Yeast infection has a four-stage healing process. Symptoms and treatment are the first stage, and the second stage is preventing recurrence.
There are four stages in the healing process of yeast infection. The first stage consists of symptoms and treatment, and the second stage involves preventing recurrences.
The third stage involves taking antifungal medication.
During the fourth stage, you may need to eat a special diet. Finally, during the fifth and final stage, your infection should be completely gone.
Symptoms
Yeast infection is a common fungal infection. It is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida albicans. Symptoms can include burning, itching, pain and redness. If not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications.
The symptoms of a yeast infection vary from person to person. They can be accompanied by a watery discharge that looks like cottage cheese.
The best way to diagnose a yeast infection is to see a healthcare provider. This is because a doctor can rule out other causes of symptoms. He or she will take a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history. He or she will also scrape the skin to look for signs of infection.
If the infection is serious, a doctor may prescribe oral anti-yeast medicines. Other medications are topical or can be purchased over the counter.
Treatment Options for Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are a common ailment among women. They usually go away on their own after a few days, but if you have an infection that is not clear, you might need to see a doctor.
The treatment for a yeast infection varies depending on the type of infection. Some yeast infections are treated with over-the-counter medications while others require a prescription.
Treatment for yeast infection includes antifungal creams and ointments that can be applied to the vagina or used in conjunction with a tablet or vaginal suppositories.
The most common prescription medication for yeast infection is fluconazole. It can be used as a single dose or in multiple doses taken a few days apart. Don’t forget, fluconazole should not be taken by pregnant women.
Some women who have a yeast infection may feel embarrassed about going to the doctor to get treatment. They may not want to tell their partner. That is why it’s important to ask questions before seeing a doctor.
Preventing Recurrence
Keeping a yeast infection under control can help alleviate the symptoms and minimize discomfort. However, if the infection keeps coming back, it may be time to seek medical treatment.
Yeast infections are generally treated with antifungal medicines. There are two main types: oral and topical. Antifungal treatments work by killing the fungi. Antifungal medications have a success rate of 80-90 percent.
Using antifungals can also be an effective prevention strategy. Avoiding certain foods and maintaining a low-sugar diet may help curb yeast growth.
Keeping the vagina clean and dry can also prevent a yeast infection. A gynecologist can help you with this. Using cotton underwear can help prevent the growth of fungal colonies.
Taking a probiotic supplement may also help maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the vagina.
Common Over-The-Counter Meds to Try
Yeast infections can be cured with a variety of over-the-counter medicines. These include creams, tablets, and suppositories.
Medications work by fighting the overgrowth of yeast in the body. You should use them according to your healthcare provider’s instructions.
You may need to continue treatment for several weeks if you have a severe infection. Those with recurrent infections may need to use stronger antibiotics for longer periods.
Some antifungal medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription. Prescription medications may also include steroids or other drugs.
Antifungal creams are often used to treat vaginal yeast infections. These creams can be placed inside the vagina and applied with an applicator.
Some medications are also available as vaginal suppositories, like boric acid and probiotics. Boric acid is a mild antiseptic that can help relieve the symptoms of a yeast infection.
Antifungal Medications
Yeast infections can be very uncomfortable, but there are many types of antifungal medications to treat them. Some are more effective than others. If you have an infection, make sure to discuss treatment options with your doctor.
There are two main types of antifungal medications: prescription pills and over-the-counter creams. Choosing the right treatment can make all the difference in clearing your infection and getting back to normal.
When choosing an antifungal medication, be sure to read the leaflet that comes with the medicine. If you have any questions, call the patient information line at 111 or visit a local hospital.
If your infection is severe, your doctor may prescribe a more powerful antifungal medicine. Yeast infections are more likely to occur if you have an immune system that’s weakened or if you’re taking medicines such as corticosteroids.
How Long Does It Take To Fully Recover From a Yeast Infection?
Moderate to severe yeast infections may take one or two weeks to clear up, depending on how severe the infection is and how it’s treated. Mild yeast infections usually clear up within three days.
When treating mild infections, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments and home remedies are often effective, but they do not have the same power as prescription medications.
If you have a severe yeast infection, a milder treatment might prolong your symptoms.
Although yeast infections may clear without treatment on rare occasions, they need to be treated in order to restore your vagina’s natural balance of bacteria and yeast. Untreated yeast infections are more likely to recur and worsen.
Yeast Infections: When to See Your Doctor
You should see your doctor as soon as possible if your symptoms do not improve within a week or two of starting treatment. Your choice of treatment may not have been strong enough to eliminate the infection, so a different treatment may be required.
If you experience recurring yeast infections within two months, you might want to try seeing your doctor. Recurrent yeast infections aren’t rare and one infection in a year may not necessarily indicate a problem.
