Self-diagnosed candida yeast infection may be confused with STDs showing similar symptoms

Self-diagnosed candida yeast infection may be confused with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) showing similar symptoms. Although this yeast infection – commonly caused by the overgrowth of a fungus known as candida – is not life-threatening, it can be painful, itchy, and a nuisance. Taking the time to get properly diagnosed can end the misery much sooner instead of resorting to over-the-counter medications to treat what you think it could be.

Most women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lives. Menopausal women in particular are at a higher risk for yeast infections, though women in all age groups can be affected.

The problem is, when women start feeling a burning, itchy sensation, they automatically think it’s a yeast infection when, it fact, it could be an early sign of an STD. Wrongfully treating an STD can worsen the condition and make it last much longer, which can increase the symptoms and frustration as well.

Aside from STDs, symptoms similar to a yeast infection could also be a chemical irritation or allergic reaction, and this is why it’s so important to go see your doctor when symptoms arise in order to receive proper treatment.

To know the difference between a yeast infection and another infection or reaction, it’s important to know the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, which include itchiness, burning, redness, swelling of the vagina and vulva, thick, white vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse or urination.

If a women with a yeast infection receives treatment right away, the infection can go away in a few weeks, but without proper treatment it can linger much longer.

The good news is, there are plenty of prescription and over-the-counter medications for yeast infections to easily cure it. Furthermore, yeast infections do not increase your risk for other illnesses.

Overall, if you start experiencing yeast infection symptoms, have yourself checked out regardless of whether it is your first yeast infection or a recurring one, in order to better rule out any other possible health issue.

Candida yeast infection prevention and treatment

A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of candida fungus. To prevent a yeast infection from occurring, it is best to wear cotton, breathable underwear, avoid tight-fitting underwear or pantyhose, change out of wet clothing or bathing suit immediately, stay out of hot tubs or hot baths, and avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics – for example, for viral infections or colds.

There are many treatment options for candida yeast infection, which can either be prescribed or found over the counter. Treatment options for candida yeast infections include short-course vaginal therapy such as ointments, tablets or suppositories, single-dose oral medication that is a prescribed antifungal medication, or over-the-counter antifungal suppositories, ointments, and creams. Ointments are considered safer options for pregnant women than oral medications.

If symptoms don’t resolve within a few days to a week, go visit your doctor as you may have a complicated yeast infection. Treatment for complicated yeast infection includes vaginal therapy for a longer period of time and additional medications. Your doctor may put you on a maintenance plan by prescribing a medication to prevent future yeast infections.

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Sources:
https://vitalrecord.tamhsc.edu/you-asked-is-it-ok-to-tough-out-a-yeast-infection/
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/basics/treatment/con-20035129
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/basics/prevention/con-20035129