Prednisone, Yeast and Thrush

December 20, 2003

Prednisone is a cortisteroid that plays havoc with the glucose (blood

sugar) balance in the blood. It increases the sugar level dramatically.

After being on prednisone for a long period, some people will even

develop diabetes.

Taking cortisteroid in ANY form .. whether it be in prednisone, Medrol,

pill form or the injectable IV form .. causes the glucose in the blood

to increase. When your glucose is elevated, the natural yeast in your

body then has something to feed upon .. elevated sugar levels is like

having high-energy food for yeast.

Yeast infections are common in people who take prednisone. It may appear

in a number of forms. As a vaginal yeast infection, as thrush in the

mouth, as a rash on the arms and legs, as a filmy type of dandruff on

the scalp, or may even appear in the lungs (will show up in lung /

sputum tests). Vaginal yeast infections are common while taking

prednisone.

With the inhaled steroids, you can help to avoid the mouth version of

infection by rinsing after every use of your inhaler. Avoid eating foods

high in sugar while taking prednisone.

Thrush is a yeast infection that shows up in the mouth and throat. Small

white spots appear first. Then the spots join up together to form larger

spots that are sensitive to the touch, or when eating acidic foods.

Small painful lesions on the skin of the inner cheeks, the tongue, and

down the throat may also appear.

Acidophilus creates good bacteria. While taking antibiotics, you can

prevent a yeast infection by eating three servings of acidophilus yogurt

each day or by taking acidophilus supplements.

Direct application of diluted natural apple cider vinegar can relieve

painful, itchy symptoms in one or two applications. (One part apple

cider vinegar to 3 parts water)

There are several medications that can help to keep the yeast under

control. Some are in a rinse and gargle form, while others are in pill

form.

I myself do quite well on Diflucan.

" Rion "

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