Yeast infection with nausea. Yeast Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Potential Complications
What are the common symptoms of a yeast infection. How can you differentiate between yeast infections and other vaginal conditions. What treatment options are available for yeast infections. Can yeast infections lead to serious complications.
Understanding Vaginal Yeast Infections
Vaginal yeast infections are a common health concern affecting millions of women annually, especially during their reproductive years. These infections occur due to an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus naturally present in the vagina. While usually not serious, yeast infections can cause significant discomfort and require prompt treatment.
Common Causes of Yeast Infections
Several factors can contribute to the development of a yeast infection:
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Antibiotic use
- Weakened immune system
- High blood sugar levels
- Tight or non-breathable clothing
- Sexual activity
Recognizing Yeast Infection Symptoms
Identifying the symptoms of a yeast infection is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While some women may experience mild or no symptoms, others may notice several signs indicating an infection.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
- Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
- Burning sensation, especially during urination or sexual intercourse
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- Vaginal pain or soreness
- Thick, white, odorless discharge resembling cottage cheese
What distinguishes a yeast infection from other vaginal conditions? Unlike bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, yeast infections typically do not produce a strong odor. The discharge is usually thick and white, rather than thin or discolored.
Diagnosing Yeast Infections
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. While some women may recognize the symptoms from previous experiences, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if it’s your first suspected yeast infection.
Diagnostic Methods
- Physical examination
- Review of symptoms
- Vaginal swab test
- pH test of vaginal secretions
How can you differentiate between a yeast infection and other vaginal conditions? Healthcare providers may perform a microscopic examination of vaginal secretions to identify the presence of yeast cells or conduct a culture test to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Yeast Infections
Once diagnosed, yeast infections can be effectively treated with antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and personal preferences.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
MONISTAT® is a popular over-the-counter antifungal treatment available in different strengths:
- MONISTAT® 1: Highest dose, single-day treatment
- MONISTAT® 3: Regular strength, three-day treatment
- MONISTAT® 7: Low dose, seven-day treatment
Which MONISTAT® treatment is right for you? Consider your lifestyle and the severity of your symptoms. MONISTAT® 1 may be ideal for busy women seeking quick relief, while MONISTAT® 7 is recommended for pregnant or diabetic women.
Prescription Treatments
In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, for more severe or recurrent infections.
Preventing Yeast Infections
Taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing yeast infections.
Effective Prevention Strategies
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing
- Maintain good hygiene practices
- Avoid douching
- Limit sugar intake
- Use antibiotics only when necessary
How can probiotics help prevent yeast infections? Some studies suggest that consuming probiotic-rich foods or supplements may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, potentially reducing the risk of yeast overgrowth.
Potential Complications of Untreated Yeast Infections
While most yeast infections are easily treatable, leaving them unaddressed can lead to more serious health issues in rare cases.
Possible Complications
- Recurring infections
- Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections
- Candidemia (yeast infection in the bloodstream)
- Invasive candidiasis (yeast infection affecting other body parts)
What is candidemia and how serious is it? Candidemia occurs when Candida enters the bloodstream, potentially leading to a life-threatening condition. While rare in healthy individuals, it’s more common in hospitalized patients or those with weakened immune systems.
Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
Pregnant women are more susceptible to yeast infections due to hormonal changes. However, treatment requires special consideration to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Safe Treatment Options for Pregnant Women
- Topical antifungal creams (as recommended by a healthcare provider)
- MONISTAT® 7 (approved for use during pregnancy)
- Natural remedies (under medical supervision)
Why are pregnant women more prone to yeast infections? The increased estrogen levels during pregnancy can disrupt the vaginal pH balance, creating an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many yeast infections can be treated at home, certain situations warrant professional medical care.
Signs You Should See a Doctor
- First-time yeast infection symptoms
- Recurring infections (4 or more per year)
- Severe symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatment
- Unusual discharge color or odor
- Fever or chills
- Abdominal or back pain
- Pregnancy
How can you determine if your symptoms indicate a yeast infection or a more serious condition? If you experience any unusual symptoms or if over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
The Link Between Yeast Infections and Other Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can increase the likelihood of developing yeast infections or exacerbate their symptoms.
