What are the common causes of vaginal dryness. How can medical conditions impact vaginal lubrication. Why do lifestyle habits affect vaginal moisture. How does stress influence vaginal health. What role does menopause play in vaginal dryness. Which medications can lead to vaginal dryness. How can vaginal dryness be treated effectively.

Understanding Vaginal Dryness: More Common Than You Think

Vaginal dryness is a condition that affects many women, yet it’s often shrouded in misconceptions and embarrassment. Contrary to popular belief, difficulty getting wet doesn’t necessarily indicate a lack of arousal. In fact, there are numerous reasons why a woman might experience vaginal dryness, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle factors.

This article aims to shed light on the various causes of vaginal dryness, dispel myths, and provide valuable insights into this common yet often misunderstood issue. By understanding the underlying factors, women can take proactive steps towards addressing vaginal dryness and improving their overall sexual health.

Medical Conditions and Their Impact on Vaginal Lubrication

Several medical conditions can contribute to vaginal dryness. These include:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the vagina, leading to reduced lubrication.
• Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy may cause a decrease in estrogen production, affecting vaginal moisture.
• Yeast infections: These can disrupt the vaginal flora balance, potentially causing dryness alongside other symptoms like itching and irritation.
• Thyroid disorders: Hormonal imbalances associated with thyroid issues can impact vaginal health.
• Immune system disorders: Certain autoimmune conditions may affect vaginal lubrication.
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Some STDs can cause inflammation and dryness in the vaginal area.

Do yeast infections always cause vaginal dryness? While yeast infections can contribute to vaginal dryness, it’s not a universal symptom. Some women may experience increased discharge during a yeast infection, while others might notice dryness. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Lifestyle Habits That May Contribute to Vaginal Dryness

Our daily habits can significantly impact our body’s functions, including vaginal health. Here are some lifestyle factors that may contribute to vaginal dryness:

1. Smoking: Nicotine can decrease blood circulation, making it challenging for the vagina to produce adequate lubrication.
2. Douching: This practice can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, potentially leading to dryness.
3. Using water-based lubricants: While these are often recommended, some women may find them drying over time.
4. Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can affect overall body hydration, including vaginal moisture.
5. Excessive alcohol consumption: This can lead to dehydration and hormonal imbalances, potentially impacting vaginal health.

Can changing lifestyle habits improve vaginal moisture? Absolutely. Making positive changes such as quitting smoking, staying hydrated, and avoiding harsh hygiene practices can significantly improve vaginal health and lubrication.

The Connection Between Mental Health and Vaginal Dryness

Mental health plays a crucial role in sexual function and overall well-being. Stress, anxiety, and depression can have far-reaching effects on the body, including vaginal health.

How Stress Affects Vaginal Lubrication

When under stress, the body releases cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone.” Elevated cortisol levels can interfere with the production of sex hormones, potentially leading to vaginal dryness. Moreover, stress can make it difficult to relax and become aroused, further exacerbating the issue.

Depression and Its Impact on Sexual Health

Depression can significantly decrease libido and natural sex drive. This reduced interest in sexual activity may lead to less frequent arousal, potentially contributing to vaginal dryness over time. Additionally, some antidepressant medications can have side effects that include vaginal dryness.

Is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) effective in treating stress-related vaginal dryness? CBT can be a valuable tool in managing stress and anxiety, which may indirectly improve vaginal health. By addressing underlying mental health issues, women may experience improvements in their overall sexual function, including lubrication.

Menopause and Perimenopause: Natural Causes of Vaginal Dryness

As women age, hormonal changes can significantly impact vaginal health. Menopause and perimenopause are natural life stages that often bring about changes in vaginal lubrication.

Understanding Menopause-Related Vaginal Dryness

During menopause, estrogen levels in the body naturally decline. This decrease in estrogen can lead to thinning of vaginal tissues and reduced ability to produce lubrication. Many women experience vaginal dryness as one of the first symptoms of menopause.

