Suffering From a Yeast Infection: How to Fight Back

Yeast infections are a common ailment, affecting the sexual wellness and wellbeing of millions of women every year. They tend to recur as well, and can make having a normal sex life quite difficult and uncomfortable.

 

One of the reasons that yeast infections are so common is that most of us take antibiotics at some point in our lives (and most of us at several points in our lives). Antibiotics are designed to kill off the bad bacteria that is causing an infection in our bodies, but unfortunately, in so doing, they also kill off the good bacteria in the gut and the good bacteria in the vagina. You might find that if you are on a course of antibiotics, a bout of thrush soon follows. It’s always a good idea to see your doctor, though, as self-diagnosed yeast infections can turn out to be other things.

 

There are some very simple steps that you can take to help you steer clear of a yeast infection. Don’t use feminine hygiene sprays and don’t wash your vaginal area with any kind of perfumed soaps. Steer clear of perfumed sanitary pads, tampons and bubble bath too, as these seem to negatively affect the balance of acid in the vagina, leading to a thrush infection.

 

Wear cotton pants and avoid tight-fitting clothing too, as well as remembering to wipe from front to back, and you will also significantly reduce the number of yeast infections that you suffer from. Yeast thrives in warm, wet environments, so make sure you stay cool and dry ‘down below’.

 

If you are on the birth control pill, you could also find yourself more susceptible to thrush. Researchers have now found that certain types of birth control may cause a susceptibility to thrush as well.

Categories: Birth Control, infection, Infections, nbsp, steer clear, thrush, vagina, yeast, yeast infection, Yeast Infections

What Everyone Ought to Know About Syphilis

Around 55,000 people contract syphilis every year, a sexual infection which affects the wellness and wellbeing of people through unprotected sex. According to the Centers for Disease Control, most people (around 79 per cent) who suffer from the disease are men who have had sex with other men, although anyone – male or female – can contract syphilis if they have unprotected sex.

 

What most people don’t realise is that syphilis can be transmitted through all the different types of intercourse, such as vaginal, oral and anal.

 

In the first stage of infection, people who have contracted syphilis may have sores on the area that has come into contact with the infection.

 

This bacterial STI is usually characterised by the presence of a sore on the part of their body which came into contact with the infection. This means that you can get a syphilis sore on your genital area, rectal area or in and around your mouth. When this sore appears, it usually indicates that the syphilis infection is in the first stage, and that the contact with the disease has occurred a few weeks ago.

 

Many people who have the sore still do not realise that they have contracted syphilis. This is because it is often hidden away in an area of the genital or the rectum, and it is also usually painless. During this time frame, this is when syphilis is the most contagious, and this is why it is so easily spread as the affected person will often have sexual contact with another without realising that they are infectious.

 

When syphilis is in the second stage, it usually causes more alarm as it shows up as a rash which spreads over the entire body. This rash may or may not be itchy, and it can include the development of sores in the mouth or on the genitals that appear to be a bit like warts.

Categories: area, contract syphilis, contracted syphilis, genitals, infection, nbsp, people, Syphilis, unprotected sex, warts

Yeast Infections: How To Cure Them With Home Remedies

The symptoms of vaginitis affect most women at some point in their lives – the itching, burning pain, and discharge that comes with a yeast infection are uncomfortable and undesirable no matter what age you are unfortunate enough to develop this infection. Yeast infections are caused by organisms which inhabit the vagina – one of the most common causes is the fungus Candida albicans. Yeast infections can be successfully treated at home, but it’s still advisable what you speak to your GP to ensure that it is actually a yeast infection. There are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing your symptoms, so you should check before taking any medication or trying any remedies. But, if you’ve checked with your GP, or have had a yeast infection in the past and are sure that you’ve developed it again, these remedies may be useful to you. The first rule of thumb is to ensure that you keep the genital area dry and loose so that air can circulate. Yeast organisms like warm, moist conditions so by wearing fabrics that don’t breathe, you’re giving them the perfect environment to thrive. You should dry the vaginal area well after showering or bathing, then opt for a breathable fabric such as cotton underwear and loose trousers or a skirt to let the area breathe.

Practicing good hygiene is also important as yeast infections produce secretions when they are irritated. Yeast can also be passed on through sexual activity and through things like shared baths, so avoid bathing together or sharing towels. Try to wash your clothing in hot water too, to destroy the yeast organisms on your clothes. You can also add a cup of vinegar to the cycle to kill the yeast. Not only can alcohol and chemicals in certain body washes cause irritation, but they can also pH balance to the vagina, which gives the yeast chance to flourish. Routine douching isn’t wise if you don’t have vaginal symptoms, but it can help to balance the pH balance if you have a yeast infection. Live yoghurt can cool your symptoms and restore the friendly microorganisms in the vaginal area. Eating yoghurt can help, but you can also insert one to two tablespoons into the vagina and externally to the areas that are affected. As an alternative, you can also use a lactobacillus tablet vaginally once a day and douching with vinegar twice a day for two days.

 

Studies have also shown that boric acid is a safe way to treat yeast infections. If your doctor agrees that it is a good idea, you could try using a boric acid capsule as a suppository if you experience a flare-up of symptoms. However, if you’re pregnant then you should skip this. The most common treatment is an over-the-counter fungal cream which removes the yeast infection quickly and effectively. Both miconazole and clotrimazole are effective in treating this problem and are readily available in pharmacies and many supermarkets. Follow the instructions on the packet, and complete the full course of medication even if your symptoms seem to have disappeared as the infection may still be present. If you regularly get yeast infections around the time of your period, you may find it useful to use an antifungal cream a few days before and after your period, as a preventative. Lastly, cranberry juice can be useful as the acidity in the juice can kill any bacteria in your urethra and create an inhospitable environment for the bacteria.

