Reminders When Taking A Yeast Infection Medicine
Most infection medicines and creams are sold over the counter, which means you dont need a doctors prescription to buy them. However, its not advisable to proceed with treatment without your doctors signal.
This is because you need to make sure first that youre dealing with yeast infection and not another condition.
Case in point: many women, upon noticing some symptoms, immediately assume they have a yeast infection and buy a yeast infection cream. To their surprise, they dont get better. Upon their medical check-up, the doctor informs them its not a yeast infection but bacterial vaginosis. While they have similarities, bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection require different treatment strategies.
Another problem with self-medicating is resistance. People who receive yeast infection medicines when they dont have a fungal infection may become resistant to the drug. This is problematic since they may not respond well to the medicine should they actually develop the infection.
Common Conditions Often Mistaken For A Yeast Infection
. But that doesnât necessarily mean weâre good at telling the difference between a yeast infection and other vaginal conditions. In fact, one study showed that only about a third of folks were correct in diagnosing themselves with a yeast infection.
Below are eight common conditions that are often mistaken for a yeast infection, plus guidance on how to tell whether they may be the cause of your symptoms. And remember â if your discharge and itchiness are causing you concern, then itâs best to get checked out by a doctor.
Probiotics For Yeast Infection
Probiotics for yeast infection treatment is not yet proven. Some people believe that since probiotics add to the number of good bacteria in the body, it helps keep the amount of yeast in check, too.
Doctors say we need more studies to determine if probiotics actually help against yeast infection, but they agree that for most people, theres no harm in adding some into their diet.
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Are Yeast Infections Contagious
One of the most common questions concerning yeast infections is if its contagious. According to experts, they are not really contagious, but they can be transmitted.
This means people can get yeast or fungi from person to person contact, however, getting the fungi doesnt necessarily mean youll develop an infection, too.
Like mentioned earlier, we normally have yeast in our body, so getting it from another person is usually not a problem, especially if we have a strong immune system capable of thwarting off an overgrowth.
An infection becomes possible when the person is already prone to developing it, such as when he or she has diabetes, an autoimmune disorder, or has inadequate good bacteria to balance out the yeast.
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Speaking of which, two out of three women who buy don’t really have a yeast infection, according to the . Over time, your body can become resistant to the treatment, making it that much harder to fight a legit yeast infection in the future. If you self-treat a yeast infection and don’t see results within a few days or your symptoms return within a month, it’s either a sign you’re resisting the medsor that you’re treating the wrong condition, says Pizarro. It’s important to visit your gyno in either scenario so you can be treated properly.
It’s called thrush, and it’s just as nasty as it sounds. The yeast overgrowth causes cottage cheese-like lesions that can take over your mouthtongue, cheeks, and gumsnot to mention mess with your esophagus and make it über painful to swallow. Luckily, says Pizarro, thrush can be treated with a prescription of anti-fungal lozenges called troches.
This is not a drill: According to the , women whose blood-sugar levels are out-of-whack are more likely to develop a yeast infection. When your blood-glucose level is high, the excess sugar increases the likelihood of and repeat infections. Pizarro recommends women with three or more yeast infections a year make an appointment to rule out diabetes or other serious conditions.
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What Is A Yeast Infection
We normally have a limited, controlled number of yeast in our bodies. However, there are instances when the yeast multiplies uncontrollably in a particular body part or they enter the supposedly microorganism-free bloodstream. In those instances, we say that there is a yeast infection.
A yeast infection happens when theres an overgrowth of yeast in a particular part of the body or they reach the normally sterile bloodstream. It can happen to anyone, but some people are more likely to develop it than others due to some risk factors.
The most common cause of yeast infections is the Candida fungus, particularly Candida albicans.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis Of The Butt
Allergic contact dermatitis means the skin has touched something that provoked an allergic reaction, causing inflammation and irritation.
“Contact” means the allergic reaction came from touching something, not from consuming something. The first exposure to the substance sensitizes the immune system, and then the second exposure actually causes the symptoms.
The most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis are:
- Nickel, a metal often used in belt buckles, the buttons on pants, and jewelry, including piercing jewelry.
- Various types of perfumes, including those founds in soaps, fabric softeners, and detergents.
- Of course, there are many more.
Symptoms include red, itching, scaling, flaking skin that may be painful due to the irritation and inflammation.
Diagnosis is made through first avoiding contact with any suspected substance, to see if the dermatitis clears. Patch testing can be done if the results are not certain.
Treatment involves fully avoiding the allergy-provoking substance and using topical steroid cream as prescribed. Cool compresses and calamine lotion can help to ease the discomfort.
Rarity: Common
Top Symptoms: butt itch, butt redness, scabbed area of the butt
Symptoms that always occur with allergic contact dermatitis of the butt: butt redness
Urgency: Self-treatment
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How Long Does A Yeast Infection Last
At this point, you must be wondering: how long does it last?
