Candida is an yeast type of fungus that occurs on the skin and cavities of the body but will not cause an infection in most cases. A candida infection, known as candidiasis, is more likely to occur on the skin although it can also infect the vagina, mouth or intestines. Infection of the latter two sites is usually limited to immunocompromised patients like in HIV/AIDS.
While candida tends to live on the skin without causing a fungal infection of the skin, if the conditions are favorable, it will become pathogenic. Like other skin fungi, it needs the ideal conditions like warmth, moisture and darkness to thrive and if the body’s immune defenses are lowered, this harmless yeast will quickly infect the skin and body.
The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by layered membranes, known as meninges, and cerebrospinal fluid. In certain instances, this lining becomes inflamed and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is also affected. This condition is known as meningitis and may increase pressure on the brain and spinal cord, causing a range of generalized and localized symptoms. Meningitis is a serious condition and is potentially fatal.
Continue reading
Bacterial vaginosis is the medical term for a bacterial infection in the vagina. The vagina harbors many naturally occurring species of bacteria in a controlled environment. With a balanced pH and a constant level of moisture, the vaginal tissue remains intact from any bacterial invasion. However under certain circumstances, a bacterial overgrowth can occur. Alternatively, foreign bacteria may gain entry into the vagina and infect the cavity.
Continue reading
A foul smelling vaginal odor affects many women and may occur with or without any discharge. Often associated with overgrown pubic hair and poor hygiene, a smelly odor from the vagina may be indicative of a medical disorder that requires treatment in order to be corrected. In these cases, vaginal douching, removing the pubic hair and even good personal hygiene will have a limited effect in reducing the smell.
Vaginal odor is often associated with a “fishy” odor. However a range of other odors may also be present, like a “chemical” odor associated with high concentrations of ammonia, as well as damp and musty odors. It is important to identify if the odor is emanating internally, often carried to the outside by vaginal discharge, or if it is only present on the outside, from the vulva or surrounding areas.