Yeast Infection
A yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) is a common fungal infection. Learn how symptoms differ from UTIs and when NeuMed urgent care can evaluate and treat.
Overview
Yeast infections are caused by overgrowth of Candida fungus, most commonly affecting the vagina (vaginal candidiasis).
Symptoms can overlap with UTIs and other conditions — evaluation helps confirm the cause before treatment.
NeuMed can evaluate vaginal symptoms and discuss treatment options at Houston-area clinics.
Symptoms
Common yeast infection symptoms include:
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
- Redness or swelling of the vulva
- Burning during urination or intercourse
- General discomfort in the vaginal area
Causes
Candida normally lives in the body in small amounts. Overgrowth can be triggered by antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, immune changes, or irritation.
Yeast infections are not classified as STIs, though sexual activity can sometimes contribute to irritation or symptom flare.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is often based on symptoms and exam. A provider may perform a brief exam and, when needed, a swab or test to confirm yeast versus other causes such as bacterial vaginosis or STIs.
Treatment
Antifungal medications — creams, suppositories, or oral tablets — are the standard treatment when a yeast infection is confirmed or strongly suspected.
Avoid self-treating repeatedly without evaluation if symptoms return — recurrent symptoms may need testing to rule out other conditions.
Can urgent care treat yeast infection?
Urgent care or women's health evaluation is appropriate when symptoms are new, severe, or not responding to prior treatment.
NeuMed can evaluate vaginal symptoms and discuss treatment during a walk-in visit.
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency care for severe abdominal pain with fever, or if you are pregnant and have significant symptoms — follow your OB's guidance.
FAQs
How is a yeast infection different from a UTI?
Yeast infections often cause itching, irritation, and thick discharge without the burning urgency typical of UTIs. Only testing and exam can confirm the cause when symptoms overlap.
Can urgent care treat a yeast infection?
Yes. A provider can evaluate symptoms and discuss treatment options when a yeast infection is likely or confirmed.
Related services
- Urinary Tract Infections UTI’s or Urinary Tract Infections affect more than 8 million adults every year. Urinary tract infections are often painful and annoying, and they can interfere with day-to-day living.
- Women's Health NeuMed has always been committed to providing high-quality women’s health services since we first opened our doors. Our clinics are open later and longer, offering extended hours to ensure you can get fast and reliable women’s care for a wide range of health needs, including:
- STD Testing Sometimes, the most uncomfortable doctors visits are the most important ones. Your local NeuMed Modern Urgent Care Clinic offer testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), as well as treatment.
- On-Site Lab Services Strep throat? Urinary Tract Infection? Pregnant? We'll put your mind at ease by giving you a test in our on-site lab. We'll also give you choices for treatment or, if necessary, refer you to a specialist.
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