Categories: Bacteria, boric acid, infection, Infections, ph balance, vaginal area, women's health, yeast, yeast infection, Yeast Infections, yeast organisms

Urinary Tract Infections: Your Questions Answered

Most people will contract a urinary tract infection at some point in their lives, but what can you do to spot the signs and prevent them? Here are some of the answers to the most common questions regards UTIs.

How do you get a urinary tract infection?

An infection in the urinary tract is most commonly caused by bacteria in the digestive tract which is spread to the urethra, which then travels up the urinary tract to the bladder and sometimes the kidneys. It can also be caused by bacteria and microorganisms which are transmitted through sexual intercourse.

Does having a urine infection mean you can’t get another one again?

This isn’t true; in fact, once you get one, you’re more susceptible to them later on. Nearly 20 per cent of women who get a urinary tract infection get another one later in life, and 30 per cent of those who have had two will get a third. Around 80 per cent of those who’ve had three will have a fourth, and four out of five women get another infections within 18 months of the last one.

How can you tell if you have an infection?

There are a number of symptoms to urinary tract infections, including frequent and urgent needs to urinate, but not making it to the toilet in time; a painful burning sensation when you urinate; cloudy or reddish-coloured urine; urine that has a strong smell, and soreness in the lower back or side. If you have a fever, nausea, vomiting or back pain accompanying your symptoms, you may well have a kidney infection. You should speak to your GP if you have symptoms as they can prescribe medication to clear the infection.

If the infection seems to have cleared, do I need to finish my medication?

Yes, you always need to finish the course of medication you’ve been prescribed. Sometimes the symptoms seem to have disappeared, but the bacteria will still be in your system so you need to finish the antibiotics to clear in. Even if the symptoms don’t appear straight away, you will be at an increased risk of another infection very quickly.

Are urinary tract infections harmful to pregnant women?

If the infection is caught and treated early, then it isn’t generally of any harm. However, pregnant women are more likely to find that the infection spreads to their kidneys which can cause kidney damage, high blood pressure and an increased risk of premature delivery. If you suspect you have an infection and you’re pregnant, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible.

Is drinking cranberry juice a good way to prevent an infection or is that an old wives’ tale?

Cranberry juice and vitamin C make your urine more acidic, which makes it more difficult for bacteria to thrive. Cranberry juice also have a unique factor which prevents bacteria from adhering to the bladder surface, so it can be useful in preventing the infection from growing.

Why do some people get regular infections?

Some women are more prone to infections than others because the cells in the vaginal areas make it easier for bacteria to invade. If you’re menopausal, you’re also at an increased risk because of the thinning tissues covering the urethra make this area less resistant to bacteria. Irritation from sex, tampons, douching or feminine deodorants can also give bacteria a chance to grow. Practicing good feminine hygiene can help limit the bacteria from spreading, along with drinking plenty of water and urinating when you need to rather than waiting.

Categories: Bacteria, cranberry juice, increased risk, infection, Pregnant Women, question, Symptoms, tract, Tract Infection, tract infections, urinary tract, urine infection

Natural Ways to Help You Beat Your Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are unpleasant and uncomfortable, but are actually one of the most common sexual health problems affecting women. They affect your wellness and wellbeing through itching, discomfort and the release of a thick, white discharge.

 

All of these uncomfortable symptoms are caused by a fungal infection called Candida, which is the biological name for thrush. Candida flourishes in warm, moist areas and this means that unfortunately the vagina is the perfect environment for it. Normally, other microorganisms in the body help to keep Candida in check, but when there is an imbalance, then this is when a yeast infection occurs.

 

There are many herbal remedies that can help to relieve the symptoms of thrush, and some simple things that you can do, too (such as cutting down on fruit) in order to help make you more comfortable and reduce the chances of it recurring.

 

Yeast thrives on sugars, so depriving your body of sugar whilst suffering from an attack of thrush can help to reduce it. Cut down on fruit and instead eat plenty of vegetables, which boost your immunity through their nutrients. Echinacea can also help to improve your immune system.

 

Many herbs can also be used to help fight against yeast – things like Calendula, goldenseal, cedar, myrrh and rosemary all have antifungal properties. If you make up strong infusions of these herbs, you can use them either internally on the vagina or externally to help soothe the burning and itching caused by thrush.

 

Garlic is also great at fighting against yeast and fungus, and is particularly good at fighting against Candida and stopping it from growing. If you can tolerate it, try to chew or swallow at least one clove of raw garlic every day. You can mince it if you prefer and sprinkle it over a salad.

Categories: candida, infection, Natural, nbsp, thrush, yeast, yeast infection

The Anti-Aging Treatments That Could Kill You

Could your desire for the latest anti-aging product and the newest treatments actually be putting you in danger? A new study has shown that people prioritise their wellness and wellbeing behind their desire to look good on many occasions.

 

A trip to a spa or salon should, of course, be about a bit of pampering, and helping you to relax and feel beautiful, but there are times when simple beauty treatments can go horribly wrong, leading to infections, scarring and sometimes even death.

 

Most procedures are perfectly safe, especially when carried out by a qualified doctor or technician, but that doesn’t mean that you are every truly free from risk.

 

Take a simple manicure or pedicure, for example – no harm there, right? Wrong. In a place where feet are soaked and calluses are buffed, it’s possible to pick up both bacterial and fungal infections, including MRSA, which is an antibiotic resistant type of bacteria. This was the case with 46-year-old Kimberley Kay Jackson who went to get a pedicure and suffered a small cut to the heel from a pumice stone. An infection occurred and the woman died of an infection. Check out the cleanliness of a salon and make sure that you are comfortable with the salon’s hygiene procedures. If you spot any signs of infection later, visit your doctor straight away.

 

A Brazilian Blowout is a hair straightening product line, but a recent warning by the FDA has revealed that these products contain dangerously high levels of formaldehyde, which can cause cancer. Users of these products have reported problems including nosebleeds. Chest pain, vomiting, rashes and dizziness.

 

Botox is another risky one – there are serious side effects to the drug such as slurred speech, muscle weakness and difficulty swallowing, and they are rare but can lead to death if left untreated.

