cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
I had my gyno test me for vaginal yeast -- yikes, it came back positive. She prescribed two days of diflucan.
I called my LLMD's office and told the nurse about the test and expressed concern that i could have a systemic infection.
She checked with him and called back to say that the 2 days of Diflucan is okay and that i may want to take probiotics.
This seems like shutting the barn door after the horse has galloped away. I mean I already have the yeast, plus I have been on probiotics since day one of abx, which they should have had in my chart.
Another thing that concerns me is that at my last appt, the nurse told me that my cortisol levels were high, but when the LLMD came in at the end, he didn't mention any adrenal therapy,
and i forgot to ask because they were hurrying me to wind up a long visit.
Is it just me, or does it seem like my LLMD should be more aggressive in treating the adrenals and the vaginal yeast? I feel like I'm having to devise my own therapies.
How many of you have to devise your own adrenal and yeast programs, or do your LLMDs participate in this??
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
posted
I don't know anything about the adrenal side of things, but I can say that probiotics help immensely. Even when I am already having yeast problems, I've gotten them in check with a steady diet of probiotics.
Some of the herbs I'm taking may also be helpful though.
cats claw & resveratrol
-------------------- 09/29/07: bitten since 05/01: omnicef+biaxin+plaquenil 350 cats claw + knotwood thruout. Posts: 227 | From Northern CA (bitten in Illinois) | Registered: Jan 2008
| IP: Logged |
Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
-
Even just two days of diflucan can, surprisingly, help. Ask if you can get more if you need it, but it can be hard on the liver.
Probiotcs are necessary and I love Olive Leaf extract (OLE) because when I was on abx the longest - 2 months - I took OLE and a yeast infection never even developed. That is a world record for me. If you can add OLE now, it may help. If not, be sure to request more diflucan.
Cortisol can rise from any stress - infections pretty much top that list.
Good sleep hygiene tops the list of what can help. Melatonin, herbs to support (not boost) endocrine system such as ashwagandha, Siberian Ginseng, cordyceps, rhodiola (start slow and low, though). EFAs, ( i.e. fish oils)
Be very sure you taking NOTHING TO "BOOST" energy. It can create a rush and push the cortisol up even higher.
You might see if a book or doctor could address the matter further and call back and ask your LLMD if s/he has any suggestions. I think it warrants a follow-up question from you.
Yes, we all have to learn so much and design or fine tune - and adapt - this is just such an encompassing situation. Sigh!
-
[ 21. May 2008, 05:59 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007
| IP: Logged |
Clarissa
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4715
posted
Hi,
I don't know much about adrenal issues but there is NO question in my mind that you should be given AT LEAST 2 weeks of diflucan (if not a month's worth).
I took it for 3 straight months when my yeast went systemic. Probiotics are preventive but like you said, they're not going to kill what's already been created.
Even Nystatin would be more agressive than just probiotics.
I think we all feel your frustration. Every single one of us has probably experienced a crossroad of some sort with our LLMD's. You just really need to be an advocate of your own health and clearly explain your reasoning.
They usually will come around and see your point.
I think your gut instincts are absolutely correct.
Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
-
If your doctor orders more diflucan, make sure the script is very specific as to how it is written for DAILY Rx for # of consecutive days. Refill if necessary would be nice.
Some insurance companies will only pay for one pill per week. Some will pay for one pill every three days.
There is one lyme protocol that uses difulcan daily for many weeks. (a doctor from Sweden, or Switzerland, I think). One study was for 25 days, the other for 50 days.
posted
2 days?? Sheesh. That wouldn't kill too many yeasties in MY body!
Which probiotic are you taking and how much? How is your diet?
Get this under control before it gets any worse.
I don't even know what you're supposed to do for too much cortisol?? I've only had the opposite problem.
and Yes, we all have to be our own advocates... It's exhausting work! Wish it could be otherwise.
But... if you feel you need to change drs... do it!
-------------------- --Lymetutu-- Opinions, not medical advice! Posts: 96227 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
| IP: Logged |
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
Hey everybody, thanks for your replies.
For a couple months I took Jarrodophilus, 4x day, plus yougurt once a day. The past month I've been taking Culterelle 3x day, and no yogurt.
Looks like I need a different brand of probiotics!
