Yeast infection is a common fungal infection that affects seventy-five percent of the women population. The infection causes inflammation, discharge, irritation, and itchiness. Many women experience it several times in their lifetime. However, men can also get affected by yeast infections.

In most cases, yeast infection can be treated with over-the-counter yeast infection pills and topical creams. The patient experiences relief within a few days of starting the treatment. However, for more severe infections and recurring episodes, prolonged treatment may be helpful.

What are the causes of yeast infection?

A healthy vagina contains a balanced mix of yeast and certain bacteria. A change in vaginal ph can disrupt the vaginal ecosystem. It can lead to an overgrowth of yeast called candida.

Some factors that can disrupt the natural balance of your vagina are:

1. Taking antibiotic medication- If you are taking antibiotics for any infection, the medicines can kill both good and bad bacteria. Since healthy bacteria are responsible for keeping the yeast level in check, an overgrowth of yeast may occur. This can result in vaginal yeast infection.

2. Change in hormone levels- Your hormone levels can change due to multiple reasons, like pregnancy, menopause, etc. Hormonal contraceptives can also result in yeast overgrowth, causing an infection.

3. The uncontrolled diabetes- The sugar level in your urine can impact your vagina and lead to yeast overgrowth.

4. A weak immunity – People with a weak immune system are more susceptible to yeast infection. Diseases like HIV or AIDS can also impact your immunity, increasing your chances of yeast infection.

The most common cause of yeast infection is a fungus called Candida Albicans. However, other types of Candida yeast can also cause yeast infections.

The infection caused by a different version of candida may become severe, and the patient can have recurring episodes. In such a case, the conventional treatment and over-the-counter medications may not bring the desired result.

Hence, it is advisable to consult your doctor if the symptoms persist for a long time or return after the treatment. Your doctor may conduct a lab test to identify the type of candida and prescribe suitable medication based on test results.

What are the symptoms of yeast infection?

The symptoms of vaginal infection can be moderate or severe. Some of these telltale symptoms include:

1. Itchiness in the vagina and vulva
2. Pain or burning sensation during urination and intercourse.
3. Rashes
4. Redness and swelling
5. Thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge
6. Small cuts or cracks in the skin of the vulva

In the case of many women, the discharge has a cottage cheese-like consistency. However, some women can also experience watery discharge.

In severe cases, women can experience four or more infections during a year.

What are the treatment methods for yeast infection?

A yeast infection is treated with an antifungal medication. These medicines are available in the form of topical creams, yeast infection pills, and vaginal suppositories.

Some of these medicines are also available over-the-counter and online. However, before treating yourself with over-the-counter medication, you need to ensure that you have a yeast infection.

Overuse of yeast infection pills can increase the chances of yeast resistance. Hence, the medication may not be effective for any future yeast infection treatment.

It is advisable to consult your health care provider to know the exact cause of the infection. Based on your symptoms and their severity, a health care provider may prescribe suitable medication.

For mild symptoms, a doctor will prescribe a topical cream, yeast infection pill, or suppository for a short duration of 1 to 6 days.

However, for patients with severe symptoms, prolonged treatment for one or two weeks is required.

Common medications for yeast infection include butoconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, nystatin, boric acid, terconazole and fluconazole. You may need to schedule a follow-up visit with your health care provider if the symptoms return within two months.