But what resembles a yeast infection may be a sign of other, more serious conditions, including sexually transmitted diseases and pinworms. Thus, it is usually advised that a woman consult with a medical professional to determine the root of the symptoms.
Yeast infections are caused by a bacterial imbalance in the vagina. Many different types of bacteria thrive in the warm, moist conditions of the vagina, including the yeast called Candida albicans. This yeast normally can be found in the digestive tract, vagina, and skin, existing in balance with other microscopic organisms. But sometimes, the yeast starts to thrive and grow beyond normal parameters, leading to an infection in the vulva or vaginal areas.
CONDITIONS ARE RIPE
The acidic environment of the vagina and the presence of friendly bacteria normally help keep Candida yeast in check. But a change in pH levels can alter the body’s chemistry, allowing overgrowth. Other conditions can also cause a yeast infection.
These include the use of antibiotics, which can kill off the friendly lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina and affect the pH levels; pregnancy, which can affect pH; unmanaged diabetes; taking oral contraceptives; or undergoing hormone therapy for perimenopause or menopause, which can also alter balances in the body.
Some sexual activities may also affect the pH balance, particularly oral-genital contact. But women who are not sexually active can also develop yeast infections.
While it is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, men can acquire the infection from their female partners. In a male, symptoms include a mild rash at the end of the penis and itching. Some 15 percent of men who have relations with a yeast-infected female will develop their own infection.
Beyond regular infections, there is also a condition known as a complicated yeast infection. This occurs with severe symptoms - swelling, extensive redness, terrible itching that leads to cracks, tears, or fissures in the vaginal area. The complicated yeast infection is caused by Candida bacteria other than Candida abicans and can reoccur more than four times per year. Those who are pregnant, have unmanaged diabetes, or an immune system weakened by medications or the presence of HIV are at a higher risk for a complicated yeast infection.
OTHER POTENTIAL PROBLEMS
Since the symptoms of yeast infections resemble other conditions, it is imperative to have it diagnosed via laboratory testing. A doctor can typically diagnose an infection with a brief examination and a microscopic look at vaginal fluids.
If the patient does not have a vaginal yeast infection, here are the other possibilities generating similar symptoms.
- Bacterial vaginosis - Usually referred to by the acronym BV, this is a bacterial infection not caused by yeast overgrowth. The discharge will typically have a strong, fish-like odor and cause pain during urination.
- Trichomoniasis - An infection caused by a parasite and usually acquired during sex. This condition can generate a foul-smelling green discharge, as well as swelling of the labia and redness. Pain during urination is also present.
- Sexually transmitted diseases - Gonorrhea and herpes can generate symptoms similar to a yeast infection. Redness in the labia and painful intercourse are among the symptoms that should be checked.
- Cervical infection - This can produce a burning sensation and often results in a discharge during intercourse or while urinating.
- Pinworms - This parasite can sometimes cause a vaginal infection.
- Tampon or IUD problems - A tampon that is left in too long or a birth control device like a cervical cap or diaphragm can become askew and irritate the area of insertion, causing burning and discharges.
It is recommended that someone who suspects a yeast infection see a doctor, particularly if it is a first-time experience, the symptoms are not responding to over-the-counter fungal infection medications, other symptoms develop, or another medical issue is suspected.
The gynecologist will ask about the patient’s history, particularly about sexual and prior vaginal infections. The physical will include a pelvic examination that will focus on the external part of the genitals for redness, sores, and other signs of infection. A gynecologist will use a medical instrument called a speculum to examine the vagina and cervix as well.
A vaginal fluid sample will be taken to determine which fungus is causing the infection. If the infection is determined to be an uncomplicated yeast infection, it will be treated with antifungal medications like Gynazole-1, Gyne-Lotrimin, Monistat 3 or Terazol 3, available as pills, ointments, creams, and suppositories. These treatments will last up to a week and will usually clear the problem, but there may be some initial irritation from the products and may require that the patient use an alternative form of birth control for the period of treatment, as oily creams can weaken condoms and diaphragms, causing breakage.
There are also single-dose, one-time antifungal medications, such as Diflucan, and over-the- counter medications that are effective.
Complicated yeast infections require more intensive treatment that can last up to two weeks. A doctor may recommend Azole medications and multiple doses of fluconazole to be taken orally (pregnant women should avoid this) or a regular maintenance program that can last up to six months to clear stubborn problems.
Some preemptive measures can be used to reduce the chances of developing a yeast infection. Cotton underwear and loose clothing can stop the compression of areas that allow yeast to thrive. Patients should always change out of bathing gear or sweaty workout attire as soon as possible, and avoid hot tubs and extremely hot baths. It is also wise to avoid antibiotics when unnecessary.
It is worth remembering that no matter how complicated a yeast infection becomes, it can be treated. Unless the patient has a compromised immune system, full recovery in a short period of time can be expected.