Also known as
Yeast infection
Description
1. One of the most common infections causing vaginal discharge is Candidiasis.
2. Candidiasis or 'yeast infection' is a fungus. The vast majority of cases are caused by Candida albicans; the Candida species normally resides in the vaginal flora of approximately 25% of women.
3. Many bacteria normally live in the vagina. Under normal circumstances, there is a balance among the different types of bacteria. If the balance is disrupted, an overgrowth of one of the organisms may occur. When the balance tips in favor of Candida, a vaginal yeast infection may occur. Antibiotics can kill off the good bacteria in the vagina, and antibiotics are a common cause of yeast infections. Also, anything that stresses the immune system, such as diabetes, may also cause a yeast infection.
Causes
1. Suppressed immune system
2. Antibiotics
3. Diabetes
4. Hormonal factors
5. Stress
6. Steroid use
7. Pregnancy
8. Obesity
Symptoms
1. Cottage cheese-type discharge, white or whitish-grey
2. Vaginal itching
3. Redness and burning on the outside of vagina
4. Painful intercourse
5. Painful urination
Diagnosis
1. KOH (fungal) slide shows yeast
2. Fungal culture
Similar conditions
1. Bacterial vaginosis
2. Chlamydia
3. Gonorrhea
4. Trichomoniasis
Treatment
1. Vaginal suppositories, e.g., Monistat, Lotrimin, Femstat, Terazol
2. Diflucan-one or two doses by mouth
3. Recurrent cases: Gentian violet 1%, boric acid, Povidone-iodine douching, dietary changes
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