Common Symptoms of Yeast Infection

The symptoms of a yeast infection typically occur in the vaginal area. Diagnosis can be complex because the symptoms could indicate several different types of infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or cystitis. The following are the most common symptoms associated with infections, and how to tell whether it or not they are caused by yeast overgrowth.

A difference in vaginal discharge is one of the primary symptoms. Each women produces a different amount of discharge during the monthly cycle, and ovulation generally brings out distinct changes. However, a yeast infection discharge is a bit different, as it's more thick and creamy than normal. Many describe it as having a cottage cheese type appearance.

If the discharge has the smell of yeast, then this is another good indicator of a yeast infection. It's not necessarily unpleasant though, as it really mimics the smell of bread. These two symptoms are the ones to be aware of as they strongly indicate the presence of an infection.

Because a burning sensation while urinating is also associated with cystitis, women often assume that's what they have. However, this may or may not be true. Cystitis and yeast infections share many of the same symptoms, which is why they are often confused for one another.

Pain during urination is also a possible sign of several sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Should you be experiencing this, then visit a doctor as soon as possible. The results of a urine sample and a swab test will tell the story.

Vaginal soreness and itching, in addition to pain while urinating, are two other possible symptoms. The pernium and the vaginal opening are frequently the areas most affected. This discomfort can really be tough to deal with, and the natural inclination might be to scratch that area. However, doing so will only aggravate the symptoms that much more and to further spread.

If the yeast infection is bad enough, then medication or over-the-counter-treatment may be necessary. However, this will typically only provide short-term results and the chances of it returning are better than not. Treating the root of the problem is the best long-term solution. Yeast infections can stem from lifestyle habits, such as eating a diet high in sugar. Eating healthier will starve the yeast and boost your immune system in the process, helping prevent the infection from coming back again in the future.