Why do yeast infections cause so much itchiness?
Written by:
Obstetrician - gynaecologist
Published: 16/06/2022
Edited by: Conor Lynch
In one of today’s informative articles, highly experienced and revered consultant gynaecologist, Mr Mahantesh Karoshi, we find out why exactly yeast infections lead to an intense amount of itchiness, and what the most common symptoms associated with yeast infections are.
Why do yeast infections cause so much itchiness?
There are many possible explanations. Some of the more plausible ones are that candida can actually reside on the skin surface, particularly on the margins of the skin where the mucous membranes are. Candida can reside at this juncture because it is moist, dark, and warm. These specific areas (where the skin meets the vagina) provide the right kind of environment for yeast infections to really proliferate.
Some believe the itching is caused due to the fact that, when candida changes, it mutates into a particular form, as it has small hooks which can grab onto the skin and latch and burrow into the skin. This can create a sensation of itching. The longer the duration of infection, the more established the yeast infection in a particular area can be.
Another theory is that the yeast cells actually become infected by the immune system, so the immune system will, in the skin, release certain chemicals such as histamines or various other chemicals which will try to attack the yeast and set up an inflammatory response.
Apart from itchiness, what are the most common symptoms associated with yeast infections?
There are many symptoms of a yeast infection. The main ones that patients typically report are itchiness, redness, and heat.
Mr Mahantesh Karoshi is the ideal medical professional for you if you are currently suffering from any of the abovementioned symptoms. You can schedule either an online or face-to-face appointment with him today by heading on over to his Top Doctors profile.