 

Categories: anti aging, beauty, Death, infection, Infections, nbsp, salon, treatment, Treatments

How to Spot The Warning Signs of Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are kind of – to use a technical term – an icky part of sexual health, but one that’s easily taken care of. However, it’s far better to protect your wellbeing against yeast infections through a few simple steps. Let’s take a look at how you can stop yeast infections and, if that doesn’t work, spot the signs that your wellness has been affected.

 

Also known as candidiasis, a yeast infection is caused by a fungus called candida albicans. It usually occurs in warm, moist parts of your body, like your mouth and moist areas of your skin. When you have a vaginal yeast infection, it is known as vulvovaginal candidiasis. There are several reasons as to why candida can overgrow; stress, pregnancy, and illnesses that affect the immune system may allow yeast to multiply, as can certain medicines including birth control pills and steroids. If you take antibiotics for other conditions, the medicine might kill the good bacteria responsible for keeping the growth of candida in the vagina in check. You may also be at a greater risk of yeast infection if your blood sugar level is high, as occurs in people with poorly-controlled diabetes.

 

If you do have a yeast infection, it will probably be the most obvious right before your period, as the menstrual cycle causes hormonal changes. Tight clothing and underwear, or clothes made of materials like nylon that trap heat and moisture, might make it more likely for you to have a yeast infection, as this is the kind of environment that yeast thrives in. This is also the case for scented sanitary products and douching, so avoid these if you think they’re giving you a yeast infection. Although yeast infections may spread from one sexual partner to the other, it’s a rarity and, as such, is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI). However, if your partner does show symptoms, he or she may have to be treated.

 

The common signs and symptoms of yeast infections include:

• Itching and irritation in your vagina


• Redness, swelling, or itching in your vulva (which are the folds of skin outside your vagina)


• A thick, white discharge. This is usually odourless, but may smell like bread or yeast.


• Pain or burning when urinating or during sex

 

If any of these symptoms are affecting you, you should speak to your doctor. Some of these symptoms are similar to those you might find with an STI, but your doctor can give you the right diagnosis so that you can be treated appropriately. The test may involve your doctor taking a urine sample — to rule out a urinary tract infection — and swab some discharge from your vagina to examine under a microscope. Treatment for vaginal yeast infections usually involve a pill to swallow, or a cream, tablet or suppository to put in your vagina. Make sure that you abstain from sex until the infection has cleared up, as the medications for vaginal yeast infections can weaken condoms and diaphragms.

 

However, why let it get to that stage when you can prevent a yeast infection?

 

1. Dress right: What you wear can enable yeast infections to grow, so avoid wet bathing suits, tight jeans, and stretchy exercise gear. Nylon underwear, pantyhose, and other synthetic materials that trap moisture also make yeast infections more likely.

 

2. Watch out for beauty products: There are some dyes and perfumes in soaps, bath gels, lotions, sanitary products, and laundry detergents that some women react to, and this irritation can cause yeast infections to grow. Steer clear of perfumed products and to use mild and fragrance-free products when possible

Categories: infection, Infections, nbsp, prevention, sanitary products, Symptoms, vagina, vaginal yeast, yeast, yeast infection, Yeast Infections

Women at Risk of Vaginal Infection Due to Petroleum Jelly

A new study led by Joelle Brown at the University of California, San Francisco suggests that women who use petroleum jelly vaginally might be at the risk of a common infection called bacterial vaginosis.

 

Earlier research on the topic has certainly linked douching to harmful effects such as sexually transmitted diseases (STD), pelvic inflammatory diseases as well as bacterial vaginosis. However, according to Brown, very less research has been carried out on other products used by women vaginally.

 

After studying 141 Los Angeles women, the research derived that half of them had used some varied products vaginally in the past one month including petroleum jelly, baby oil and other sexual lubricants. Around 45 percent of them reported douching.

 

While testing the women for any infections, the study showed that women who used petroleum jelly in the past month were at a greater risk of bacterial vaginosis compared to the non-users.

 

What causes bacterial vaginosis? What are the symptoms?

The infection occurs due to a disruption or an imbalance caused between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the vagina. Itching, burning sensation, discharge or pain can be a few symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. However most of the women suffering from this infection may not get any symptoms mentioned. The infection generally doesn’t cause long term problems.

 

Nevertheless, bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of contracting various STD’s including HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This can also lead to infertility in women due to a pelvic inflammatory disease.

 

Dr. Sten Vermund, director of the Institute for Global Health at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tenn supports the research too. According to him, it’s the alkaline properties in the petroleum jelly that increases the growth of bad bacteria in the vagina. He said, “An acidic vaginal environment is what protects women from colonization from abnormal organisms”.

 

As per Vermund, many studies have linked douching to a higher risk of vaginal infections as the practice disturbs the natural vaginal ecology. Experts believe that women don’t need to use products in order to clean the vagina. The area predominantly holds ‘good’ bacteria which produces hydrogen peroxide that works as a natural cleansing agent. However women continue to douche using various products available in the market.

 

These products might contain antiseptics and fragrances that can cause ill effects. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 40 percent of women aged 18 to 44 douche regularly. On this Vermund commented, “The frequency with which American women use unnecessary and harmful intra-vaginal products is unfortunate”.

 

What study suggests?

The research was conducted on a group of racially diverse women who were ready to test themselves for sexually transmitted diseases. The team found out that more than 25 percent of women were tested positive for HIV. Around 21 percent had bacterial vaginosis and 6 percent were suffering from yeast infection. As mentioned earlier, women who’d used petroleum jelly in the past month were 2.2 times more likely to be having bacterial vaginosis, keeping in mind the other factors such as age, race and douching habits.

 

It was found that the women were using the product not because they saw any symptoms. In fact, the ones affected did not show any sign or report vaginal symptoms. And the ones with symptoms said that they didn’t use petroleum jelly as a cure.

