moisture. A yeast infection you get while breastfeeding is different from a vaginal yeast infection. However, it is caused by an overgrowth of the same fungus.

Symptoms of thrush during breastfeeding include:

• Sore nipples that last more than a few days, especially after several weeks of pain-free breastfeeding
• Flaky, shiny, itchy, or cracked nipples
• Deep pink and blistered nipples
• Achy breast
• Shooting pain in the breast during or after feedings

If you have any of these signs or symptoms or think your baby might have thrush in his or her mouth, call your doctor.

If I have a yeast infection, does my sexual partner need to be treated?

Yeast infections are not STIs. In rare cases, it is possible to pass yeast infections to your partner during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

How can I prevent a yeast infection?

You can take steps to lower your risk of getting yeast infections:

• Do not douche. Douching removes some of the normal bacteria in the vagina that protects you from infection.
• Do not use scented feminine products, including bubble bath, sprays, pads, and tampons.
• Change tampons, pads, and panty liners often.
• Do not wear tight underwear, pantyhose, pants, or jeans. These can increase body heat and moisture in your genital area.
• Wear underwear with a cotton crotch. Cotton underwear helps keep you dry and doesn’t hold in warmth and moisture.
• Change out of wet swimsuits and workout clothes as soon as you can.
• Always wipe from front to back when using the bathroom.
• Avoid hot tubs and very hot baths.
• If you have diabetes, be sure your blood sugar is under control.

Does yogurt prevent or treat yeast infections?

Maybe. Studies suggest that eating eight ounces of yogurt with “live cultures” daily or taking lactobacillus acidophilus capsules may help prevent infection in some cases.

But, more research still needs to be done to say for sure if yogurt with Lactobacillus or other probiotics can prevent or treat vaginal yeast infections.

What should I do if I get repeat yeast infections?

If you get four or more yeast infections in a year, talk to your doctor or nurse.

About 5% of women get four or more vaginal yeast infections in one year. This is called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). RVVC is more common in women with diabetes or weak immune systems, such as with HIV, but it can also happen in otherwise healthy women.

Doctors most often treat RVVC with antifungal medicine for up to six months.

The post Vaginal Yeast Infections appeared first on Medika Life.