Signs of a Yeast Infection & Its Causes

Yeast infection is considered to be a fungal infection that causes discomforts like itchiness, irritation and discharge in the vagina. It is a common infection, which is not only limited to females but can also occur in males. When the infection begins to develop, it display numerous signs, from which itching is considered to be the most common one. However, besides that, there are many other signs of a yeast infection that should be aware of. And in this article, we will discuss exactly the same. 

So, if you think you have a yeast infection or want to educate yourself on the subject, simply read this article. Here we won’t only discuss its signs, but also its causes, treatment and some prevention tips.

What Are Some Of the Most Common Signs of Yeast infection?

Here are some of the most common signs an individual will notice when suffering from a vaginal yeast infection. 

• Vaginal discharge that might be watery or may look like cottage cheese
• Irritation and itching
• Redness 
• Discomfort while urinating
• Swelling
• Soreness
• Burning sensation or pain while having sex

Signs Of Complicated Yeast Infection

It is also possible for an individual to get a severe yeast infection that requires more care than usual. The treatment to cure this infection usually lasts much longer, and you must keep up with the doctor for a significant time.

With a complicated yeast infection, you are likely to experience similar symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling, but they will be extreme and will cause sores and tears. The infection occurring four times or more than that in a year is also a sign of a complicated yeast infection.

Penile Yeast Infection

Yeast infection in males is also known as candida balanitis. According to the sources, 3-11% of the men get infected by this infection once in their lifetime. A penile yeast infection usually occurs if you have sex with someone who already has a yeast infection or if the fungus has overgrown on your penis. Here are some common signs of penile yeast infection:

• Discharge with foul smell
• Red patches on the penis 
• Pain while trying to pull back the foreskin
• Itching or other discomfort under the foreskin
• Burning or itching at the top of your head
• You may also notice crusty or flaky peeling skin

What Causes Yeast Infection?

The Fungus called Candida albicans is considered to be the primary cause of developing yeast infection. It occurs in the vagina naturally, which is balanced by the other bacteria named Lactobacillus. 

However, when the balance is disturbed, Candida overgrows, which eventually causes the yeast infection.

The causes of the overgrowth of the Candida includes :

• Low Immunity
• High Blood Sugar Levels
• Pregnancy or any other condition that may bring changes to the hormones
• Medicines that may kill Lactobacillus, the bacteria that keeps the growth of Candida in check

Are There Any Ways To Prevent Yeast Infection?

Yes, here are some tips you need to follow to prevent yeast infection.

1. Avoid Wearing Tight Clothes

Tight clothes are likely to boost your body temperature and increase the chances of you getting a yeast infection. Hence, avoid wearing tight jeans, skirts, and yoga pants and opt for loose-fitting bottoms.

2. Prefer Wearing Cotton Underwear

Cotton underwear is recommended because it helps in keeping that area ventilated and also in preventing the yeast production from your vagina.

3. Stay Less Stressed

There are a few studies showing that stress can be one of the causes of yeast infection. Stress lowers the immune system’s ability, which ultimatley makes your body more susceptible to diseases and illnesses.

So, if you are stressed more frequently throughout the day, indulge in practices like meditation that assist in reducing stress.

4. Do Not Forget Personal Hygiene

Even though the vagina has the natural ability to clean itself from the inside, it is still crucial for you to clean it up from the outside using gentle cleanser and water. However, make sure that you avoid using any harsh cleanser.

The same is advised to men, use gentle products to clean the genitals and practice proper hygiene. Ensure to clean and dry underneath the area of penis foreskin properly to avoid the development of yeast infection. 

5. Stay Clean and Dry

Always keep yourself clean and dry because yeast infection is likely to grow in moist places. Hence, dry up properly after bathing and avoid wearing wet or sweaty clothes. Change them as soon as possible to prevent the development of yeast infection. 

What Is The Treatment For Vaginal Yeast Infection?

The treatment for vaginal yeast infection usually depends on how severe it is.

For instance, if your vaginal yeast infection is not that severe, then your medical expert is likely to recommend a treatment that will last for around a week. It will include an anti-fungal cream, tablet, ointment, etc. 

With such prescribed treatment, you will have your yeast infection treated. However, if the symptoms return, revisit your doctor to find the solution. 

However, if you have severe vaginal yeast infection, then the treatment will be different, which may include:

• Long-term vaginal therapy – Your medical expert will advise you to take an antifungal medicine every day for around two weeks. After that, you will have to take it once a week for six months. 

• Azole-resistant therapy – In this therapy, a capsule is inserted in the vagina and is utilized only to cure candida fungus.

• Two to Three Doses Of Oral Medication – In this treatment, your doctor will recommend you take 2-3 tablets of anti-fungal tablets from the mouth.

Conclusion

So, there are many signs of a yeast infection, and you must seek medical attention if you notice any of them. A right treatment will help you eliminate these signs and infection before they begin to turn serious. 

Once your yeast infection is treated, ensure you follow the prevention tips we provided above so that you do not get the infection again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can yeast infection delay your period?

No, yeast infection won’t delay your period. However, antifungal drugs given vaginally to treat this infection may cause the delay.

Q2. How to tell if a guy has a yeast infection?

There are many signs that indicate a yeast infection in a male, which includes the following:

• Discomfort around the foreskin and head of the penis
• Discharge with a bad smell
• Discomfort while pulling back the foreskin
• Blisters on penis

Q3. What cures yeast infection fast?

In general, taking an anti-fungal infection for around one week will help fully treat the yeast infection. However, the treatment may differ if the condition is severe.