Among the many organisms that live in the human body is the yeast Candida albicans, Thrush, which lives in 80 percent of the human population at anyone time. Candida can found on the skin, in the stomach, colon, vagina, rectum, mouth, and throat. Under normal circumstances Candida has no harmful effects but can cause problems when an overgrowth appears in one of the areas mentioned, an overgrowth of this yeast is called Thrush and the medical name for Thrush is candidiasis

Thrush can become a serious problem if it is not treated, and anyone who thinks they may be suffering from Thrush should seek medical advice at the earliest opportunity.

The telltale signs and symptoms of Thrush?

In the mouth it looks like creamy white patches or small red spots on the tongue, the roof of the mouth (also known as the hard palate), gums or throat. Crusting on the corners of the mouth is also a common symptom of Thrush. Thrush makes it difficult and painful to swallow and can cause chest pain as well as nausea and making food taste different.

A medical practitioner is normally able to to check oral Thrush by checking your mouth and throat though in more serious cases they may examine your throat and stomach with an endoscope using X-rays or visual examination.

Many women suffer from Thrush, in fact it's been estimated that over 75% of all women will experience candidiasis, a candida yeast infection more commonly known as Thrush, at some point in their lives. The telltale signs of a yeast infection include a thick, cottage-cheese-like discharge along with itching and burning. Some women also notice swelling of the lips which can also be red and tender.

Can female Thrush be prevented?

Normal amounts of yeast are needed for good health so primary prevention of vaginal yeast is not possible. Because the infection is a yeast and feeds on sugar some women have found it helps to prevent a recurrence of yeast overgrowth by limiting the sugar in their diet. Another easy method to use is to allow the area to breathe by wearing cotton panties and skirts or loose-fitting pants.

If infections constantly reoccur a medical examination is recommended to confirm diagnosis, but in any case ensure you seek medical advice before undertaking any form of treatment.

The author, Joanna Buckle has written on womens issues for many years and is compiling information and advice for female Thrush as it affects so many women in todays fast paced world.