Is it a yeast infection or a bacterial infection? Vaginal
bacterial infections cannot be treated with OTC products, but
there are OTC options for yeast infections. Also known as
candidiasis, yeast infections are caused by a yeast-like fungus
called Candida albicans. Some traces of Candida are present in
the body. When an imbalance occurs, however, Candida can
multiply, and the symptoms of candidiasis appear. For instance,
many patients who are treated with antibiotics ultimately will
develop a yeast infection. The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention reports that ~75% of all women will have =1 vaginal
yeast infections in their lifetime. Symptoms of Yeast Infections
Common symptoms of yeast infections include the following:
Although these infections are easily treated, it is important to
visit a physician if a patient has never been treated for this
condition. Many vaginal problems that can manifest with the same
symptoms as a yeast infection must be ruled out-eg, sexually
transmitted infections such as