Perimenopause and Its Effects on Vaginal Health

Perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause, can also cause fluctuations in hormone levels. These hormonal changes may result in intermittent vaginal dryness, even before full menopause sets in.

Are there effective treatments for menopause-related vaginal dryness? Yes, several options are available. These include hormone replacement therapy, vaginal estrogen creams, and over-the-counter lubricants. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment based on individual health factors and preferences.

Medications That Can Cause Vaginal Dryness

While medications are often necessary for treating various health conditions, some can have unintended effects on vaginal health. Here are some common medications known to potentially cause vaginal dryness:

• Antihistamines: These can reduce mucus production throughout the body, including in the vagina.
• Accutane: This acne medication can affect oil production in various parts of the body.
• Antidepressants: Particularly SSRIs, which can impact libido and vaginal lubrication.
• Birth control pills: Low-dose pills may decrease estrogen levels, affecting vaginal moisture.
• Blood pressure medications: Some may interfere with sexual arousal and lubrication.
• Chemotherapy drugs: These can affect hormone production and overall vaginal health.

Should you stop taking medication if it’s causing vaginal dryness? Never discontinue prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider. If you suspect your medication is causing vaginal dryness, discuss your concerns with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage, switch to an alternative medication, or recommend additional treatments to address the dryness.

Effective Treatments and Solutions for Vaginal Dryness

Fortunately, there are numerous ways to address vaginal dryness, regardless of its cause. Here are some effective treatments and solutions:

Over-the-Counter Options

1. Vaginal moisturizers: These products are designed to be used regularly, not just during sexual activity.
2. Water-based lubricants: These can provide immediate relief during sexual activity.
3. Silicone-based lubricants: These tend to last longer than water-based options.
4. Natural oils: Some women find relief with coconut oil or olive oil, though these should not be used with condoms.

Prescription Treatments

• Vaginal estrogen creams: These can help restore vaginal tissue health.
• Estrogen rings or tablets: These provide localized hormone therapy.
• Systemic hormone replacement therapy: This may be recommended for women experiencing other menopausal symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can help improve vaginal health:

• Staying hydrated
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
• Avoiding harsh soaps and douching
• Engaging in regular sexual activity or self-stimulation to improve blood flow

How long does it take to see improvements in vaginal dryness with treatment? The timeline can vary depending on the cause and chosen treatment. Some women may experience relief within a few days of using lubricants or moisturizers, while hormonal treatments may take several weeks to show significant improvement. Consistency in treatment and patience are key to achieving optimal results.

When to Seek Professional Help for Vaginal Dryness

While vaginal dryness is often a manageable condition, there are instances when it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider. Consider seeking professional help if:

• Over-the-counter treatments aren’t providing relief
• You’re experiencing pain during sexual intercourse
• There’s persistent itching, burning, or unusual discharge
• You suspect an underlying medical condition
• Vaginal dryness is significantly impacting your quality of life or relationships

A healthcare provider, particularly a gynecologist, can perform a thorough examination, run necessary tests, and provide personalized treatment options. They can also help rule out more serious conditions that may be causing vaginal dryness.

What should you expect during a medical consultation for vaginal dryness? During your visit, the healthcare provider will likely ask about your medical history, current medications, and symptoms. They may perform a pelvic exam and possibly take samples for testing. Based on their findings, they can recommend appropriate treatments or further investigations if needed.

The Importance of Open Communication About Vaginal Health

Discussing vaginal health can be uncomfortable for many women, but it’s crucial for overall well-being and satisfying intimate relationships. Here’s why open communication is essential:

With Healthcare Providers

Being honest and detailed about your symptoms helps healthcare providers make accurate diagnoses and recommend effective treatments. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns during medical appointments.

With Partners

If vaginal dryness is affecting your intimate relationships, discussing it with your partner can lead to better understanding and support. It can also help in exploring alternative forms of intimacy or incorporating lubricants into your routine.

Breaking the Stigma

By speaking openly about vaginal health, we contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding these issues. This openness can encourage other women to seek help and information when needed.