Related Health Conditions
- Diabetes
- HIV/AIDS
- Autoimmune disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
How does diabetes affect yeast infection risk? High blood sugar levels create an environment where yeast can thrive, increasing the risk of infections. Proper blood sugar management is crucial for preventing recurrent yeast infections in diabetic individuals.
Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
While medical treatments are often necessary, some natural remedies and lifestyle changes may help alleviate symptoms or prevent recurrences.
Potential Natural Remedies
- Yogurt or probiotic supplements
- Tea tree oil (diluted)
- Garlic
- Boric acid suppositories
What dietary changes can help prevent yeast infections? Reducing sugar intake and incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any natural remedies, especially if you’re pregnant or have underlying health conditions.
Impact of Yeast Infections on Sexual Health
Yeast infections can significantly impact a woman’s sexual health and relationships.
Sexual Health Considerations
- Discomfort during intercourse
- Potential transmission to sexual partners
- Emotional stress and anxiety
Can yeast infections be sexually transmitted? While yeast infections are not typically considered sexually transmitted infections, they can sometimes be passed between sexual partners. It’s advisable to avoid sexual activity during treatment and to ensure both partners are treated if necessary.
Recurrent Yeast Infections: Causes and Management
Some women experience frequent yeast infections, which can be frustrating and impact their quality of life.
Strategies for Managing Recurrent Infections
- Long-term antifungal therapy
- Identifying and addressing underlying causes
- Lifestyle modifications
- Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider
What constitutes recurrent yeast infections? Recurrent yeast infections are defined as four or more symptomatic episodes within a year. If you’re experiencing frequent infections, it’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider to identify potential causes and develop an effective management plan.
The Role of Probiotics in Vaginal Health
Probiotics have gained attention for their potential role in maintaining vaginal health and preventing yeast infections.
Benefits of Probiotics for Vaginal Health
- Promoting a balanced vaginal microbiome
- Potentially reducing the risk of yeast overgrowth
- Supporting overall immune function
How do probiotics work to prevent yeast infections? Probiotics, particularly strains of Lactobacillus, can help maintain an acidic vaginal environment that inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms, including Candida. While research is ongoing, incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements into your diet may be beneficial for vaginal health.
Yeast Infections in Men: What You Need to Know
While less common, men can also develop yeast infections, typically affecting the genital area.
Symptoms of Male Yeast Infections
- Redness and irritation on the penis
- Itching or burning sensation
- Rash on the penis
- Discharge under the foreskin
How are yeast infections in men treated? Treatment typically involves antifungal creams or oral medications. Men who experience recurrent infections should consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions such as diabetes or immune system disorders.
The Future of Yeast Infection Treatment and Prevention
Ongoing research is exploring new approaches to treating and preventing yeast infections.
Emerging Treatment Strategies
- Novel antifungal medications
- Targeted probiotics for vaginal health
- Immunotherapy approaches
- Advanced diagnostic techniques
What potential breakthroughs are on the horizon for yeast infection management? Researchers are investigating new antifungal compounds that may be more effective against resistant strains of Candida. Additionally, personalized probiotic treatments tailored to an individual’s microbiome are showing promise in early studies.
Understanding yeast infections, their symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for maintaining vaginal health and overall well-being. By recognizing the signs early, seeking appropriate treatment, and taking preventive measures, women can effectively manage these common infections and minimize their impact on daily life. Remember, while yeast infections are generally not serious, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Is It a Vaginal Yeast Infection or Something Else?
Every year, millions of cases of vaginitis (vaginal inflammation) affect women of all ages, but they are especially susceptible during the reproductive years.1 Fluctuating hormonal levels, bacteria, and sexual activities are just a few of the most common reasons women experience vaginal infections and discomfort. Knowing your body well and understanding your symptoms, causes, risk factors and treatment options will help you decide upon a course of action that is right for you.
