An untreated yeast infection has the potential to become much more severe and spread to other parts of the body, such as inside the mouth and in patches on the skin, depending on where it originated. It may also weaken the immune system, which might make the person carrying the infection more susceptible to other illnesses. Yeast infections can potentially be passed to partners during sexual intercourse. Sexually active people with untreated yeast infections may increase their chances of spreading the infection to someone else. It might be possible for an untreated yeast infection to clear up on its own without treatment, but it will most likely get much worse before it gets better.
Even if an untreated yeast infection goes away without treatment, there is a chance it will recur. A recurring problem with yeast is often the result of a previous untreated yeast infection that never completely went away, although the symptoms may have disappeared. Small amounts of yeast might still be present, and the infection could spread again as soon as conditions are favorable. Yeast infections often get started whenever the body's pH levels are thrown off course. Some things that can affect pH are antibiotic use, pregnancy, and obesity.
Yeast infections in the mouth are also known as thrush, and most often affect babies and elderly people. These infections are often described as white patches inside the mouth, and the lesions are typically painful when touched. Trying to wipe or rub them off may cause them to bleed. Doctors often prescribe a topical ointment called nystatin to cure thrush in babies. This medicine is also generally effective on adults with thrush, but it might be necessary to use it in conjunction with an anti-fungal pill to completely get rid of the infection.
A yeast infection on the skin can be a problem for anyone, particularly if the person wears damp clothing on any part of the body for too long. Babies are often susceptible to yeast infections on the skin due to wearing diapers. When babies go for long periods of time without diaper changes, their delicate skin is exposed to extreme dampness and a rash may develop. Many parents mistakenly assume the redness is from basic diaper rash until they notice their rash cream is ineffective against it. A visit to the doctor often confirms that the rash is yeast, and anti-fungal medication is usually prescribed to treat it.