UTI vs yeast infection is a subject that majorities of women have either with each other or with their physician. This is because UTIs (Urinary Tract infection) and yeast infections can have similar symptoms, but require different treatments.
As such, it is paramount to understand the difference between them. The fact is that most women experience a yeast infection or/and urinary tract infections at some point during their lifetime. It is advisable to see a doctor if you think you have either one of these virginal infections.
The Difference Between Urinary Tract Infection And Yeats Infection
1. Yeast Infection
A virginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina, which causes burning of the vulva (the area around the vagina) and itching. This disease is caused by an overgrowth of the Fungus Candida.
Its symptoms include:
• Thick white discharge
• Itching
• Burning, swelling, redness of the vagina and the vulva
• Pain when urinating
• Pain during sex
• Soreness
Yeast infections are easy to treat; however, it is important to see your doctor the moment you think you have an infection.
Statistics On Yeast Infection
According to the National Women Health Association’s report, mentioned that women and girls of all ages can get a virginal yeast infection. It continued to say that three out of four women would have a yeast infection at some point in their life. Again, almost half of women have two or more infections. Vaginal yeast infections are rare before puberty and after menopause.
2. UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)
UTI is an infection that affects the urinary tract. This infection is caused by various small organisms such as fungi, viruses and bacteria. The most common cause is bacteria; according to the National Women Health Association’s report. An infection in the urethra is called urethritis. A bladder infection is called cystitis. Bacteria may travel up the ureters to multiply and infect the kidneys. A kidney infection is called pyelonephritis.
Its symptoms include:
• Intense and frequent urge to urinate
• Pain when urinating
• Burning feeling and itchiness
• The urine may look cloudy, dark or bloody and at times have a foul smell
Because bacteria are the main cause of this infection, treatment is done through bacteria-fighting medications known as antibiotics or antimicrobials. It is crucial to visit your doctor if you think you have UTI.
Statistics On UTI
It is very important to note that symptoms vary by gender and age. Urinary tract infection is the second most common type of infection in the body according to the same report. It actually mentions that there are about 8.1 million visits to a doctor in U.S. per year. It also mentioned that women are the most prone to get UTI for anatomical reasons. The first reason being that, women’s urethra is short of which bacteria can quickly access the bladder. Secondly, women’s urethras opening are closer to the source of bacteria (i.e. the vagina and anus).
In a nutshell, UTI and Yeast infection offers similar symptoms. As such, if you think you have any of the above infections, it is advisable to seek medical attention or diagnosis first before you seek treatment. At the same time, it is wise to have the UTI vs Yeast Infection talks with your doctor to know more about the treatment options available and preventive measures.