As for diet, I avoid all processed foods, but i do eat fruits. I've always eaten a lot of whole grains, which I will now be eliminating or at least cutting down.
And -- ashamedly -- I admit that I eat a Dove candy bar every night. religiously. (i know, i know)
I am going through some serious chocolate withdrawl! lol.
After reading your replies, I will call my LLMD's office and ask for another script. Sometimes this all gets so confusing -- getting others' opinions really helps!
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
Geneal
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 10375
posted
Actually it is a German doctor who does the diflucan protocol.
It is for 60 days. I am on my third run of this therapy.
I take 200mg once a day for 60 days. Then 10-14 days off (covered by nystatin).
Weird thing is my joint pain is almost gone.
I am also taking biaxin/mepron for babesia.
Flagyl once a week to prevent c. diff.
Thus far my liver enzymes have been normal.
I should mention that I have a positive history of hepatitis and pancreatitis.
So far so good.
Get enzymes checked again next week.
Hugs,
Geneal
Posts: 6250 | From Louisiana | Registered: Oct 2006
| IP: Logged |
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
very interesting,Gen.
You guys have me thinking: since my liver enzymes are very slightly elevated, is diflucan a good idea?
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
posted
With elevated liver enzymes, it may be a problem. So get that liver checked after about 2 wks if you're given that much diflucan.
Your diet is your main problem. Are either of those acidophilus pills the refrigerated kind? IF not, they may not be good enough. I don't know.
I would go with Theralac. It's awesome, but you will have to follow a good diet too. Cut out some of the grains if you can. And the candy... of course!
Can you live with eating one Dove bar a week?? And btw, "sugar-free" candy also feeds yeast, so don't go there!
I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news... I have to watch my diet like a hawk and I'm not even on abx.
-------------------- --Lymetutu-- Opinions, not medical advice! Posts: 96227 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
I am surprised noone mentioned oregano oil. It did wonders for me, where nystatin wasn't helping at all.
-------------------- Why me? Well, why not me??? Posts: 411 | From San Francisco, CA | Registered: Mar 2007
| IP: Logged |
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
me feel sad...love chocolate...regressing to infantile mumbling...lymetoo strict disciplinarian.
just kidding, Lymetoo, thanks for the advice!
I'm going to order the theralac.
Is it okay to take oregano oil and olive leaf extract and caprylic acid together, or is that overkill?
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
quote:Originally posted by cottonbrain: me feel sad...love chocolate...regressing to infantile mumbling...lymetoo strict disciplinarian.
What do you expect from a retired elementary school teacher??!
ralph.. you still there for the other question?
-------------------- --Lymetutu-- Opinions, not medical advice! Posts: 96227 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
| IP: Logged |
cantgiveupyet
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 8165
posted
you may need to go off abx to treat the yeast, i had to go off for almost a year. I had yeast that was resistant to difflucan, so make sure what came back on the fungal culture is sensitive to difflucan.
Nystatin, works great to prevent yeast along with the diet.
femdopholous is another good probiotic for women.
I had one llmd tell me difflucan was rough on the liver if used with abx, they would not prescribe it. My pelvic pain clinic practitioner will not allow me on any abx without difflucan because she knows how bad it affects me and takes me months to get out of the flare.
Olive leaf works well.
oh, if your yeast isnt systemic, gynazole topical insert works very well, its an rx. Its good stuff.
-------------------- "Say it straight simple and with a smile."
"Thus the task is, not so much to see what no one has seen yet, But to think what nobody has thought yet, About what everybody sees."
-Schopenhauer
pos babs, bart, igenex WB igm/igg Posts: 3156 | From Lyme limbo | Registered: Oct 2005
| IP: Logged |
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
Cant, is Nystatin easier on the liver than diflucan? do people take it every day?
If you take Diflucan, do you still take olive leaf extract?
What's a good dose of Olive Leaf Ex?
(ironically, I had started Olive Leaf Extract about a week before I had the yeast test)
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
posted
Nystatin doesn't affect the liver at all! You can take it everyday.
A few tips... The liquid contains SUGAR, and the powder form tastes nasty! Most use the tablets.
Dont' know about the OL.
-------------------- --Lymetutu-- Opinions, not medical advice! Posts: 96227 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
| IP: Logged |
Clarissa
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4715
posted
I think the doseage for Olive Leaf EXTRACT is 2-3 capsules a day. Nature's Way is good and it's also cheap.