 

In contrast to Brown’s study, douching was not linked to bacterial vaginosis risk. This can be because of conducting the test on a small number of women as per Brown. Another fact she mentioned is that women use various other stuff to clean the insides that may comprise different chemicals and concentrations.

 

Likewise, sexual lubricants were not linked to bacterial vaginosis and as per Vermund, this research assures comfort to women who use sexual lubricants. However, Brown believes that more research and findings should be conducted on a larger basis in order to find out the effects of various products used by women vaginally.

 

As of now, Brown suggests that women should understand and know all the details of a product before using it. “Women should talk with their health care providers and ask them if the products they are using inside their vagina are known to be safe for use in the vagina,” Brown said.

Categories: bacterial vaginosis, infection, jelly, linked douching, pelvic inflammatory, petroleum, petroleum jelly, sexual lubricants, sexually transmitted, transmitted diseases, vagina

Six STIs that Gay Men Need to Get Screened For Regularly

Although sexual health and wellness awareness campaigns are more prolific than ever, there are still more gay men living with HIV than there has ever been. Having unprotected penetrative sex is the easiest way to pass on a sexually transmitted infection (STI), especially considering how many gay men are contract STIs at some point in their lives. All it takes is using a condom to significantly reduce your risk of STIs, and which is still important even if you already have HIV. Aside from not passing the disease onto your partners, you need to prevent other STIs as these are more difficult to treat if you’ve got HIV.

 

According to Gary Williams from Birmingham’s Healthy Gay Life project, some STIs, such as syphilis, may even accelerate the progression of your HIV. ‘We’re also seeing a rise in cases of hepatitis C, particularly in men who have HIV,’ Williams adds. ‘Hepatitis C is treatable in some cases but it’s a long and drawn-out process. So to prevent its spread, use a condom.’ There isn’t routine screening for hepatitis C, so it’s essential that you consult your GP if you think you’re at risk or have been exposed. Williams notes, ‘Gay men should have a check-up at least every six months at a sexual health clinic, because for some infections you will not see any symptoms.’ Let’s take a closer look at the STIs you may be exposed to:

 

1. Gonorrhoea: Also known as the Clap, this bacterial infection has symptoms such as a stinging sensation when you pee, and the need to “go” but finding you can’t urinate once you try. Gonorrhoea can be treated with antibiotics.

 

2. Non-specific urethritis (NSU): Bacteria causes inflammation in your urethra, and often causes similar symptoms to gonorrhoea. You can develop this infection through frequent sex and masturbation, but the NSU can usually be treated using antibiotics.

 

3. Chlamydia: This bacterial infection can occur in your urethra, rectum or throat. You may find you experience discharge and pain when passing urine or pain in your testicles. However, chlamydia can be symptom-free so it’s important to get regular screenings. Again, it can be transmitted through sex with an infected person and is treated with antibiotics.

 

4. Genital herpes: Some men have no symptoms of this viral infection, but your wellbeing may be affected by painful blisters and ulcers on or around your penis or anus. You can catch genital herpes through oral sex if your partner has a cold sore on or in their mouth. Plus, you can catch the infection through close genital contact with someone who has genital herpes.  Your GP can provide anti-viral tablets or cream, which should help the healing process and shorten the length of the episode.

 

5. Syphilis: If you have a painless ulcer, especially in the genital area, you may have contracted this bacterial infection. This ulcer is likely to go away on its own, but may leave behind other symptoms, such as a rash and swollen glands. Syphilis is very infectious in its early stages, and can be passed on by close skin contact during sex. There are treatment options available; antibiotic injections or tablets.

 

6. Genital warts: If you have sex with an infected person, genital warts may appear a few weeks or even months later. This common infection causes pinhead-sized growths, mostly on or around the head of your penis but also in and around your anus. These warts are easier to deal with early on, so talk to your doctor who will freeze them or use a cream to remove them.

Categories: antibiotics nbsp, bacterial infection, gay men, genital, genital herpes, genital warts, HIV, infected person, infection, sexual health, STI Symptoms

The Truth About HIV Rates Within the Gay Community

Recent reports have shown that HIV is the biggest threat to the sexual health and wellness of gay men, and can also affect their mental wellbeing. These same reports have also suggested that the rates of HIV infection amongst the gay male community are out of control. But is the disease really as ‘out of control’ as all that?

 

This was a direct quote from The Lancet Infectious Diseases, an important scientific journal and is just one of a number of recent publications that has made this alarming claim about the HIV rates amongst gay men. Another article noted that young gay men in Belgium were generally showing high rates of unprotected sex, leading to reinfection amongst one another. It showed that the young men who had HIV were hooking up with one another and not using condoms, and this circle was widening as more men became infected.

 

HIV studies are very difficult to conduct properly, because there is a hugely variable time between infection of the disease and diagnosis. You could get HIV from having a one night stand and then discover it a few weeks later when you start to suspect that something has gone wrong. On the other hand, you could get HIV from a long-term partner who is not aware that they have the disease and only find out years and years later when you show symptoms of having AIDS.

 

However, studies do not seem to support the use of the alarmist ‘out of control’ type phrases being used. The transmission of HIV does not appear to have increased amongst any of the populations.

 

On the other hand, the rate of decline in HIV transmission amongst gay men is significantly lower than the decline in any other population. So whilst rates do not appear to be ‘out of control’, the reduction in infection is not what it should be, and further research is needed into why this is.

Categories: control, Disease, gay, gay men, HIV, hiv rates, infection, men, nbsp, Rates

Prevention, Not Control: HIV Drugs Finally Do Their Job

Although the ultimate goal of AIDs therapy is to prevent the HIV affecting anyone’s sexual health in the first place, so far nothing — from vaccines to gels — has proven up to the task. Still, that’s not to say that drugs haven’t controlled the spread of HIV, but now a new exciting study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, has found a way for antiretroviral drugs to do the job for which they were always intended: guarding the wellbeing of healthy, uninfected individuals against HIV.