How can you start a conversation about vaginal dryness with your partner? Choose a comfortable, private setting and a time when you’re both relaxed. Be honest about your experiences and feelings, and approach the topic as a shared concern that you can address together. Remember, vaginal dryness is a common and treatable condition, not a reflection of your desirability or the strength of your relationship.

Dispelling Myths About Vaginal Dryness

There are many misconceptions surrounding vaginal dryness that can lead to unnecessary worry or shame. Let’s address some common myths:

Myth 1: Vaginal dryness only affects older women

While it’s true that vaginal dryness is more common during and after menopause, women of all ages can experience it. Factors like hormonal birth control, breastfeeding, and certain medications can cause dryness in younger women.

Myth 2: Vaginal dryness means you’re not attracted to your partner

Vaginal lubrication doesn’t always correlate with sexual arousal or attraction. Many physical and psychological factors can affect lubrication, regardless of desire.

Myth 3: Using lubricants means there’s something wrong with you

Lubricants are a normal and healthy addition to sexual activity for many people, regardless of age or health status. They can enhance pleasure and comfort for everyone involved.

Myth 4: Vaginal dryness is untreatable

There are numerous effective treatments available for vaginal dryness, ranging from over-the-counter products to prescription medications and lifestyle changes.

Can vaginal dryness be completely cured? While some causes of vaginal dryness can be fully resolved, others may require ongoing management. However, with proper treatment and care, most women can find significant relief and improvement in their symptoms, leading to a better quality of life and more enjoyable intimate experiences.

Preventive Measures for Maintaining Vaginal Health

While not all causes of vaginal dryness can be prevented, there are steps you can take to maintain overall vaginal health and potentially reduce the risk of dryness:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall body hydration.
2. Practice good hygiene: Use mild, unscented soaps and avoid douching, which can disrupt the natural vaginal balance.
3. Wear breathable underwear: Choose cotton or other natural fibers to allow air circulation.
4. Manage stress: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga into your routine.
5. Maintain a healthy diet: Consume foods rich in vitamins A and E, which support vaginal health.
6. Exercise regularly: Physical activity promotes overall health and can improve blood circulation.
7. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption: These habits can negatively impact vaginal health.
8. Use protection during sexual activity: This helps prevent STDs that could lead to vaginal issues.

Is there a specific diet that can improve vaginal health and prevent dryness? While no single diet can guarantee prevention of vaginal dryness, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall health, including vaginal health. Some studies suggest that foods high in phytoestrogens, such as soy products, may be beneficial for vaginal health, especially for women experiencing menopause-related dryness. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

The Role of Regular Check-ups in Managing Vaginal Health

Regular gynecological check-ups play a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health and addressing issues like dryness before they become severe. Here’s why these check-ups are important:

• Early detection: Regular exams can catch potential issues early, when they’re often easier to treat.
• Personalized advice: Your healthcare provider can offer tailored recommendations based on your individual health profile and lifestyle.
• Monitoring changes: Regular check-ups allow your provider to track changes in your vaginal health over time.
• Opportunity for discussion: These visits provide a chance to ask questions and discuss any concerns about your vaginal health.
• Preventive care: Your provider can offer preventive measures and screenings to maintain overall reproductive health.

How often should you have a gynecological check-up? The frequency of check-ups can vary depending on age, health status, and risk factors. Generally, it’s recommended that women have annual gynecological exams. However, some women may need more frequent visits, while others might be advised to come in every two to three years. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for the check-up schedule that’s best for you.

By understanding the various causes of vaginal dryness, dispelling myths, and taking proactive steps towards vaginal health, women can effectively manage this common condition. Remember, vaginal dryness is nothing to be embarrassed about – it’s a normal health concern that can be addressed with proper care and treatment. If you’re experiencing persistent vaginal dryness or have concerns about your vaginal health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance and support.