I used this in adjunct with diflucan and a strict anti-candida diet when my yeast was really bad.
Nystatin is definitely "safer" than Diflucan as far as your liver is concerned but Nystatin just hits GI tract, whereas Diflucan is more potent and hits the systemic cases more agressively.
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
Clarissa, thx for the dosage on the OLE.
boy am i learning a lot here! Thank you so much, everyone, for contributing to this post.
Ralph, I had no idea that just a little rise in liver enzymes could indicate such bad liver stress. My LLMD is just keeping an eye on mine for now.
The cheapest source I found for Theralac was 37 bucks for 30 caps, plus shipping. Does that sound about right? How many do you take a day?
I checked out the Primal Defense Ultra and saw that one of its ingredients is the same stuff as in Florastor -- but couldn't find the quantity on the label. It seems to be cheaper than going with both Florastor and Theralac together.
(Day 2 on my candida diet was not a total bomb. Lymetoo, you will be happy to know i did NOT succumb to the Dove cravings.)
Anybody know where to find anti-candida diets?
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
-
you asked: " . . . Is it okay to take oregano oil and olive leaf extract and caprylic acid together, or is that overkill? . .."
Ohhh. I think that could be very rough.
Both the oregano and the caprylic acid can be very strong.
Oregano should be in a sturdy gel-cap, not drops in water - some do that - but it can burn the sensitive tissue all the way down. You might also want to take either of those in the middle of a meal so your stomach has something to work with.
I've been told it's always best to start mild, slow and add just one thing at a time. Rotating may be fine, but I sure would not double or triple up.
OLE may be the easiest if you have sensitive GI stuff . . . it's the only one of those three that I can use. But Oregano oil may be stronger.
posted
I take Nystatin liquid, after having taken the powder stuff for about 6 months. The liquid to my knowledge, does NOT contain sugar.
I get it from a compounding pharmacy, and I believe the reason I get it from there is so it doesn't have any sugar in it.
I take 2 caps 2x/day of Olive Leaf Extract. It has helped immensely with my yeast problems. I haven't had any yeast issues in the entire 6 months I have been on abx. (And my diet isn't perfectly anti yeast)
Posts: 215 | From Student | Registered: Oct 2007
| IP: Logged |
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
well, it certainly is encouraging to know that proper diet and supps/meds are working!
two times a day for the olive leaf sounds good. I ordered it from Swanson's because it was cheap-- hope it's a good one.
the good times just keep rolling, dont they. thanks, all!
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
posted
I agree completely w/backintherain. Increasing your probiotics, is about the best thing you can do for a yeast problem. Whenever I've had a vaginal infection, I've treated it w/one of the OTC antifungal vaginal creams to get rid of the current infection, then increased the amount of acidophilus I'm taking.
If you're on antibiotics or if your antibiotic dose is increased, you are at risk for a yeast infection. That's because in addition to killing the bad bugs, antibiotics kill off your normal flora as well. This allows for other opportunistic organisms such as candida to populate the affected area(s). Since these organisms are not your normal flora, it can lead to an infection.
Candida is not your normal flora. It's a fungus. Acidophilus is a bacteria similar to your normal flora and taking it will help repopulate your vagina &/or gut w/what should be there instead of the candida.
There are lots of good probiotics out there. I like the acidophilus by Natrol. I take 8 capsules/day (4 caps twice a day) because I'm on so many antibiotics and anti-microbial herbs.
Hope this helps.
Patti
Posts: 975 | From California | Registered: Apr 2007
| IP: Logged |
you can also buy just plain boric acid capsules or make your own - if you google it you will find instructions....
-------------------- "We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us" - e.m. forster Posts: 921 | From PA | Registered: Jan 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
I second Larkspur's recommendation on the Yeast Arrest vaginal suppositories. They have not only helped me with yeast but also with bacterial infections.
I also like the Vitamin E vaginal suppositories that are carried at Rockwell, and I also use the CandaClear suppository by Pharmax. I juggle the different products depending upon what I feel I need. After 15 years of experiencing vag. symptoms, these 3 products at Rockwell stopped the problems for me.