 

For the study, the researchers investigated almost 2,500 HIV-negative gay men, across six countries, who were at high risk of contracting HIV. Of those participants, some were given the currently prescribed treatment dose of a combination anti-HIV medication known as Truvada, while others took a placebo. After the study’s longest follow up of nearly three years, the researchers found that those taking the medication had a 44% lower rate of HIV infection than those taking a placebo. The benefit was even greater amongst those participants who took their medications more faithfully on a daily basis, as their risk of acquiring HIV dropped to a 73% lower rate than the placebo group.

 

In a statement, Dr. Kevin Fenton, director of the Centres for Disease Control (CDC) National Centre for HIV-AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, commented, ‘These results represent a major advance in HIV prevention research. For the first time, we have evidence that a daily pill used to treat HIV is partially effective for preventing HIV among gay and bisexual men at high risk for infection.’ Other wellness experts echoed this excitement, as those in the HIV community have long been pushing for a stronger preventative strategy, especially in the developing world. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, noted, ‘The study is really quite impressive, and the data are very robust, really strong.’

 

The data was particularly encouraging to Fauci, as it represents a closer look at the difference in HIV infection rates among those taking medications, suggesting that varying degrees of exposure to anti-HIV medications can help to thwart infection. Even the volunteers who weren’t on-the-ball with taking their medications had a 13-fold lower rate of HIV infection than those who showed no measurable level of drug in their system. Fauci explained, ‘This is really huge; this is a very impressive result. As with any new treatment strategy, it’s all about whether you adhere to the regimen.’ Fauci added that he suspects many doctors already prescribe antiretroviral medications for this reason; heading off in uninfected but high-risk individuals. Even though government health officials are yet decide whether the results are robust enough to justify recommending anti-HIV drugs as a prevention strategy, Fauci believes these findings should bolster that practice.

 

Still, that is not to say that the findings give you an excuse to abandon safe sex with condoms. The drugs don’t alter your immune system or prime your body in the same way that a vaccine would against HIV; they act only when the infection is present, and block its ability to infect and replicate in your body’s healthy cells. Therefore, this prevention strategy only ensures that the drugs are on the front lines, ready to act at the first encounter with the virus. As Fenton concluded, ‘[The] results are exciting, but it is not time for anyone to stop using condoms or stop following proven prevention methods. [The study] cannot be seen as the first line of defence against HIV.’

Categories: anti hiv, Antiretroviral Drugs, drugs, fauci, high risk, hiv drugs, hiv infection, HIV prevention, infection, prevention, prevention strategy, Research

Can You Tell the Difference Between STD Symptoms?

Once you become sexually active, the risk of sexually transmitted diseases becomes an issue you need to be aware of. If you have an STD, chances are you’ll also have symptoms on your skin which could determine what form of disease you have. Some don’t display any signs, but if you’re lucky enough to catch the signs early you may be able to treat the problem before it becomes a serious issue. Safe sex practices should always be carried out in order to prevent STDs, and your GP or local GUM clinic can offer advice on how to have safer sex. Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, are the best protection against STD’s, along with being checked regularly with a sexual health check. Here are some of the more common diseases and what you should be keeping a check on.

 

Chlamydia

Chlamydia doesn’t usually have any symptoms, although women sometimes have an increased discharge and men often notice a discharge from their penis. Lower abdominal pain or pain in the testicles may occur, along with pain when you urinate. This is one of the most common STDs, with many sexually active teens spreading the infection through not using protection in bed.

Gonorrhea (GC)

If you’ve caught gonorrhea then you’ll notice symptoms between two and ten days after the exposure. However, in some people, months may pass before you see anything. You may find a thick, cloudy or bloody discharge from the vagina or penis. Men sometimes notice painful or swollen testicles, and both men and women can sometimes experience anal itching. Often mistaken as a urinary infection, burning when you urinate could also be a sign.

Syphilis

There are four stages to the development of syphilis. Primary syphilis can occur ten days to three months after you’ve been exposed to it. You’ll notice a small sore on your genitals, anal area or mouth, depending on where the infection entered the body. Sometimes multiple sores develop, and your lymph nodes swell up. With secondary syphilis, sores the size of a penny which are red or brown in colour erupt all over your body, including your palms. People with this type of syphilis may experience fatigue or soreness. Latent syphilis is the next and may not actually show any symptoms. Lastly, tertiary syphilis is the final stage and can lead to serious cardiovascular and neurological problems – in serious cases, it can be fatal.

Genital Herpes (HSV-2)

Genital herpes doesn’t usually have symptoms or mild ones at best. Most people associate small red bumps or blisters on the genitals or anus with this particular STD, as well as painful itching or blisters with open vesicles. Genital warts may develop in the form of flesh-coloured swellings around your genitals.

Hepatitis B (HBV)

There may be no symptoms to hepatitis B, although your skin and the whites of your eyes may become yellow from jaundice. Other symptoms that some people experience include dark urine, muscle and joint aches, and fatigue.

HIV

There are several stages to the development of HIV, and there aren’t any specific symptoms. Between two to six weeks after the infection is caught you may notice a flu-like illness, including sore throat, swollen glands, night sweats and canker sores in the mouth. Some people find they also have a non-specific rash. As the diseases becomes stronger, infected people notice swollen lymph nodes, which is often the first sign, as well as weight loss, diarrhoea, a cough and shortness of breath from very basic activities.

Categories: genital herpes, infection, ll notice, lymph nodes, notice, people, sexual health, sexually active, STDs, Symptoms, Syphilis

Could an Infection Put You at Risk of Depression?

Infections and autoimmune disorders can take their toll on your physical wellness, but now Danish researchers have found that these disorders can affect other aspects of your wellbeing. According to their new study, published June 12^th in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, infections and autoimmune disorders may increase your risk of developing mental health problems, such as depression, later in life.