5 Reasons You’re Experiencing Vaginal Dryness

Many stereotypes surrounding intercourse have clouded the general population’s understanding of normal performing bodies and healthy sex functions. Vaginal dryness is more common than one may think, rarely harmful, and can be treated in several different ways.   

Just because you can’t get wet before or during sex does not necessarily mean you aren’t turned on. The list of reasons that have nothing to do with lack of arousal goes on and on. Here at Raleigh OB/GYN, our goal is to separate fact from fiction and give proper education on why your body reacts the way it does in certain situations. Read below to learn 5 reasons you may be experiencing vaginal dryness.  

Medical Conditions

One main reason you may be experiencing vaginal dryness is due to underlying medical conditions. Diabetes which can result in high blood sugars can cause damage to the blood vessels in your vagina, leading to a lack of lubrication. Chemotherapy, a cancer treatment, may cause a loss of estrogen production in your ovaries, contributing to vaginal dryness.  

Yeast infections are a medical infection that can interfere with your ability to get wet, as they disrupt the balance of flora in the vagina. Other symptoms that often accompany yeast infections include itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva, a burning sensation, or a vaginal rash. Other medical conditions that can lead to vaginal dryness include thyroid disorders, immune system disorders, and even STDs.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Engaging in unhealthy lifestyle habits has a track record of contributing to several underlying illnesses or problems, vaginal dryness included. Nicotine and smoking cigarettes are directly linked to increased difficulty in getting wet. According to Women’s Health Mag, vaginal lubrication results from increased blood flow to the vagina. Smoking causes a decrease in circulation of blood flow, making it challenging to become lubricated. Douching and water-based lube also may contribute to you being drier than usual.

Stress And Mental Health

Anxiety, stress, and depression are demons of their own but can also host several side effects. It is easy to become distracted during stressful times, making it challenging to be fully present, especially in the bedroom. Hopkins Medicine suggests a primary symptom of anxiety and depression is a decrease in your libido or natural sex drive. A common way to try and combat low libido and depression includes therapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy.    

Menopause Or Perimenopause

Although not something many women look forward to, menopause is inevitable and often comes with some whacky and unpleasant side effects. The Mayo Clinic suggests that during menopause, your vaginal tissues become thinner and easily irritated, resulting from the natural decline in your body’s estrogen levels. Similarly, perimenopause is the time around menopause when your body begins to make the natural transition to menopause. Both menopause and perimenopause can decrease your natural vaginal lubrication. 

Certain Medications

Although some medications are necessary for our overall well-being, certain ones can mess with bodily functions. A few medications known to hinder your ability to get wet include antihistamines, Accutane, and antidepressants. Anti-depressants, specifically, can directly impact your sex drive through a decrease of estrogen. Additionally, birth control pills can affect lubrication in a way similar to antidepressants, as a low-dose birth control pill can decrease levels of estrogen in the body.

There are many reasons you may be experiencing vaginal dryness, both psychological and physiological. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to go about treatments and resolving the underlying issue at hand. If you have any concerns with vaginal lubrication or any other questions regarding sexual intercourse, give Raleigh OB/GYN a call at 919-876-8225 or request an appointment.

Vaginal Itching & Dryness: Common Causes & Treatments

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Common causes of vaginal irritation and home remedies that OB/GYN doctors recommend

Vaginal itching affects nearly every woman at some point, and while for some it’s simply an uncomfortable nuisance, for others it signals a more serious underlying health issue. In most cases, however, alleviating vaginal itching is as simple as identifying and treating the cause.

Vaginal itching, burning and discharge can be caused by many different aggravating factors such as irritating substances, infections, skin disorders, sexually transmitted diseases (STD) or even menopause. If your OB/GYN doctor find that your vaginal itching is a result of one of the following common causes, there is most likely an easy treatment or fix.

Skin conditions like psoriasis can also affect the vagina and vulva, but since this fact isn’t well-known, women may be aware of their skin condition but never make the connection to their vaginal itching.

Vaginal Itching Due To Chemical Irritants

Like itching in other areas, vaginal itching is often the result of exposure to an irritant. In this case, any soap or chemical product you use on your vagina or vulva — or on clothing that touches the area — can cause irritation.