Reports say it typically clear within a few days of starting treatment. However, its possible for you to experience residual symptoms, such as itchiness and irritation, even after the infection is gone.
In case youre not still not feeling better a couple of days after completing your treatment, you need to go back to your doctor.
Yeast Infection Vs Uti
Theres quite a confusion between what a yeast infection is and how its different from urinary tract infections .
The best way to remember the difference between yeast infection vs UTI is to think of the microorganisms that cause them. Yeast infections happen due to yeast or fungi, while UTIs occur mostly due to bacteria.
Furthermore, UTIs lead to symptoms that generally affect the persons ability to pass urine while most cases of yeast infections lead to superficial symptoms
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What Causes Groin Infections
Groin infections can be caused by a fungus. A fungal infection of the groin can often be irritating to the skin and may be very painful or itchy. Fungal infections may be passed on from person to person, but this is not always the case.
Fungi like moist, warm places to infect, such as folds of skin. To prevent fungal infections the area should be kept clean and dry. It is a good idea to avoid sharing towels, bedding or clothes.
Additional Risks For Women
The use of oral contraceptives containing estrogen increases a womans risk of having an infection. Additionally, contraceptive devices, such as diaphragms, vaginal sponges, and intrauterine devices, heighten the probability as well. Yeast infection during pregnancy and breastfeeding are also more common.
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What About Recurring Yeast Infection
Experts say 5 to 8% of women experience recurring yeast infection, a condition characterized by developing the fungal infection at least four times a year.
If the doctor finds out you have recurring infections, they might give you a longer course of treatment consisting of several doses of one antifungal drug, followed by weekly doses for the next six months or so.
One important thing to note about recurring infections is that long-course treatment may prevent its symptoms, however, they might recur once treatment stops.
Yeast Infection In Women
It may occur in women in several ways, but the most common is vaginal yeast infection and breast or nipple thrush.
Vaginal infections or vulvovaginal candidiasis are common in fact, women may experience it a couple of times in their lifetime. Vaginal symptoms include:
- Redness in both the vaginal and vulva.
- Burning sensation during urination.
- Tiny cracks of cuts on the skin of the vulva.
Sometimes, vaginal yeast infection may also lead to pain during sexual intercourse.
Another way that it occurs in women is breast or nipple thrush. This condition is more common among nursing mothers and often leads to pain during breastfeeding. Due to the pain, some mothers are forced to stop breastfeeding their babies even when they still want to give them breast milk.
Common symptoms of breast or nipple thrush include:
- Nipple pain, which may feel worse when you take a shower.
- The appearance of rashes in the breast.
- Reduced milk supply for breastfeeding.
- Severe nipple or breast pain, that even light touch from the clothing hurts.
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Is It A Yeast Infection Or Something Else Four Conditions To Consider
Vaginal concerns can be a common occurrence. Sometimes the cause is obvious such as changes in menstrual cycle, sexual activity or a new product you may be using. Other times, the cause is not as clear.
Since many have had a yeast infection before it may be easy to assume your recurrent symptoms have the same cause, however that is not always the case.
A vaginal yeast infection is a common fungal infection that causes burning, itching, discharge and discomfort in the vulvar and vaginal areas, said Jennifer Nelson, DO, an internal medicine-pediatric specialist at Banner University Medicine Internal Medicine Clinic in Phoenix, AZ. Although its common, many other vaginal conditions can mimic a yeast infection but require different treatment. This is why its always important to discuss symptoms with your doctor to ensure that you are receiving the correct treatment.
As Dr. Nelson mentioned, there are a few common conditions that can be mistaken for yeast infections. She walked us through four other important vaginal health issues to consider when these symptoms arise.
An Allergic Reaction Or Sensitivity
Your vaginal area is sensitive, which means it may be sensitive to certain products you use.
As with other parts of the body, the vulvar and vaginal areas can develop a contact dermatitis reaction to detergents, lotions, soaps and creams that you use Dr. Nelson said. In addition, depending on what products you use, they can also alter the which can lead to increased risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis.
This kind of vaginal irritation is known as noninfectious vaginitis. It can cause itching and burning and vaginal discharge.
Treatment: Treating an allergic reaction or sensitivity will depend on whats causing the symptoms and then eliminating them to see if symptoms resolve. Sometimes short courses of steroid creams can help with the itching.
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How Do You Get A Yeast Infection
Everyone has small amounts of a yeast, or candida, on their skin and inside their digestive tracts. Healthy bacteria usually keep yeast from growing out of control. Yeast infections occur when these bacteria cant do their job.
If youre sick and need antibiotics, the drugs can kill healthy bacteria, allowing yeast to thrive, says family physician Matthew Goldman, MD.