Of the three million people who were involved in the study, those who were hospitalised for infections were 62% more likely to go on to develop a mood disorder than with people not hospitalised for infections. Likewise, those who were hospitalised for an autoimmune disease – which occur when your immune system goes awry and attacks your body’s own cells or tissues – were 45% more likely to subsequently develop a mood disorder.

The study included people born in Denmark between 1945 and 1996 who were followed until the end of 2010. The results also revealed a correlation between risk of mood disorder and the number of times a person was hospitalised. Compared to those who weren’t hospitalised for an infection, those who were hospitalised three times with infections during the study had double the risk of a mood disorder, and those who were hospitalised seven times had triple the risk.

Scientists hypothesise that the inflammation that infections or autoimmune disease bring may affect your brain in a way that raises your risk of mood disorders, and the new study supports this theory. The researchers commented that they estimate infections could be responsible for up to 12% of mood disorders, but the link first needs to be confirmed in further studies. However, it’s important to bear in mind that, at this point, only an association has been found.

According to Ian Gotlib, a professor of psychology at Stanford University, who was not involved in the study, the researchers were unable to prove that infections or autoimmune diseases are the cause of mood disorders, as other factors may explain the link, such as stress or the experience of hospitalisation. He added that the study was “impressive” and raised important questions, but future studies need to untangle whether infections are really the cause of mood disorders, or if the two just happen to occur together.

Categories: autoimmune disease, autoimmune disorder, autoimmune disorders, infection, Infections, mood disorder, mood disorders, Research

When Fido Fights You: Dog Bites and How to Deal With Them

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million Americans are bitten by a dog every year. Unfortunately, 885,000 of these bites will be serious enough to require medical attention. Because of this, it is imperative for everyone to pay close attention to the warning signs of a potential dog attack. For example, if a dog begins growling at you, it is never a good idea to confront them. However, no matter how many precautions you take, it is still possible that you could end up facing one of the most common dog bite injuries.

 

 

The Five Most Common Dog Bite Injuries

 

1) Puncture Wounds - If a dog punctures your skin, you will need to seek medical attention immediately, regardless of whether or not the bite caused you to bleed profusely. After all, any puncture wound could cause an infection, so you should never take the chance of letting the bite turn into a more serious issue. Puncture wounds need to be treated with antibiotics, and you will also need to have the wound cleaned thoroughly before it is covered up.

 

 

2) Scarring - Most dog bite wounds will heal completely, but it is definitely possible to end up with scarring as a result of the incident. Unfortunately, children are especially prone to developing scars, and this can have a negative impact on their quality of life. In order to treat this problem, a dog bite victim will often need to go through expensive reconstructive surgery.

 

 

3) Infection - As previously mentioned, a puncture wound can lead to an infection. Children, the elderly and people who have a weakened immune system are more susceptible to infections, but anyone could end up dealing with this issue. The symptoms of an infection include swelling, tenderness, pus, heat and redness, and you will need to visit your doctor for the appropriate medication.

 

 

4) Emotional Damage - Many people who experience a serious dog bite will end up dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This could leave them feeling afraid of dogs, and they might even be scared to go outside. Additionally, PTSD can cause nightmares that will make it difficult for the sufferer to sleep. If you are experiencing PTSD as a result of a dog bite, it will be very important for you to visit a trained counselor in order to work through your anxiety.

 

 

5) Nerve Damage - Although most dog bites do not cause extensive damage, it is still possible for an angry canine to damage the nerves in your neck, arm, leg or face. Sadly, this can lead to chronic pain and a lifetime of mobility issues, and your doctor might not be able to provide you with much assistance aside from pain medication.

 

 

Even if you love dogs, it is still possible for one of them to have a bad reaction to a situation that seems normal. Therefore, you should never let your guard down around another person’s animal. However, if you are still bitten, you should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you recover your medical expenses.

 

 

Writer Melanie Fleury has two dogs and cannot imagine them ever biting anyone , but every dog can potentially cause harm if put in a bad situation. She used the website http://www.mblklawfirm.com/san-bernardino-personal-injury-attorney/ to learn more about what specific laws are regarding dog bites and liability. 

 

 

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/statefarm/8736140828/

Categories: dog bite, Dog Bite Injuries, dog bites, infection, injuries nbsp, nbsp nbsp, puncture wound, puncture wounds

Ways to Prevent and Treat a Fungal Nail Infection

Most people will develop a fungal nail infection at some point or another, and they are easily spread. The infection causes a thickened and unappealing nail which can sometimes become quite painful. It is easy to treat them with medication, but you will need to take this for several weeks in order to clear the infection fully. Studies suggest that between three and eight people in 100 have a fungal nail infection at some point in their lives, and these become more common as we age, with more people get them over the age of 55. They’re also common in people who go swimming regularly or work out in the gym, as communal showers or changing rooms are breeding grounds for infections such as these.

 

A fingernail infection may develop after a toenail infection has occurred, as you may scratch your toe and pick up the infection this way. Interestingly, if you wash your hands more regularly or have them in water a lot (such as if you’re a cleaner or a cook) you may be more prone to infections. This is because the protective skin at the base of the nail becomes damaged and this enables fungi to get in and grow. If you have other conditions you’re also more likely to develop these infections – such conditions include diabetes, poor circulation, psoriasis, a poor immune system or general poor health. Smoking also increases the risk, but sometimes there is no reason behind why you have a nail infection – fungus can grow in hot or humid conditions, so you may have picked up the germs from somewhere and unknowingly provided a prime environment for it to develop. You’ll be able to spot a fungal nail infection by the appearance of the nail – it usually becomes thicker and discoloured, usually turning a yellowish-green colour. In most cases this is all that occurs, but if the infection becomes worse it may lead to white or yellow patched on the nail, or it may become itchy and painful. Though it’s often easy to self-diagnose, other nail conditions can have similar symptoms, so you may wish to get it checked by a GP to confirm that you have a fungal infection. They will usually take a clipping of the nail to be sent for testing.

