Vaginal yeast infections are a common health condition that affects nearly 1 million women each year in the United States.
Yeast naturally occurs in the body, but when it overgrows too rapidly, it can cause an infection. Yeast infection in women is the second most common cause of vaginitis, an inflammation of the vagina.
At Oxford Urgent Care, we understand that symptoms of a yeast infection can be detrimental to your daily life. We are here seven days a week to help you alleviate symptoms sooner. Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor; get treated today so you can start feeling like yourself again quickly.
What is a yeast infection?
A yeast infection is a fungal infection that affects the vagina. It is also known, medically, as candidiasis. A yeast infection occurs when yeast and bacteria present naturally in the vagina become unbalanced.
For most, yeast cells multiply rapidly, resulting in symptoms that can vary in severity depending on the patient and the duration of the infection prior to treatment.
What are the symptoms?
In most instances, a yeast infection is a mild to moderate illness that does not require extensive treatment or a stay in the hospital.
The most common symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- Vaginal itching
- Swelling
- Burning during urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Redness
- Rash
- Whiteish-yellow discharge that often appears lumpy
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit Oxford Urgent Care today for prompt treatment.
What causes a yeast imbalance?
Various factors can cause the yeast in your vagina to become unbalanced.
The most common reasons you may experience a yeast infection include:
- A weakened immune system
- Pregnancy
- Antibiotic consumption for a separate illness, as they often decrease the number of good bacteria in the body, including the vagina
- Stress
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- A hormonal change, especially related to your menstrual cycle
How do you treat a yeast infection?
Yeast infections are easily diagnosed through a pelvic exam. Cells may be collected from the infection to confirm infection in the lab.
After a positive test result, treatment may involve medication that spans over the course of 1 to 7 days. They may include antifungal cream, ointment, vaginal suppository, or oral tablet. Symptoms should lessen quickly following the beginning of treatment. Your infection should subside within 2 weeks.
At Oxford Urgent Care, we offer urgent care services for conditions and illnesses like yeast infections on a walk-in or appointment basis seven days a week. If you have questions about treatment, contact us today; otherwise, just walk in. We are here to help you feel better sooner.