I've had yeast issues for a long time. Undergoing Lyme treatment has made my yeast issues more challenging. I have used natural anti-fungals and also use Diflucan and Nystatin (again rotating treatments as needed). I have found that I need to use products for vag. support in addition to taking oral antifungals and probiotics.
Boric Acid has safely been used for vaginal infections for a long time. There a many medical articles on its use. And many of the more enlightened doctors will recommend the use of Boric Acid to women with vaginal infections.
You can also make your own Boric Acid vaginal suppositories. And I do this also. It is very easy and inexpensive. The only drawback is that it will not have the often helpful and soothing herbs that the Yeast Arrest product contain. And if the tissues are really inflammed and irritated, sometimes using a Vitamin E suppository or a product that has the herbs (Yeast Arrest) or the probiotics for vaginal application are more helpful.
To make your own Boric Acid suppositories you need to purchase:
1. Empty Gelatin Capsules (Size 00) -- Available online and at some pharmacies.
2. A bottle of Boric Acid Powder -- Available online and at some pharmacies.
Simply fill the empty capsules with Boric Acid powder. Each Size 00 capsule filled with Boric Acid will supply 600 mg of Boric Acid.
These vaginal suppositories can be used once every 12 hours (am/pm) for as along as needed. Then they can be used prophylatically to help keep the vaginal Ph in the healthy acidic range and to keep future infections from surfacing.
Do not ingest the Boric Acid capsules. They are for vaginal use only.
It's certainly been a lifesaver for me.
Below is an article by Dr. Tori Hudson, N.D. from the Rockwell Nutrition site. I found it to be very helpful.
Fuzzy (I'm not affiliated with Rockwell. I'm just a satisfied customer of theirs.)
Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) by Tori Hudson, N.D.
Introduction and General Observations
One of the most common chief complaints among female patients is vaginitis. Although it is often assumed that it is due to a yeast infection, only 33 percent of women with this complaint will have vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).
VVC encompasses a broad range of issues, ranging from patients who have colonization of yeast but are asymptomatic, to those who have frequent, recurrent and symptomatic episodes. An estimated 75 percent of all women will have at least one VVC infection in their life, 45 percent will have multiple episodes, and 5 to 8 percent will have recurrent (RVVC) episodes, which are defined as four or more episodes within one year.1
Microbiology
Studies throughout the world have shown that Candida albicans is the most common cause of VVC and is the organism identified in 85 percent to 90 percent of positive vaginal yeast cultures. However, there are infections with non-albicans species, such as C glabrata, C tropicallis, and C krusei, which are becoming more prevalent in the US. Of the non-albicans species, Candida glabrata is the most common. The number of VVC cases that are due to non-albicans species has steadily increased, from 9.9 percent in 1988 to 17.2 percent in 1995.2 It is thought that this increase is due at least in part to the increased use of over-the-counter medications and that non-albicans species are becoming less susceptible to these agents.3
Evaluation
A diagnosis of VVC is made by a combination of history, clinical examination, specimen collection, a microscopic examination of a specimen using a potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation, and, if necessary, a culture. A history that is consistent with VVC includes itching, burning, a thick white vaginal discharge, dyspareunia, and dysuria. Keep in mind that deferential diagnoses include vulvar hyperplasia, vestibulitis, genital ulcerations, lichen sclerosis, or other dermatitis conditions.
Prevention Concepts
Preventing infections is almost always easier than treating them. Here are some simple strategies:
Tight clothing can predispose one to candidiasis.4
Women who wear panty hose are about three times more likely to experience an incidence of yeast vaginitis infections than those who do not.5
Safer sex practices, such as use of condoms, may be helpful in preventing even infections not clearly considered to be sexually transmitted, such as yeast and bacterial vaginosis.
Support a healthy vaginal ecosystem and immune system by having a generally whole foods diet and very little to no sugar and refined carbohydrates.
Consider food, pollen, clothing detergent and semen allergies.
Increase intake of acidophilus yogurt and/or take supplemental lactobacillus supplements when using antibiotics.
Consider using condoms to prevent all types of vaginitis and to maintain a normal pH, and use condoms until the treatment regimen is complete to prevent recurrence.
