Did you know? Nearly 75% of women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives.
This is bad news because yeast infections are so uncomfortable to deal with, but they are also very treatable and preventable. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail highlights what you need to know about this common infection.
- Here’s what to do: Understand the infection first. The immune system works to keep your body’s natural yeast levels under control. When something causes the yeast cells to multiply and grow out of control, however, it will cause an infection and symptoms like swelling, itchiness, redness and pain during sex and urination.
- What to do next: Talk to a doctor. If your symptoms line up with what we’ve listed above, it’s important to be diagnosed correctly even if you plan on treating the infection with home remedies.
- What to do after: If you want to use at-home remedies, try tea tree oil. This essential oil is believed to spare good bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in the vagina’s flora. Research shows that that inserting a suppository with tea tree oil into the vagina may help treat yeast infections.
- Something else to try: Take a probiotic or eat more Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, which supplies your body with good bacteria and benefits gut health. Probiotics are most effective in treating infections when used alongside prescribed antibiotics, but they’re great for prevention.
- Another option: If these natural remedies don’t work, try OTC medications like Monistat or Vagistat. These medications are usually available in multiple forms and are generally effective for women who have mild infections and don’t get yeast infections often.
- Doctor’s recommendations: If your home remedies and OTC medications don’t work, talk to your doctor. You likely need prescription medication to take care of the problem.
- Action steps to take: If you are taking doctor-prescribed medication, finish out the whole dosage. Stopping the medication halfway won’t guarantee a full recovery.
- Ways to prevent future yeast infections: Make a few lifestyle changes. Things like wearing loose-fitting, cotton underwear, using unscented hygiene products and practicing healthy hygiene will help prevent future infections.
We hope you stay healthy and well this year! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail today.