 

Treatment doesn’t always cure the infection, and the rates of curing for this condition average between 60 to 80 percent. It also doesn’t always clear the infection entirely, so you may find that it returns again later on. Your nail’s appearance might not return to normal – it’s common for people to be left with a stained or marked nail. Anti-fungal tablets or creams are used to treat the infection, as well as clearing any associated fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Anti-fungal nail lacquers are also an option, which are prescribed for specific infections such as those on the end of the nail. In order for it to be effective, it will need to be applied exactly as prescribed – you may need to use it for up to a year on toenail infections for it to clear the infection entirely. In severe cases, the nail may actually have to be removed. Research is being carried out to see if new treatments can be developed to clear fungal nail infections. If there is fresh and healthy nail growing from the base of your nail bed, it’s a sign that the treatment is working. This will continue to grow forward and will eventually grow out the marked or infected nail, so that your nail looks normal again.

 

If you want to prevent a fungal nail infection from developing, you should keep your nails cut short and file down thickened nails. If you do develop an infection, be sure to cut your nail with a separate pair of scissors or clippers than you use on the other nails to stop the spread of infection.

Categories: anti fungal, develop, fungal, fungal nail, infection, Infections, nail, nail infection, nails

Ways to Prevent and Treat a Fungal Nail Infection

Most people will develop a fungal nail infection at some point or another, and they are easily spread. The infection causes a thickened and unappealing nail which can sometimes become quite painful. It is easy to treat them with medication, but you will need to take this for several weeks in order to clear the infection fully. Studies suggest that between three and eight people in 100 have a fungal nail infection at some point in their lives, and these become more common as we age, with more people get them over the age of 55. They’re also common in people who go swimming regularly or work out in the gym, as communal showers or changing rooms are breeding grounds for infections such as these.

 

A fingernail infection may develop after a toenail infection has occurred, as you may scratch your toe and pick up the infection this way. Interestingly, if you wash your hands more regularly or have them in water a lot (such as if you’re a cleaner or a cook) you may be more prone to infections. This is because the protective skin at the base of the nail becomes damaged and this enables fungi to get in and grow. If you have other conditions you’re also more likely to develop these infections – such conditions include diabetes, poor circulation, psoriasis, a poor immune system or general poor health. Smoking also increases the risk, but sometimes there is no reason behind why you have a nail infection – fungus can grow in hot or humid conditions, so you may have picked up the germs from somewhere and unknowingly provided a prime environment for it to develop. You’ll be able to spot a fungal nail infection by the appearance of the nail – it usually becomes thicker and discoloured, usually turning a yellowish-green colour. In most cases this is all that occurs, but if the infection becomes worse it may lead to white or yellow patched on the nail, or it may become itchy and painful. Though it’s often easy to self-diagnose, other nail conditions can have similar symptoms, so you may wish to get it checked by a GP to confirm that you have a fungal infection. They will usually take a clipping of the nail to be sent for testing.

 

Treatment doesn’t always cure the infection, and the rates of curing for this condition average between 60 to 80 percent. It also doesn’t always clear the infection entirely, so you may find that it returns again later on. Your nail’s appearance might not return to normal – it’s common for people to be left with a stained or marked nail. Anti-fungal tablets or creams are used to treat the infection, as well as clearing any associated fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Anti-fungal nail lacquers are also an option, which are prescribed for specific infections such as those on the end of the nail. In order for it to be effective, it will need to be applied exactly as prescribed – you may need to use it for up to a year on toenail infections for it to clear the infection entirely. In severe cases, the nail may actually have to be removed. Research is being carried out to see if new treatments can be developed to clear fungal nail infections. If there is fresh and healthy nail growing from the base of your nail bed, it’s a sign that the treatment is working. This will continue to grow forward and will eventually grow out the marked or infected nail, so that your nail looks normal again.

 

If you want to prevent a fungal nail infection from developing, you should keep your nails cut short and file down thickened nails. If you do develop an infection, be sure to cut your nail with a separate pair of scissors or clippers than you use on the other nails to stop the spread of infection.

Categories: anti fungal, develop, fungal, fungal nail, infection, Infections, nail, nail infection, nails

What are the Infection Risks from Oral Sex?

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Categories: infection, oral sex, sexually transmitted infections

What Do You Need To Know About Typhoid?

The typhoid disease is spread by food or water which has been contaminated by urine or faeces from a person infected with the bacteria. In areas such as Asia, Latin America and Africa, this disease is particularly widespread. The World Health Organisation suggests that around 33 million people are infected with typhoid every year and it is attributed to more than 200,000 deaths around the world, the majority of which are young adults and children. Most of the cases of people in the UK developing typhoid are from people who have visited infected areas and contracted the disease – in 2010, 569 people were diagnosed in England and Wales. The symptoms of typhoid are usually spotted around seven to 14 days after you’ve become infected, and most people either have no symptoms or very mild signs of the disease. The first symptoms are a persistent fever, loss of appetite and nausea, headaches, constipation or diarrhoea, stomach pains, and a rash or small pink spots on your chest or stomach. If left untreated, these symptoms can develop and lead to serious health problems. For example, you may experience low blood pressure, confusion or delirium, pneumonia, intestinal bleeding, meningitis, and heart, liver or kidney infections.

 

If your GP suspects that you’ve been infected with typhoid, they will take a sample of your blood, faeces or urine which will be sent away for testing – it’s important that you explain to them if you’ve visited areas where typhoid is a problem, as many of the symptoms are attributed to other conditions which may make it difficult to diagnose. This condition can be treated with antibiotics, which are generally prescribed to be taken orally – however, if your symptoms are particularly severe, you may need to take them intravenously, through a drip. The regular antibiotics which are prescribed to treat typhoid are ampicillin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin and chloramphenicol. Research suggests that the S. Typhi bacterium is becoming more and more resistant to standard antibiotics, which means that you may need to take a second course if your symptoms relapse. Studies have shown that after treatment, around three in every 100 people who have been infected with typhoid continue to carry the S.Typhi bacteria in their faeces for over a year. This places these people in the category of carriers of typhoid, which means they can infect other people, even if they don’t have any symptoms. Your GP can determine if you’re a carrier by testing a sample of your faeces after you’ve completed your antibiotics – you may need to have a longer course of treatment if you’re found to be a carrier.