How to identify a vaginal yeast infection
Not all women will experience noticeable symptoms of a yeast infection. If the infection is mild, the symptoms may be subtle. Knowing what’s normal for you will help you identify changes in your vaginal health. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms for the first time, consult your healthcare professional for a diagnosis. Most women have one or more of these yeast infection symptoms:
- Burning, redness, and swelling of the vagina and vulva
- Pain when urinating or having sex
- Vulvar inflammation (redness, swelling, rash)
- Vaginal pain, soreness, or burning
- Vaginal discharge that may be thick, white, and lumpy like cottage cheese
The three most common forms of vaginitis are yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and trichomoniasis. Symptoms for all three can include some form of vaginal discharge, itching, and irritation, so it is important to understand how they are different so you can get the right treatment. Use the following information as a guide to help identify a vaginal yeast infection:2-5
Common Symptoms | Yeast Infection | Bacterial Vaginitis | Trichomoniasis |
---|---|---|---|
Itching/Irritation | Usually | Sometimes | Usually |
Odor | None | Fishy or unpleasant | Musty or unpleasant |
Discharge | Thick, white, cottage cheese-like | Thin, milky white or grey | Frothy, yellow-green |
Burning | Usually | Rare | Usually |
Common Treatments | MONISTAT®, other over-the-counter and prescription treatments | Prescription Antibiotics | Prescription Antibiotics |
If you experience any of the following symptoms, ask a healthcare professional before using MONISTAT®, as they could be signs of another type of infection.
- Fever
- Chills
- Rash or hives
- Lower abdominal, back or shoulder pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Foul-smelling or greenish/grayish vaginal discharge
- Missed periods
- Frequent urination, an urgent need to urinate or difficulty passing urine
Treating a Yeast Infection
If you know that it is a yeast infection from past experience and are familiar with the symptoms, you want an effective and convenient medicine – one that works at the site of the infection. Try MONISTAT®, the #1 OTC antifungal.
MONISTAT® comes in 3 doses: highest dose MONISTAT® 1, regular strength MONISTAT® 3, and low dose MONISTAT® 7. Regardless of which product you choose, you should begin to experience some symptom relief after 3 days, and complete relief in 7 days.
Highest Dose MONISTAT® 1 may be the perfect solution for busy women with active lifestyles. This powerful single-dose product is available in the Ovule® form for use day or night and will stay in place during daily activities, even during exercise.
Regular Strength MONISTAT® 3 is a great option for women who want a less concentrated treatment that provides consistent treatment and relief at moderate dosage levels.
Low Dose MONISTAT® 7 has smaller doses of the active ingredient evenly distributed throughout the week at bedtime. Only 7-day topical yeast infection treatments are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the treatment of yeast infections in pregnant and diabetic women (consult your healthcare professional).
Yeast Infection Complications
By
Eileen Bailey
Yeast infections might seem trivial, more a nuisance than a serious health problem. While that is true most of the time, you should be aware of potential complications.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include a white vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese and burning, irritation and redness of the vaginal area. With more severe yeast infections, you might have swelling of the lips of the vagina.
Untreated yeast infections can sometimes get into the bloodstream. This is called candidemia. It is one of the most common bloodstream infections in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control.
Invasive candidiasis occurs when the yeast infection affects other parts of the body including the blood, brain, and heart. This normally happens when an open sore is exposed to a yeast infection, and it isn’t usually related to vaginal yeast infections. With invasive candidiasis, you might have a fever and chills. It can cause serious health complications if not promptly treated.
Some people have treatment-resistant Candida yeast infections. Normally, a yeast infection should clear up in seven to 14 days with treatment. If your infection does not, you should contact your doctor to confirm your diagnosis and for further treatment.
Some women experience recurrent yeast infections, sometimes getting yeast infections several times per year. Some find yeast infections occur at or around their monthly period because of hormonal fluctuations. If you have recurrent yeast infections, your doctor might suggest taking maintenance medications for six months to prevent them from returning.
Many women develop yeast infections during pregnancy due to changing hormones and pH in the vagina. Treatments for yeast infections during pregnancy are limited to vaginal creams or suppositories. It might take longer — between 10 and 14 days — for a yeast infection to clear up during pregnancy. Oral yeast infection medications have not been proven safe during pregnancy.
Untreated yeast infections can lead to additional health problems. The area around your vagina might become inflamed, sore, or cracked. This can lead to skin infections. A long-term yeast infection can result in a lowered immune system and increase the chance that the yeast infection can spread to other parts of the body.