Overview of Alternative Treatments
An important aspect of treating vaginal infections is looking at the problem more holistically and systemically rather than just finding drug alternatives to killing unwanted organisms. To this end, we try to improve the vaginal immune system, support the systemic immune system, restore the proper balance of normal microflora in the vagina, restore the normal pH of the vagina, decrease the inflammation and irritation of the tissue itself, provide symptomatic relief and, when necessary, curb the population and overgrowth of the offending organism. Although this approach sounds basic and logical, it is radically different from the conventional approach, which is essentially to kill the overgrowth of the causative organism. Although in severe, acute cases pharmaceutical antifungals may ultimately be necessary, there is evidence that the organisms are becoming resistant to overuse of these products. Even when the pharmaceutical over-the-counter medications or prescription medications need to be used, the principles and methods of some of the natural treatments can be an important part of a healthy vaginal ecosystem and immunity for the future.
Although the vaginal ecosystem is in a variable state throughout a woman's lifetime, nothing is more key to this ecosystem than lactobacillus. Perhaps no other concept is as important as the health of the ecosystem of the vagina.
The vaginal microflora of healthy asymptomatic women consists of a wide variety of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria dominated by lactobacillus. The range of bacterial types isolated is immense, including Staphylococcus species, Gardnerella vaginalis, Streptococcus species, Bacteroides species, Lactobacillus species, Mobiluncus, even Candida species (most commonly Candida albicans), and others. Again, the predominant organisms isolated from the normal vagina are members of the Lactobacillus genus.
Alternative Treatments
Nutrition
It cannot be overemphasized how the health of the entire body affects the internal ecosystem of the vagina. The pH of the vagina, the microflora that live there, the hormonal cycles, and the immune tissue in the vagina are all influenced by our general health and our dietary habits, and this in turn determines how susceptible we are as a host to the overgrowth of the unfriendly organisms that cause the vaginitis. A generally healthy diet supports our body's defense system. A diet low in sugars and refined carbohydrates is particularly important in preventing candida vaginitis. In general, a well-balanced, whole-foods diet that is low in fat, sugars, refined foods and alcohol is optimal in preventing many common infections. Some women who have severe, stubborn cases of chronic candida vaginitis may benefit from more strict diets that avoid fermented foods. These "anti-candida" diets can be rigorous and stressful and are often unnecessary.
Botanicals
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic extracts have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans by blocking lipid production, which thereby inhibits its growth.6 The major growth inhibitory component in garlic extract is allicin, and garlic products that have the highest amount of allicin would therefore be the most desirable. Garlic is diverse in its uses for vaginitis because it is both antibacterial and antifungal.7,8 Although I am not aware of any research on the use of garlic inserted in the vagina, this has consistently been one of my recommendations for women over the years for both candida (yeast) vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis. A carefully peeled clove (so as not to nick the garlic) can be inserted into the vagina for 6 to 8 hours. The garlic can be threaded like a necklace so that it can easily be removed, as if it were a tampon. "Garlic tampons" or garlic capsules can be inserted intravaginally in the evening and then lactobacillus capsules can be inserted in the morning to create a plan that both inhibits growth of the offending organism and repopulates the microflora to a normal healthy state.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Oregon grape (Berberis vulgaris)
Goldenseal and Oregon grape root contain a substance called berberine, which acts both as an antimicrobial and immune enhancer. This immune effect is especially specific in epithelial mucus membrane tissue as is found in the vagina, mouth, and even the stomach. Berberine has been shown to possess antimicrobial activity against a wide variety of microorganisms, some of which are found in the vagina, such as Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Staph aureus and others.9 Preparations of goldenseal and Oregon grape have been used both orally, in teas, capsules and liquid extracts, and intravaginally in douches and suppositories. Because of their ability to affect both yeast and bacteria, these two herbs would seem a logical choice in cases where multiple infectious agents are involved.