 

There are ways in which you can reduce your risk of developing typhoid when you travel to places where this disease is commonly found. For example, you should wash your hands with soap and water, or an alcohol-based cleaner, before eating, after going to the toilet and when having had contact with young children or animals. Don’t drink tap water, and be sure to check that the cap is sealed on any bottled water that you drink. If you’re drinking tap water, be sure to boil it first to kill any bacteria – only use this water when brushing your teeth, as well. Don’t eat raw vegetables, such as salads, as they may have been cleaned in water which has not been prepared properly – you should also only eat food which is freshly prepared and has been cooked through thoroughly. This means only eating food which is very hot, so that you know the bacteria has been killed off – when eating raw fruit and vegetables, try to only eat those which are fresh and can be peeled before eating.

Categories: infection, Travel, typhoid

Which Common Heart Diseases Should You Be Concerned About?

As the UK’s biggest killer, coronary heart disease (CHD) can drastically impact your wellbeing, as well as your heart health. It tends to affect your wellness when fatty materials build up in the walls of your coronary arteries, as this means that your blood can’t easily get to the muscles and tissues of your heart. This clogging-up process is known as atherosclerosis, and can also contribute to high blood pressure, which also increases your risk of heart disease.

You may be at a higher risk of atherosclerosis due to genetic factors, which you might be able to determine if you have a family history of heart disease in middle-age. However, you can reduce your risk of CHD by working on lifestyle factors. An unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, diabetes, high blood pressure and, most importantly, smoking, increases your risk of CHD. Thanks to better treatments, deaths from coronary heart disease have nearly halved in the past couple of decades, but the best treatment is always prevention.

But is this the only wellness worry you should have for your heart? Let’s take a look at other common heart diseases:

1. Chronic Heart Failure (CHD) – Roughly one million people in the UK have been diagnosed with CHD, but there are many more estimated to have it unknowingly. CHD is one of the main causes of heart failure, occurring when your heart doesn’t works effectively as a pump, and fluid gathers in your lower limbs and lungs. CHD can significantly reduce your quality of life, as it comes with a whole host of nasty symptoms.


2. Infection – Thanks to antibiotics, it’s much rarer to be affected by bacterial infections such as endocarditis these days. However, these infections do exist, and can damage the valves of your heart as well as other tissues. This can lead to heart failure or cause abnormal heart rhythms.


3. Congenital heart disease – As your baby grows in your womb, a number of defects can develop in their heart, such as septal defect, which is a hole in the heart. Congenital heart disease may cause your baby to experience abnormal blood flow and put excessive strain on their heart after baby has been born.


4. Cardiomyopathy – This disease of the heart muscle can occur for different reasons. Causes include coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, viral infection, high alcohol intake and thyroid disease.

Categories: Atherosclerosis, Chronic Heart Failure, infection

3 Ways to Avoid the Spread of Infection in the Hospital

We’ve often heard the adage that “Health is wealth.” No matter how much money you accumulate, it’s useless when you are sickly. If you are constantly sick, you will end up spending most of your money on medicine and hospital bills. If you are a healthcare professional, then all the more that you should watch out for your health. You will be exposed to people with different diseases so it’s important that you build up your immune system to fight off infection. Look through these steps and learn how you can avoid the spread of infection in the hospital.

 

Wash Your Hands Frequently

 

When you’re in the medical industry and you’re working with other healthcare professionals, it’s important that you wash your hands frequently. How often should you wash? Wash your hands before and after every procedure you have. It may sound a little obsessive-compulsive but in this line of work, this is actually a good thing. Better safe and clean than sorry. Another thing you may wonder about is how long should you wash your hands? An aunt of mine told me about a technique in handwashing which is pretty simple. Just finish singing the happy birthday song while washing your hands. If you think this method is too simplistic for you, here is a more thorough guide in the medical handwashing technique. You should also take a bath after your shift at the hospital.

 

Get an Immunity Boost the Healthy Way

 

One of the best ways to avoid sickness is through prevention. Healthcare professionals should do what they can to boost their immunity like taking multivitamins. Getting enough rest is vital but it is challenge for those who go on 24 to 36-hour shifts. If they can, doctors should take little naps in the lounge provided for them. Another way that will help them build up their immune system is to eat fruits and vegetables and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Try to insert some exercise in between duty hours. Learn some yoga exercises so you can de-stress and strengthen your inner core. Going organic also helps you detox and gives you more energy to do a lot of things.You should also look for healthier alternatives like cinnamon and honey, which have intensive healing properties and help you fight disease.

 

Make Use of Gadgets that Help Prevent Infection

 

If ever you are working with an immunocompromised patient, wear a face mask to protect him or her especially if you feel you are coming down with a cold. Those with flu should avoid face masks to avoid spreading it to other people. Should you ever find the tables reversed and find yourself the patient and you are required to be admitted in the hospital, you should take precautionary measures yourself so you won’t catch another infection. If you need to have an IV, the Curos® Port Protector will help fight infection as it aids in effectively disinfecting the IV access port. Being a patient isn’t easy. The least you can do is to keep an eye out for your welfare so you can avoid circumstances that will complicate your condition and worsen whatever ailment you have.

 

About the Author

Based in San Diego California, Tiffany Matthews is a professional writer with over 5 years of writing experience. She also blogs about travel, fashion, and anything under the sun at wordbaristas.com, a group blog that she shares with her good friends. In her free time, she likes to travel, read books, and watch movies. You can find her on Twitter as @TiffyCat87.

Categories: health, hospital, infection