Sometimes the culprit is something obvious, like a new lubricant or spermicide. Other times the itching is actually the result of the detergent or fabric softener used on clothing. Even a douche, which is actually used to cleanse the vagina, can cause irritation for some women. This is one of the many reasons why you should avoid douching.

If your vaginal itching is a fairly new development, look at any products you’ve started using recently. Have you switched to a new brand of contraceptive foam or spermicidal condom? Are you using a different brand of detergent or fabric softener in your laundry? If so, the newly introduced chemical may be the culprit.

When your vaginal itching is persistent over a long period of time, irritants may still be to blame. If itching is your only symptom, try changing the products you use for contraception, cleansing and laundry.

For lubricant, consider trying a fragrance-free, water-based lubricant or coconut oil (if you aren’t using condoms). Use polyisoprene (latex-free) condoms to see if you have a latex allergy.

Sometimes the chemicals found in soap can cause vaginal irritation as well. Buy fragrance-free soap without perfume and only use it on the outside of the vulva. The interior of your vagina is self-cleaning and using soap or douching may disrupt its natural, healthy bacteria balance.

Also avoid vaginal wipes or deodorants.

Be sure to only change one product at a time so that you can correctly identify the cause of the issue.

Vaginal Itching as a Symptom of an Underlying Issue

When vaginal itching isn’t the result of an irritant or dryness, there may be another underlying cause that needs to be identified and treated.

Yeast Infections: Yeast infections are commonplace for many women, as evidenced by easy access to over-the-counter medication. Itching is a primary symptom of yeast infections, which can usually be treated quite effectively by your OB/GYN doctor once properly diagnosed.

Sexually Transmitted Illnesses: Nearly all sexually transmitted illnesses can cause vaginal itching. This includes chlamydia, gonorrhea and genital herpes, as well as cases of human papillomavirus (HPV) that present with other symptoms like vaginal warts (symptoms are not always present with HPV).

If your vaginal itching is a symptom of a sexually transmitted infection, most often treating the illness can help with the itching. The approach, however, depends on the illness itself. Chlamydia, for example, can usually be treated successfully with antibiotics. Herpes on the other hand is a chronic illness, so treatment usually focuses on alleviating symptoms.

Bacterial Vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis is a fairly common condition in which the natural bacteria in the vagina can begin to over-produce, resulting in itching and vaginal discharge.

Many women become concerned by the somewhat troubling symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. In most cases though, antibiotics and other medications will return the vagina’s bacteria balance to normal. Bacterial vaginosis may also subside naturally.

To prevent bacterial vaginosis, consider taking a Pro-B Probiotic supplement, which has been clinically shown to help balance yeast and bacteria in the body.

Itching Caused by Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness can result in many cases of itching, both external and internal. Hormonal shifts during menopause, as well as douching and certain medications, can dry up vaginal mucus. That dryness can result in itching and other uncomfortable symptoms.

In cases where vaginal dryness results from menopause or other hormone-related issues, estrogen — in the form of a cream, tablet or inserted ring — is the most common treatment. Most women find these approaches very effective in alleviating dryness and itching. If you believe you are experiencing vaginal itching caused by hormones, see our article on vaginal atrophy.

For those whose dryness and itching comes from an external source or lifestyle factors, your doctor may recommend you stop douching or, if possible, change medications. Dabbing a little bit of vaseline petroleum jelly, coconut oil or even Crisco vegetable shortening on the dry skin area can also help heal itching.

Other Causes of Vaginal Itching

Some less common causes of vaginal itching include pre-cancerous cells and a parasitic infection called “pinworms.” Skin conditions like psoriasis can also affect the vagina and vulva, but since this fact isn’t well-known, women may be aware of their skin condition but never make the connection to their vaginal itching.

When to Contact Your OB/GYN Doctor

If your vaginal itching is persistent and you can’t connect it to any of the potential irritants listed here, you should schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN to make sure you aren’t dealing with something more serious.