Some rare side effects of an untreated yeast infection include headaches, mood swings, mouth problems (thrush), fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems.
Yeast infections can change the pH level in your vagina, which can lead to difficulty conceiving. Sperm require a specific pH to survive, and the yeast infection could cause sperm to die before reaching the uterus or fallopian tube.
Recurrent or severe yeast infections can interfere with your monthly cycle. Yeast infections can cause your body to produce a false estrogen. Some women experience worsening of menstrual cramps or a disruption to their period.
If you believe you have a yeast infection, you should contact your doctor. Even if you are receiving treatment, should you experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, or chills, you should immediately call your doctor.
Thrush in the mouth (candidiasis) – articles “Dental Formula”
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- Thrush in the mouth (candidiasis)
Thrush in the mouth (candidiasis) develops as a result of infection of the mucous membrane with opportunistic fungi Candida albicans. The disease is often diagnosed in children and the elderly, due to the reduced activity of the protective functions of the body. From a sick person to a healthy person, the infection is transmitted by contact-household way. The disease has characteristic symptoms that should be a reason to visit a dentist as soon as possible. Treatment of thrush in the mouth should be comprehensive, self-medication in this case is fraught with serious complications. Our doctors will prescribe an effective therapy regimen based on the results of the tests and help get rid of the pathology in the shortest possible time.
General information
Oral thrush is an infectious disease that develops against the background of a fungal infection of the mucous membrane of Candida albicans. Candida albicans is a conditionally pathogenic microorganism that is an associate of the normal microflora of the body. However, when unfavorable factors concur, the fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, causing pathological processes of various localization: skin, oral mucosa, vagina, etc. But one penetration of the fungus into the oral mucosa is not enough for the active development of the disease. Loose spores are easily removed from the mouth while eating, drinking, rinsing, etc. Pathology begins to develop when unfavorable factors coincide against the background of a decrease in the protective functions of the body.
Development factors
The development of oral thrush is facilitated by conditions in which the function of the immune system is suppressed, namely:
- pregnancy;
- prematurity, underweight newborn;
- congenital or acquired immunodeficiencies;
- active stage of pulmonary tuberculosis; malignant processes of any localization;
- acute infectious processes;
- frequent acute respiratory infections, SARS;
- hormonal, endocrine disorders;
- metabolic diseases;
- chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- uncontrolled intake of certain groups of medicines: antibiotics, glucocorticosteroids, hormone-containing drugs, cytostatics;
- bad habits: smoking, alcohol abuse;
- chronic injuries of the oral mucosa;
- thermal, chemical burns;
- unbalanced diet.
What does thrush look like in the mouth and what symptoms does it cause? After removal of plaque, a hyperemic dry mucosa is visible.
Other signs of pathology:
- burning, itching, which increase during eating, drinking, talking;
- dryness, discomfort, feeling of tightness in the mouth;
- non-healing cracks on the lips, at the corners of the mouth;
- sore throat when swallowing;
- inflammation of the lymph nodes;
- fever.
Thrush in a child’s mouth causes constant anxiety, lack of appetite, problems with sleep. In children, the disease occurs with more severe symptoms. It is important to start treatment in a timely manner, since oral candidiasis can turn into a chronic form, which is much more difficult to deal with and takes longer /
Complications
Complications of oral canidosis develop as a result of untimely or incorrect treatment:
- Candidal esophagitis.
Fungal infection of the walls of the esophagus, manifested by difficulty in swallowing, discomfort and pain in the chest. With a long course of pathology, severe beriberi develops, the patient’s condition worsens, and rapid weight loss occurs.
- Candida tracheitis. It is characterized by a fungal infection of the trachea. Typical symptoms: dry painful cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever. If there is no treatment for the pathology, the fungus can spread to the internal organs.
- Gastrointestinal candidiasis. Fungal infection of the stomach, intestines is accompanied by nausea, bouts of vomiting, general intoxication, abdominal pain.
- Candidal sepsis. A general purulent infection that develops as a result of penetration into the bloodstream of a fungal pathogen and its metabolic products. Sepsis is a serious complication that, in the absence of emergency medical care, leads to death.