Additional Treatments
Lactobacillus
Although we often think only of Lactobacillus acidophilus, several species of lactobacillus populate the vagina. The predominant species of lactobacillus isolated from the vagina of healthy women remains controversial. The mechanisms by which lactobacillus does its remarkable job are many. A low vaginal pH is believed to be a primary mechanism controlling the composition of the vaginal microflora. Lactic acid is produced by the metabolism of lactobacillus; although there may be other ways in which the vagina maintains its normal acidic environment, the role of lactobacilli seems evident. Lactobacilli thrive at an acidic pH of 3.5 - 4.5 and these values are indeed found in the normal vagina throughout the menstrual cycle. Lactobacilli have also been shown to interfere with how pathogenic bacteria adhere and colonize the cells of the vagina.10
The concept that lactobacilli might be useful when supplied in the diet, either as an oral supplement or intravaginally, dates back to the 1890s. While scientists have vacillated on the value of lactobacilli in prevention or in treatment, patients in need have not. In fact, lactobacillus therapy is quite popular both with alternative practitioners and with women who seek simple self-treatment methods. A study was done in 1992 on the daily ingestion of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophillus in women with recurrent candida vaginitis. In the women who ate 8 oz daily of the yogurt, there was a threefold decrease in candida colonization when compared to the women who did not eat the yogurt.11 It is now also popular to ingest Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements in oral form in place of or in addition to eating yogurt. Another popular method is the application of lactobacilli directly into the vagina. Douching used to be a popular method but, since research has shown that douching may contribute to infertility and pelvic infections, a safer and more convenient method is available by introducing lactobacillus capsules or tablets into the vagina.12 As either a solo therapy or in combination with other vaginal or oral interventions, lactobacillus is the key to establishing normal vaginal microflora, preventing recurring infections, as well as treating acute candida and bacterial infections of the vagina.
Boric Acid
The most successful natural treatment for VVC that I've encountered is the use of boric acid suppositories. Several studies confirm its success, ranging from 64% to 98% effective.13,14,15,16 Although regimens may vary, the most effective treatment in women with chronic, persistent VVC was using a 600 mg capsule vaginally, twice daily for 2 to 4 weeks. The only downside I have observed is that if the tissue has been irritated enough by the infection, the boric acid leaks onto the vulva as the capsule melts and then passes over this tissue, and burning can occur. Using vitamin E oil or lanolin or even Vaseline on the external genitalia to protect them from the boric acid seems to avert any significant discomfort.
Arden's Powder
A colleague of mine has been using a product called Arden's vaginal douche powder for over twenty years. She attributes its antifungal properties to the essential oils of eucalyptus, thyme and boric acid powder. The menthol crystals in the oils provide quick relief from itching and burning even before the infection is cleared. Although I have not been a strong proponent of douching, this old-fashioned approach can most likely be used safely under low pressure.
Directions: Mix 1 tsp of Arden's Powder in 1 pint of warm water. Fill the douche apparatus with the solution and gently insert the nozzle into the vagina. Use two applications daily for the first two days, then reduce to one application daily for 5 more days. Avoid during menstrual period or pregnancy.
Sample Natural Treatment Plan for Yeast Vaginitis Acute:
Avoid sugars, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol. Eat 8 oz. acidophilus yogurt daily or take lactobacillus species capsules containing 2-4 billion organisms per day.
Insert one boric acid powder capsule a.m. and p.m. for 3-7 days in mild cases, and up to 14 days for resistant cases.
Chronic:
Avoid sugars, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and fermented foods.
Eat 8 oz. acidophilus yogurt daily or take lactobacillus species capsules containing 4-8 billion organisms per day.
Take one garlic capsule one to two times daily by mouth.
Insert one boric acid powder capsule a.m. and p.m. for 14 days. Repeat for an additional 14 days if responding but not completely resolved after the first 2 weeks.
Prophylaxis
Avoid sugars, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and fermented foods.
Eat 8 oz. acidophilus yogurt daily or take lactobacillus species capsules containing 2 billion organisms per day.
Take one garlic capsule daily by mouth.
Insert one boric acid powder capsule once daily at bedtime, during menstruation only, for 4 consecutive months.
During Pregnancy
Avoid sugars, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and fermented foods.
Eat 8 oz. acidophilus yogurt daily or take lactobacillus species capsules containing 2-4 billion organisms daily.
Take one garlic capsule daily by mouth. Avoid boric acid suppositories and herbal suppositories.
Principles of Treatment
The main concepts for managing VVC are: Be certain of your diagnosis, manage other influences, and be creative and persistent when what you are doing is not providing relief or the patient has recurrences. Remember that VVC is frequently misdiagnosed by both patients and practitioners. Taking shortcuts in history, physical exams and testing can result in misdiagnosis, unnecessary treatments, and delays in effective treatment. Most cases of VVC will be very effectively treated with natural methods. For those unusual cases that are not, there are various oral and vaginal regimens including butoconazole cream, clotrimazole cream or vaginal tablets, miconazole cream or suppositories, terconazole cream or suppositories, fluconazole oral and nystatin vaginal tablets. Treatment options for non-Albicans candida infections include more aggressive fluconazole and terconazole regimens, flucytosine vaginally, and boric acid vaginal capsules.