It doesnt take much for these fungi to take over. Not showering after a workout, or wearing tight-fitting clothing that holds moisture close to the body can lead to a yeast infection, he says.
Because yeast feeds on sugar, people who have diabetes and uncontrolled high blood sugar are more prone to these infections.
When Should I Worry About A Yeast Infection
Generally, they are not life-threatening. People usually feel better after a few days of treatment. However, there are cases when the infection enters the normally sterile bloodstream and causes symptoms like fever and chills or respiratory problems. This could lead to a system-wide infection that needs more aggressive treatment
If you have symptoms of a yeast infection in any part of your body, set an appointment with a doctor.
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Hives & Candida Albicans
The possible relationship of Candida to hives was discussed in a study about the management of itching and hives. The study was published in the British Medical Journal . The study cites research that was done on patients with chronic hives. The cited study utilized 255 patients with chronic hives.
Testing revealed that 49 immediately reacted to C. albicans skin testing solution. Treatment with nystatin resulted in a clinical cure in 27 of the 49 patients. An additional 18 other patients, who reacted to C. albicans, were cured of hives only when they stuck to a yeast-free diet for several months.
Many of the patients in the cited research had developed hives after being treated with oral penicillin they had then been diagnosed as being allergic to penicillin. Yet, these patients did not react to intradermal testing with penicillin or to penicillin given intramuscularly.
In two of these patients, hives could be caused by the ingesting of 5mL of sterile C. albicans skin testing solution. The study states that allergies to C. albicans can cause chronic hives to occur.
A case is reported in the Journal of Orthomolecular Psychiatry regarding hives and asthma in relation to Candida. This research paper was written by Dr. C. Orian Truss.
Dr. Truss was often quoted by the late Dr. William Crook in his Yeast Connection book series. Dr. Crook was one of the pioneers of furthering the knowledge of “yeast related” health problems.
When To Contact A Medical Professional
Keep your genital area clean and dry when you have vaginitis.
- Avoid soap. Just rinse with water to clean yourself.
- Soak in a warm, not hot, bath to help your symptoms. Dry thoroughly afterward.
Other tips are:
- Avoid using hygiene sprays, fragrances, or powders in the genital area.
- Use pads instead of tampons while you have an infection.
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar level in good control.
Allow more air to reach your genital area. You can do this by:
- Wearing loose-fitting clothes and not wearing panty hose.
- Wearing cotton underwear or underwear that has a cotton lining in the crotch. Cotton allows normal evaporation of moisture so that moisture buildup is reduced.
- Not wearing underwear at night when you sleep.
Girls and women should also:
- Know how to properly clean their genital area while bathing or showering.
- Wipe properly after using the toilet. Always wipe from front to back.
- Wash thoroughly before and after using the toilet.
Always practice safe sex. Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading infections.
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Yeast Infection In Pregnancy
Is it safe to treat an infection during pregnancy? Generally, it is, as long as you use topical treatments or suppositories. Do not proceed with an oral infection medicine, like fluconazole, as it may lead to some birth defects.
An infection, like all conditions occurring in pregnancy, should only be handled and treated under the guidance of a doctor.
When To See A Provider For A Yeast Infection
While over-the-counter antifungal medications can effectively treat certain types of yeast infections, Dr. Goldman recommends seeing a healthcare provider to make sure fungi are the true cause of your symptoms.
With proper treatment, yeast infections clear up within a few days or weeks, he says. Untreated, yeast infections can last for months. In rare instances, a yeast infection can seep into your bloodstream and cause a life-threatening infection like sepsis.
You should also see your provider if yeast infections keep coming back after treatment. A blood test may show why youre more susceptible to yeast infections, says Dr. Goldman.
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Groin Or Vaginal Infection
Washing tips: Clean the area in warm water at least twice a day. Pat dry carefully and then apply any cream you have been given by your doctor or pharmacist.
Wash your hands before and after cleaning to prevent the spread of the infection. Also, do not share your face cloth or towel with others.
Creams: If you are using intravaginal creams or pessaries, youâll need to use menstrual pads rather than tampons.
Clothing: Change underwear daily and wear loose-fitting pants.
Pain relief: If you are in pain, get advice on medicines you can take.
Symptoms Of A Yeast Infection
The symptoms ovary slightly depending on where it happened, but generally, it involves a thrush, consisting of a white substance, or a red rash.
Case in point: thrush occurring in the mouth or throat presents with white, cottage cheese lesions. On the other hand, a yeast infection in your babys bottom may look like red rashes with reddish bumps or dots around the edges.
It may also occur in the navel or belly button area, as well as skin folds. Symptoms include itching and burning sensation, red rashes, pimples, and patches that ooze with clear discharge.
When a fungal infection happens in the nails, it usually presents with swelling, pain, and yellow or white nail that detaches or separates from the nailbed.
To describe the symptoms more clearly, lets talk about how men and women have it differently.
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