Diagnosis of oral candidiasis
If you have characteristic symptoms, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. The diagnosis is established by a specialist on the basis of a set of data;
- patient complaints;
- results of a dental examination;
- laboratory data.
To determine the nature of the disease, laboratory diagnostics is prescribed, including the following tests:
- Panoramic microscopy, which allows to detect Candida fungi in smears taken from the affected areas of the mucosa.
- Bakposev, which allows you to identify not only the pathogen itself, but also its concentration.
- Serological tests – intradermal allergy test for antibodies to Candida IgG / IgA.
- PCR analysis of scrapings. The most accurate analysis that allows you to identify the pathogen and select the most effective treatment regimen.
How to treat thrush in the mouth
Treatment of thrush in the oral cavity is complex and should be carried out under strict medical supervision. The main methods to destroy the infection and get rid of the disease:
- oral hygiene;
- relief of pathological symptoms;
- treatment of concomitant diseases;
- strengthening immunity.
Effective drugs
Antifungal treatment is based on topical preparations. Ointments have proven themselves well:
- “Nystatin”;
- “Levorin”;
- “Dekamin”;
- Clotrimazole.
Sanitation of the oral cavity is carried out by regular rinsing with solutions of drinking soda, “Fukortsin”, “Iodinol”. Symptomatic treatment allows you to get rid of pain, burning, discomfort in the oral cavity. To do this, use ointments and gels with a cooling and analgesic effect. If candidiasis is complicated by the addition of a bacterial infection, systemic antibiotics are prescribed.
Physiotherapy
Effective auxiliary methods of complex treatment of oral thrush include physiotherapy procedures that:
- enhance the effect of prescribed drugs;
- accelerate recovery;
- prevent the development of complications;
- activate the protective functions of the body.
Physiotherapy for illness
- electrophoresis with potassium iodide solution;
- ultraviolet phototherapy;
- laser therapy;
- magnetotherapy.
Medical nutrition
Diet for oral candidiasis is an integral part of complex therapy, which allows you to speed up recovery and prevent complications. The main objectives of clinical nutrition:
- stop the growth and development of yeast-like fungi;
- to restore the own microflora of the mucosa;
- to strengthen the immune system in order to prevent relapses.
The first thing that patients with diagnosed thrush need to fly to is to exclude carbohydrates from the diet, which are a favorable environment for the active life of a fungal infection. What foods are banned:
- sweets;
- bakery products;
- milk, moldy cheeses;
- fatty sauces;
- smoked products;
- canned food;
- products containing artificial colors, preservatives, flavor enhancers;
- carbonated soft drinks;
- beer.
During the diet, emphasis should be placed on the following foods:
- fresh vegetables, fruits with moderate sweetness, herbs;
- lean meat, fish;
- cereals: buckwheat, oatmeal, rice;
- fermented milk products: cottage cheese, natural yoghurt;
- butter, vegetable;
- vegetarian soups.
Cooking is recommended using gentle methods: boil in water, steam, grill, oven. Do not forget about the drinking regimen. The daily norm is 1.5 – 2 liters of pure non-carbonated water. To improve the functioning of the digestive tract and strengthen the immune system, it is useful to consume juices from vegetables and fruits such as:
- carrots;
- tomatoes;
- pumpkin;
- cranberries.
Useful herbal teas from chamomile, sage, lavender. The drink must be at room temperature. To improve the taste, you can add a teaspoon of natural honey.
Prevention of oral thrush
Prevention of candidiasis includes:
- A healthy lifestyle without bad habits.
- High-quality, balanced nutrition that helps to strengthen the immune system and maintain the proper functioning of all organs and systems.
- Visiting the dentist at least once every six months, timely treatment of dental diseases.
- Professional oral hygiene every 6 to 12 months.
- Proper care of dentures.
- Strengthening the protective functions of the body: hardening, regular walks in the fresh air, moderate exercise, taking vitamin preparations, etc.
Author of material
Vavilova Victoria Vyacheslavovna
Member of the Professional Society of Orthodontists of Russia (StAR). He takes an active part in international congresses and conferences. He is a certified specialist in working with Incognito™ lingual braces systems, a certified specialist in working with Star smile aligners.