Most importantly, you should never self-diagnose.

Many women assume their vaginal irritation is the result of a yeast infection and buy over-the-counter medications without getting a proper diagnosis. While there’s no evidence that this approach will cause you any harm, it also won’t help alleviate your itching, and may delay diagnosis of a more serious health issue.

Your best bet when experiencing vaginal itching, especially when it is accompanied by other symptoms like discharge or warts, is to contact your OB/GYN or well woman care physician.

If you’re in Gainesville, Lake City or surrounding areas of northern Florida, we invite you to contact our highly experienced, compassionate team of well woman care physicians & nurses at All About Women to schedule an appointment today.

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Itching and burning in the vagina: causes and treatment

Unpleasant sensations cause itching and burning in the vagina in women, and throughout her life she experiences them more than once. The nature of this ailment can be different: from a common cold to serious infectious diseases.

If you ignore itching, pain, thinking that everything will go away by itself, then you can achieve that extensive pustules appear around the scratches and wounds, the tissues become inflamed, and you will have to go to the gynecologist with a much more serious problem.

In this situation, you should not rely on folk methods, because self-treatment can achieve the opposite effect. “SM-Clinic” uses modern methods of treatment, thanks to which many women completely got rid of itching in the vagina.

Itching in the female genital area does not necessarily mean some kind of infectious disease of the genital organs, and can occur as a manifestation of serious disorders in the body. Only after passing a series of thorough examinations at the SM-Clinic in Moscow, you can make an accurate diagnosis.

Manifestations such as cheesy discharge, or yellowish-green discharge with an unpleasant odor, constant pain in the lower abdomen, dryness of the mucous membrane should alert the woman, because the cause of these symptoms may be thrush, an allergic reaction to a particular product, a sexually transmitted disease or a banal cold.

Gynecological diseases resulting in itching

Pathogenic microorganisms can cause severe itching in the vaginal area. Moreover, in the minimum amount in the female microflora there are different bacteria, but with the development of the inflammatory process, they become very numerous, and in this case, serious treatment is indispensable.

Vulvaginitis, colpitis

Characteristic feature: discharge with the smell of rotten fish. Most often, these diseases are caused by the active reproduction of gardnerella, Escherichia coli or cocci. There is an itch in the vagina, the treatment of which requires more than one day.

Candidiasis

Candida yeast in moderate amounts does not cause inflammation, but their growth leads to such an unpleasant disease as candidiasis. In the people it has another name – thrush. The disease is characterized by such signs as a feeling of constant burning and severe itching, pain in the lower abdomen, and during water procedures a woman observes a large amount of curdled discharge.

Allergic reaction

Rarely, but it happens that a girl has an allergic reaction to a man’s sperm, if barrier methods of contraception from unwanted pregnancy were previously used, and the sperm did not enter the vagina. This phenomenon is extremely rare, but still occurs. “SM-Clinic” successfully treats such an ailment.

Infectious diseases

The disease caused by infection goes through an acute stage, and if no methods of treatment were used, it becomes chronic, when redness and itching can disappear, causing the illusion of a complete recovery. But, in fact, the infection moves deeper into the internal organs and “dozes”, waiting for the next provoking factor in the form of a decrease in immunity or a serious illness.

A woman who has not taken any measures for her recovery continues to be a carrier of the infection, infecting men through sexual contact.

Serious sexually transmitted diseases include:

• chlamydia;
• ureaplasmosis;
• trichomoniasis;
• genital warts;
• warts in the genital area;
• genital herpes.

Urethritis, cervititis, endometritis are inflammatory processes of the genital organs resulting from infection.

In older women, itching in the vagina can occur as a result of urogenital fistulas, benign or malignant neoplasms, mucosal atrophy, etc.

Other causes

Itching in the vagina can be caused by causes that are not related to infectious and gynecological diseases.

