Archive for the ‘Infections’ Category
Swine flu (2009 H1N1 flu) is a viral infection that causes a range of symptoms similar to the seasonal flu and was initially transmitted from pigs to humans. The virus is a mutation of the type A influenza virus from humans and birds and most of the cases we now see is due to person to person transmission. While the media hype around swine flu and deaths due to the infection continue to create widespread concern, the reality is that in a healthy person, swine flu is not the deadly virus that it is portrayed as.
Candida infections of the human body are not common as this species of fungi (yeast) usually occur in small populations on the skin and within the cavities – mouth, intestines and vagina. However under certain conditions, an yeast overgrowth may occur allowing the candida to switch from a harmless microorganism to an invading pathogen.
A persistent itching sensation within the ear canal is often a sign of inflammation or infection within the ear canal. Excessive cleaning, especially with an ear bud (cue tip) removes the natural wax from the ear canal. This wax is often thought to be dirt but is actually the body’s natural mechanism for lubricating the ear canal and preventing insects or microorganisms from entering the ear canal or causing an infection.
A fungus under the breast is more common than reported and is prevalent in women with large busts who live in hot and humid (tropical) climates. The fungal infection arises due to a combination of factors and is referred to as submammary candidiasis. These infections are often caused by yeast-like fungi (candida) or mold-like fungi (dermatophytes or skin fungus referred to as tinea infections), although a breast fungus is usually a result of a candida infection.