Question:
Any suggestions on how to exercize without creating yeast infections from rubbing?

I'm pre-op (DS), but I want to get into the habit of exercising now. I have foot trouble, so walking's out and you won't catch me dead in the local swimming pool. Normal bikes hurt me where I sit, so I bought a recumbent bike. I worked out on it for 15 minutes yesterday, and now I have a HUGE yeast infection beneath my belly from the rubbing & heat. I figure that as I start to lose the weight and my skin sags even more, the problem will just get worse until I'm ready for reconstruction. I really want to be able to exercise so I can optimize my weight loss, but how do I do it without setting my belly on fire? Help! Thanks.    — sarashalom (posted on September 30, 2005)

October 1, 2005
Yeast infections are not caused by rubbing. They are an infection where the candida (yeast) growth is rampant. Chances are you dont have a yeast infection, but rather a fungal infection. If it is the latter try Lotrimin cream over the counter and keep the area dry. Use a towel tucked into the area while exercising to avoid excess moisture and chaffing caused by the skin rubbing together. If you do indeed have a yeast infection you can get some monistat cream over the counter and do the same. That Diflucan pill also may work. Regardless of what you decide to do for treatment your Doctor needs to see the infection to document for future approval for reconstructive surgery. Even though you are pre-op it doesnt hurt to keep all your records. Also if insurance is slow to approve surgery this may be a qualifying condition. Good Luck and keep up the great work!!
   — Michelle B.

October 2, 2005
This is a problem I also have... My PCP suggested to use a monistat yeast infection cream on it-- works wonders overnight-- also if you use a feminine spray like FDS under there that seems to help too. Good Luck-- I am also pre-op-- for rny on Oct 12.
   — tynkris

October 2, 2005
I have that problem sometimes. What I did is get some old t-shirts, cut them into wide strips. Before you start exercising, put the t-shirt strip in the folds. That will help stop the rubbing and absorb the sweat. I hope this helps.
   — Melissa C.

October 5, 2005
HI there. I was once where you are now. I am 3 yrs post RNY. For the sore folds, shower, clean, and rinse. Pat dry. THen dose yourself up with medicated powder, gold bond is good, but the dollar store knock off is just as good! Eat more yogurt, low sugar yogurt even better. I used to not be able to walk 50 ft with out pain from foot and overall hurts arrying my weight!, pool is good exercise, but was only open in summer and took alot of courage for me to go! Have you ever tried Richard Simmons? Fun music, upbeat, and real people in his videos!! Just a suggestion. Hope I helped.
   — Jenny_B