This:

• general overwork of the body;
• severe intoxication;
• infestation with pubic lice and worms;
• diseases of the digestive tract;
• wearing tight underwear made of synthetic materials;
• sudden temperature changes;
• depression and severe stress;
• eating disorders;
• local allergy to shower gel, soap with a certain composition;
• drug allergy.

In order for the vaginal area to stop itching, you should try to avoid provoking factors. After a few days, if the discomfort does not disappear, it makes sense to consult a doctor. It is worth avoiding frequent changes of sexual partners – promiscuity can cause many diseases.

It is often possible to relieve symptoms by taking drugs that increase immunity, dosed physical activity, proper nutrition and autogenic training. If you find yourself in a strong inflammation, you should not resort to a method such as douching, because in this case the disease continues to “sleep” untouched inside the body, and the vaginal microflora is disturbed.

The attending gynecologist of the SM-Clinic will prescribe antibiotics and the use of vaginal suppositories. Self-medication is fraught with sad consequences. A timely visit to our clinic guarantees you complete relief from itching and other diseases associated with the genital area.

Fungal diseases of the ears: diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, occurrence

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Otomycosis – inflammatory diseases of the ears resulting from damage by microscopic parasitic fungi (yeasts of the genus Candida, molds of the genus Aspergillus, Penicillium, actinomycetes, dermatophytes). As a rule, infection occurs through the external auditory meatus. Under the action of pathogens, an inflammatory reaction occurs, which is accompanied by pain, congestion and tinnitus, hearing impairment, and the appearance of pathological discharge.

Symptoms

Types of otomycosis

Causes

Complications

Signs of fungal inflammation differ depending on the localization of the inflammatory process.

For otomycosis of the outer ear , the initial stage is characterized by dryness, peeling and itching in the ear canal, ear congestion and hearing problems. As inflammation develops, swelling, redness, severe pain and copious discharge appear, which almost completely fill the ear canal and provoke the development of hearing loss. The inflammatory response can cause inflammation and enlargement of the regional lymph nodes, maxillary joint, and parotid gland.

Otomycosis of the middle ear often develops against the background of a purulent infection, accompanied by discharge without a characteristic odor, decreased sensitivity and hearing. As inflammation develops, symptoms of intoxication may appear: fever, chills, fever, weakness and aching joints. Inflammation in the middle ear, especially for a long time, is dangerous with various complications: the appearance of adhesions, perforation and scarring of the tympanic membrane, irreversible hearing loss.

Otomycosis of the tympanic membrane leads to significant hearing loss, significant discharge, severe pain and sensation of a foreign body in the ear.

According to localization, the inflammation can occur in the outer or inner parts of the ear, eardrum, or it can become a complication of the operation and affect the operated area.

In countries with a hot and humid climate, fungal diseases are diagnosed more often, but even in the temperate zone, up to 10% of patients are susceptible to otomycosis.

Among the causes of infection are:

• various ear injuries;
• improper hygiene of the auricles, or completely absent hygienic care of the ears;
• dermatological diseases – eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, accompanied by itching of the auricle;
• anatomical anomalies of the organ of hearing – the narrowness of the ear canal, hyperplasia of the tissues of the temporal bone, etc. ;
• complications of inflammatory diseases of the nasopharynx;
• disturbances in the balance of the microflora of the organ of hearing;
• severe allergic reaction;
• diabetes mellitus;
• prolonged treatment with antibiotics or hormones resulting in weakened immunity;
• constant stress;
• using someone else’s headphones, earplugs, headset, etc.

The most dangerous complication of otomycosis is damage to the auditory nerve and permanent hearing loss.

Diagnosis of a fungal disease of the ear

The presence of inflammation is detected during examination of the ear parts using otoscopy and based on patient complaints. To establish the cause of inflammation, a microscopic and bacteriological examination of the pathological discharge is carried out to identify the causative agent of the disease and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics.

Prevention and treatment of otomycosis

Treatment of the disease is aimed at eliminating the cause of inflammation and includes taking antifungal drugs, washing the ear canal with antimycotic solutions, putting creams and ointments into the ear canal.