Simple, accurate health tests for the home and the workplace.
Did you know that if left untreated for too long, thrush can cause a weakened immune system? If this happens then there is the potential for infection to spread to other parts of your body.
Luckily, there are plenty of treatments and remedies that will help you treat thrush. Read on to find out more about how to treat thrush in women and make sure that you’re as healthy as you can be!
Thrush, sometimes known as a yeast infection, is caused by the growth of the Candida Albicans’ fungus. It can affect both men and women at various stages of their lives. It typically affects the vagina but can also be found in the mouth or other areas of the body such as the armpits, groin or between your fingers.
Whilst the symptoms can be uncomfortable, it can be easily treated when you identify the problem.
The symptoms of thrush depend on where on the body it has developed. The symptoms of vaginal thrush include:
Meanwhile, the symptoms of oral thrush include:
You should speak to your GP, or go to a sexual health clinic if you are suffering from thrush and one of the following statements is true:
When you visit your GP they will want to rule out the possibility of other infections. Your doctor or nurse may take a swab of the discharge from the infected area and examine your skin to double-check your symptoms before prescribing treatment
After getting confirmation that you are dealing with thrush, you will need an antifungal medicine. These can come in tablet, cream or pessary form to relieve irritation
After you start treatment, the thrush should start to clear up within 7 to 14 days.
If you are someone who suffers with thrush more than 4 times in 12 months then your treatment can take up to 6 months. A GP will be able to help you identifiy what is causing the issue and will give you recommendations on how to deal with the issue.
There are many natural remedies that have been shared as more is learned about thrush.
If you’ve had issues with thrush medication in the past, then these remedies might be the next step for you.
The items used in these treatment options are typically cheaper than standard medication and can be found lying around the house. Their effectiveness can vary from person to person and a lot of the evidence that these work are from stories.
We always recommend going to your GP for help first.
Here are 3 ways to treat thrush in women naturally:
Usually, doctors and nurses will recommend that you stay away from perfumed oils and lotions as they can actually cause yeast infections. Yet, tea tree oil is a naturally occuring product and is pH balanced unlike a large number of shower gels.
Using warm water to soothe the itching and adding a few drops of tea tree oil can help tackle thrush infections.
Many studies have been carried out to determine whether coconut oil is a good alternative to deal with thrush. The outcome of these studies say that coconut oil should be used in the treatment of fungal infections. So how do you use it?
For mouth infections, warm the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds and, when cool enough, swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and then avoid drinking or eating for at least 30 minutes
For skin infections, it can be used like a standard OTC or prescription cream. Rub a small amount onto the affected areas and leave it to soak in.
For vaginal infections it can be a bit more difficult. Many standard methods for treating vaginal thrush come with applicators to make your life easier. If you’re planning on using coconut oil, the best workaround would be to lightly coat a tampon with coconut oil and use it to directly apply the oil to the infection site.
Before using coconut oil vaginally please check with your GP.
By taking probiotics you can introduce healthy and friendly bacteria. Things such as natural yogurt contain helpful bacteria can aid in restoring a healthy balance of yeast and bacteria. The yogurt must contain Lactobacillus as it is an ingredient that can help fight vaginal yeast infections.
It is important that if you choose to use yogurt, you avoid anything that contains natural sweeteners as it can cause yeast to multiply and make your infection worse.
You face the same issue with yogurt as you do with coconut oil. Some tips for applying natural yogurt to deal with thrush are:
Yes, men have to deal with thrush just like women and can be treated in similar ways. Always speak to your doctor about treatment options before trying to solve the issue on your own.
Thrush is caused by the growth of too much yeast. Chances of developing thrush increase if:
There are a number of things you can do to prevent thrust from returning:
Whilst thrush might be triggered by sexual intercourse, it is not defined as an STI. Your partner does not need to get checked unless they are also dealing with symptoms. Thrush is caused by fungus and not bacteria, antibiotics are not suitable. Instead, you need to look into anti-fungal medication.
Thrush is something that can affect anyone at any age and there are plenty of options for treating the issue. Luckily it is easily treatable with medication that you can be advised on by your GP. At Home Health we are dedicated to providing you with reliable thrush treatements, and give you the choice of tablet or cream form.
We also have an extensive catalogue of feminine care and hygiene products to keep you healthy. If you have any questions then please get in touch with our team for expert advice and answers to your queries.
