Antibiotic Overkill A young woman was taking antibiotic pills for a urinary infe

Question

Antibiotic Overkill

A young woman was taking antibiotic pills for a urinary infection. Several days into her course of medication, she began to experience peculiar symptoms. At first, they were hardly noticeable. Very quickly, however, they worsened and became embarrassing and unbearable.

She noticed a white coating on her tongue, bad breath, and an awful taste in her mouth. Despite persistent brushing and mouthwash applications, she was unable to completely remove the film. Furthermore, she had excessive vaginal discharges consisting of a cheeselike white substance. When she began to have vaginal itching, she finally decided it was time to seek help.

Reluctantly, she revisited her personal physician and described the symptoms. Her doctor explained the symptoms and provided additional prescriptions to alleviate her distress.

What happened to the young woman in this situation?

How had her body’s defenses been violated?

How can she avoid a repeat of this situation?

Explanation / Answer

The young woman most probably must be suffering from vaginal yeast infection. It is also known as candidiasis. A special kind of yeast called candida is mainly responsible for most of the yeast infection. Small amount of bacteria and yeast cells are found in vaginal area, mouth and digestive tract. Yeast infection mainly occurs when this balance is disturbed and the amount of yeast becomes too much causing the infection.

Normally the hormone estrogen helps the good bacteria called lactobacilli to grow. These bacteria kills harmful microorganisms in the vaginal area and keep it healthy. As mentioned, the young woman was on antiobiotic pills. These antibiotics have decreased the amount of lactobacillus in the vaginal area leading to excess growth of candida yeast.

She can avoid the repeat of this situation by consulting a doctor and using the prescribed anti-fungal cream ointment or tablet.

Besides this she can take some extra care such as;-

1. eating a well balanced diet

2. taking yoghurt

3. taking yoghurt supplements

4. washing underwear in hot water

5. wearing natural fabrics such as cotton linen and silk.

6. using natural remedies such as coconut oil, tea tree oil cream etc.

In addition to this she should avoid;-

1.wearing tight undergarments

2. undergarments made of synthetic fabrics

3. taking antibiotics only when doctor has prescribed

4. using vaginal douche product

5. sitting around in wet bathing suits.

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