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The thrush appears almost out of nowhere and makes herself known as a real torture. And she also has a vile property to return. We tell you what the causes of the disease are, whether it is worth waiting until the tests are ready, and how to reduce the risk of a new disease.
What is thrush and where does it come from
Thrush (candidiasis) is an infection caused by fungi of the genus Candida. They are part of the natural human microflora, usually live on the mucous membranes and do not interfere, because the body’s defenses inhibit their growth. But sometimes they begin to multiply at a high rate. They most often prevent women from living, developing on the vaginal mucosa, and young children, when they affect the oral cavity due to the fact that babies pull everything into their mouths.
But sometimes candidiasis also affects the internal organs, if the immune system cannot resist fungi. This happens with HIV infection, after chemotherapy, when taking drugs that depress the immune system (for example, during organ transplantation).
This is what happens if you:
- Woman 20-40 years old. According to statistics, candidiasis at this age is more common.
- Pregnant. Changes in the hormonal background and the restructuring of the body also change the conditions in which the microflora lives.
- Have sex when there is not enough natural or artificial lubrication: microtraumas contribute to the appearance of thrush.
- You are taking antibiotics. Antibacterial drugs destroy not only harmful microbes, but also beneficial ones. Their place is taken by Candida.
- Suffer from diabetes. Elevated blood sugar creates a breeding ground for fungi.
- A person with weak immunity.
Moreover, fungi are activated both in serious diseases and in ordinary acute respiratory viral infections.
Thrush is well treated with special antifungal antibiotics, but it has a nasty property to return again and again, because it is almost impossible to completely exterminate all these microorganisms.
Symptoms of thrush
Symptoms of the disease depend on which organs are affected. With a general infection, a person develops a high fever, chills and trembling, nausea, and headache. With candidiasis, stomatitis develops in the mouth: it hurts to eat and swallow, the gums turn red, round white spots appear on the mucous membranes – foci of infection.
Thrush in women is manifested by characteristic symptoms:
- Severe itching and discomfort in the genital area.
- Copious white or yellowish discharge. They can be dense and resemble cottage cheese.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Sometimes – burning and pain during urination.
- Redness and swelling of the vulva.
How to cure thrush
Thrush is treated with special antibiotics that are active against fungal infections. Clotrimazole, fluconazole, natamycin are taken orally or suppositories and creams are used, sometimes combining these types of therapy.
Depending on the type of medication and how it responds to treatment, it can take anywhere from a couple of days to two weeks. If the fungal infection often recurs, the doctor prescribes long-term treatment.
When thrush in the mouth is helped by rinsing with a soda solution: it inhibits the reproduction of fungi.
Is it possible to treat thrush without a visit to the doctor?
Women already familiar with thrush, who know what could have caused the flare-up and who already have a working prescription, can start treatment even before a visit to the doctor. The results of the analysis for candidiasis appear no earlier than a week later, and the wait can be unbearable.
But if the signs of the disease make you doubt the diagnosis (the discharge smells bad, you feel pain in the lower abdomen, unusual symptoms appear), then it is better to go and take a smear. Maybe Candida isn’t the only microbe that’s caused the inflammation.
If you have never had thrush and you have diagnosed yourself on the Internet, then immediately forget about it and go to the doctor.
Mandatory consultation about treatment if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Thrush has started twice in the last six months.
- You or your partner have previously been diagnosed with an STD.
- Symptoms persist 7–10 days after starting treatment.
In all these cases, the doctor must clarify the diagnosis and choose the best treatment.
How not to get thrush
- Use underwear made from natural fabrics that do not pinch or rub anywhere. Irritated skin, heat and humidity are ideal conditions for the development of fungi.
- Wash your sportswear more often.
- For genital hygiene – only water or special mild soap (the latter no more than once a day).
- Use hygiene products that are free of dyes and fragrances.
- If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels.
- Sometimes fungi react even to changes in diet and alcohol. Eat less sweet and spicy foods.
- Try to ensure that the child does not put dirty hands and objects into his mouth: this way there is less chance of earning stomatitis.
- And universal advice: support your immune system with proper nutrition and active walks in the fresh air.
In case of symptoms of thrush – do not wait, be sure to consult a doctor.