VVC may seem trivial to many, but for some, the discomfort, the chronicity, and the health care costs incurred are far more than trivial. The practitioner who is methodical, arrives at an accurate diagnosis, and offers empathy and intellect in treatment, will provide the best care to the most patients.
References:
1 Foxman B, Barlow R, D'Arcy H, Gilespie B, Sobel J. Candida vaginitis: self-reported incidence and associated costs. Sex Transm Dis 2000;27(4):230-235. 2 Spinillo A, Capuzzo E, Gulminetti R, et al. Prevalence of and risk factors for fungal vaginitis caused by non-albicans species. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1997;176:138-141. 3 Odds F. Resistance of yeasts to azole-derivative antifungals. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1993;31:463-471. 4 Elegbe I, Botu M. A preliminary study of dressing patterns and incidence of candidiasis. Am J Public Health 1982; 72: 176-177. 5 Heidrich F, Berg A, Bergman J. Clothing factors and vaginitis. J Family Practice. 1984; 19 (4): 491-494. 6 Adetumbi M, Javor G, Lau B. Allium sativum (Garlic) inhibits lipid synthesis by Candida albicans. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. 1986; 30 (3): 499-501. 7 Moore G, Atkins R. The fungicidal and fungistatic effects of an aqueous garlic extract on medically important yeast-like fungi. Mycologia, 1977. 15: 466-468. 8 Cavallito C, Bailey J. Allicin, the antibacterial principle of Allium sativum. Isolation, physical properties and antibacterial action. J Am Chem Soc 1944; 66: 1950-1951. 9 Amin AH, Subbaiah TV, Abbasi KM. Berberine sulfate: antimicrobial activity, bioassay, and mode of action. Canadian J Microbiology. 1969; 15:1067-1076 10 Chan RCY, Bruce AW, Reid G. Adherence of cervical, vaginal and distal urethral normal microbial flora to human uroepithelial cells and the inhibition of adherence of gram-negative uropathogens by competitive exclusion. J Urol 1984; 131: 596-601. 11 Hilton E, Isenberg H, Alperstein P, France K, Borenstein M. Ingestion of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus as prophylaxis for candidal vaginitis. Annals of Internal Med. 1992; 116: 353-357. 12 Jeavons H. Prevention and treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis using exogenous Lactobacillus. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2003;32(3):287-96. 13 Hilton E, Rindos P, Isenberg H. Lactobacillus GG vaginal suppositories and vaginitis. J Clinical Microbiology. 1995; 33 (5): 1433. 14 Keller Van Slyke K, Michel V, Rein M. Treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis with boric acid powder. Am J Ob/Gyn 1981;141:145-148. 15 Jovanovic R, Congema E, Nguyen H. Antifungal boric acid for treating chronic mycotic vulvovaginitis. Journal of Reproductive Medicine 1991;36(8):593-597. 16 Sobel J, Chaim W, Nagappan V, Leaman D. Treatment of vaginitis caused by Candida glabrata: Use of topical boric acid and fulcytosine. Am J Ob/Gyn 2003;189:1297-1300.
Posts: 503 | From Maryland | Registered: Oct 2007
| IP: Logged |
cottonbrain
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13769
posted
bumping this up so folks can see what fuzzy, lark, and psano added-- great info, thanks!
i wonder if Yeast Info would be a good topic for a "sticky?" -- it's probably covered in bettyg's newbie info?
Posts: 1173 | From USA | Registered: Nov 2007
| IP: Logged |
The Lyme Disease Network is a non-profit organization funded by individual donations. If you would like to support the Network and the LymeNet system of Web services, please send your donations to:
The
Lyme Disease Network of New Jersey 907 Pebble Creek Court,
Pennington,
NJ08534USA http://www.lymenet.org/
UBBFriend: Email this page to someone!
![[lol]](graemlins/lol.gif)
![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
Printer-friendly view of this topic