Candidiasis |
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DESCRIPTION
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Also known as a yeast infection, vaginal candidiasis (can-dih-DYE-ah-sis) is a very common infection of the vagina that causes discharge, itching, and swelling. It is not serious and, with treatment, usually goes away in about 2 weeks. Many women get more repeated yeast infections.
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CAUSES
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The infection is caused by a type of yeast or fungus called Candida. This yeast lives in your mouth, vagina, and rectum all the time; but it sometimes gets out of control and causes an infection. Women who are pregnant or have trouble with their blood sugar (diabetes) can easily get a yeast infection. Medicines like birth control pills or antibiotics also make the infection more likely.
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SYMPTOMS
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The main symptom is a thick white discharge from the vagina that may look like cottage cheese and may have a bad smell. Swelling, redness, and itching around the vagina are common. Some women may feel burning when they urinate.
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CARE
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Your doctor will examine you and take a sample of the discharge. You will probably need medicine to kill the yeast. If you are given yeast medicine, use it until it is all gone, even if the condition improves. The medicine is usually given as a cream or suppository that you put inside your vagina.
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