Yeast infections are common fungal infections, and they most often occur among females.

While these types of infections are common, they’re not usually serious and can often be adequately treated at home without medical care. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah provides some additional helpful info on these types of infections below.

What Should I Know About Yeast Infections?

Technically, a yeast infection can occur in other parts of the body (mouth, throat and gut), but they most often occur in the vagina. A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva—the tissues at the vaginal opening.

Also called vaginal candidiasis, vaginal yeast infection affects up to three out of four women at some point in their lifetimes, and many women experience at least two episodes. OTC medications can often effectively treat yeast infections, but those who have recurrent infections (four or more a year) may need a longer treatment course and a maintenance plan.

Common Vaginal Yeast Infection Symptoms

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
• A burning sensation—especially during intercourse or while urinating
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Vaginal rash
• Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
• Watery vaginal discharge

If I Get a Yeast Infection, When Will It Go Away?

Mild yeast infections may clear up in as few as three days. Sometimes, they don’t even require treatment. However, moderate to severe infections may take one to two weeks to clear.

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments and home remedies are often effective for mild infections, but they aren’t as powerful as prescription options. If you are experiencing any of the scenarios we’ve listed below, it’s important to visit your doctor or our AFC center for treatment.

When to Seek Medical Care

• If it’s the first yeast infection you’ve ever had. See a doctor to be sure it’s not a more serious problem that needs a different treatment, such as a urinary tract infection or an STI.
• You’re pregnant. Any medications, including over-the-counter vaginal creams, need to be approved by your doctor during pregnancy.
• You often get yeast infections. If you have four or more yeast infections in a year, doctors call it “recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.” If you have it, you’ll need treatment for up to six months with an anti-fungal medication. Frequent yeast infections can also be a sign that you have diabetes or another medical condition.

Need medical care? Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah center today!