Yeast infection vs UTI: How to tell the difference?
Experiencing itching and unusual discharge down there? The worst part is understanding why you’re having the symptoms. You could be wondering, “Could the discharge be a UTI symptom?” or “What does UTI discharge look like?” or “Do I have yeast infection?”
The fact is that UTIs and yeast infections are different infections altogether. Their symptoms may affect the same area in general, but they’re distinct. Let us understand yeast infection vs UTI, and difference between its symptoms, and causes.
What is yeast infection?
Yeast infection is a fungal infection that affects the vagina. It causes irritation, discharge and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva — the tissues at the vaginal opening.
Here are some of the common symptoms which can range from mild to intense:
Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating
Redness and swelling of the vulva
Vaginal pain and soreness
Vaginal rash
Thick, white, odour-free vaginal discharge resembling the consistency of cottage cheese
Watery vaginal discharge.
Causes of Yeast Infection
Most yeast infections are commonly caused due to the fungus candida albicans. However, other types of candida fungus can also cause yeast infections which could be more difficult to treat and may need aggressive therapies.
Your vagina naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast and bacteria. There are certain bacteria present that prevent an overgrowth of yeast. However, when that balance is disrupted, it results in an overgrowth of candida. This results in yeast infection.
Here are some of the causes of this overgrowth:
Use of antibiotics, which causes an imbalance in natural vaginal flora
Pregnancy
Uncontrolled diabetes
A compromised immune system
If you’re on hormone therapy that increases oestrogen levels or taking oral contraceptives.
What is UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system such as the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. However, most UTIs affect the lower urinary tract, which is the bladder and the urethra.
Here are some symptoms of UTI:
Pain in the pelvic region in women
Having a strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away
A burning sensation when urinating
Frequent urination, and passing small amounts of urine
Cloudy urine
Urine that appears red, bright pink or deep reddish, these could be signs of having blood in the urine
Strong-smelling urine.
Causes of UTI
1. Infection of the bladder:
Typically, UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to spread in the bladder. Usually, the urinary system keeps out bacteria but sometimes this defence fails. And when that happens, bacteria may take hold and grow into a full-blown infection in the urinary tract.2. Infection of the urethra:
When bacteria spreads from the anus to the urethra, it infects the urethra. It can also be caused by sexually transmitted infections. This includes herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma. This is common because women's urethras are close to the vagina.Yeast infection vs UTI
Now that we have looked at both the conditions is detail, let us look at the symptoms of bladder infection vs yeast infection.
UTI symptoms |
Yeast infection symptoms |
Sensation of pain and burning when urinating |
Experiencing pain when urinating or having intercourse |
Having the urge to urinate frequently, more than usual, even when you don’t have to pass urine |
Having itchiness in the vagina or vulva |
Having to wake up from your sleep often to urinate |
Dealing with swollen vagina and vulva area |
Discoloured or cloudy urine that may be red or pink from blood |
Feeling sore or having pain in the affected area |
Urine with strong odour |
Vaginal discharge that is thick, milky, odour-free and resembling the consistency of cottage cheese |
Fever or chills, vomiting, or nausea which could be signs of a serious infection |
|
Pain in your pelvis, especially if you’re a woman |
Irrespective of the infection, it is important to maintain proper intimate hygiene and using panty liners is recommended to manage vaginal discharge. Liners are a great way to maintain hygiene and stay dry and comfortable. Try Always’ Extra Protect panty liners which is designed for high flexibility. Its extra long size offers extra coverage, while its breathable and feminine design offers trusted dryness with long-lasting everyday freshness. This ensures that you feel dry and great, always.
When should you see a doctor?
You must consult a doctor when you notice any of the above symptoms. Having your symptoms diagnosed and treated will help prevent them from getting worse. Typically, UTIs need a course of antibiotic medication, while yeast infections need antifungal treatment. You doctor will best prescribe the treatment depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Both UTIs and yeast infections typically resolve within days or a few weeks after you take the appropriate medications. Make sure to take the prescribed medication for the entire recommended length of time to prevent the infection from returning.
Takeaway
In the case of yeast infection vs UTI, the symptoms for both affect the same area in general, concentrating on the vaginal and vulva area. If you notice any of the symptoms, immediately talk to a doctor to get the requited treatment.
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FAQs
1. How do you know if you have a UTI or yeast infection?
To differentiate between yeast infection vs UTI, it’s best to look at the symptoms. With a UTI, its symptoms typically affect urination. Its common symptoms are a burning sensation when you urinate, having the urge to urinate more frequently than usual, and cloudy urine. The symptoms of yeast infection include pain when urinating, but you'll also experience pain and itchiness around the vagina and vulva, and thick, white clumpy discharge, among others.
2. Will a UTI or yeast infection go away on its own?
While it is true that some yeast infections and UTIs that are extremely mild in nature do away on their own, it is not advised to leave the symptoms unnoticed. You may risk worsening the condition or leading it to other serious conditions.
3. Can a UTI seem like a yeast infection?
In the case of yeast infection vs UTI, it is possible to mistake one for another. That’s because their symptoms may occur in the same general area, but they're distinct. UTI symptoms typically affect urination, causing burning sensation when you urinate, or having the urge to urinate more often than usual. Yeast infections, on the other hand, include symptoms such as itchiness and pain in the vagina and vulva area, and discharge that is thick, milky, odour-free and resembling the consistency of cottage cheese.
Disclaimer:
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