How to speed up yeast infection healing

Why does a yeast infection not go away?

Antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, can often treat yeast infections. However, some infections can become resistant, resulting in recurrent symptoms or a yeast infection that seems like it is not going away. Doctors refer to such infections as chronic.

A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching and painful burning around the genitals. Yeast infections typically go away following treatment with antifungal medications. However, some infections may persist or recur despite treatment.

This article outlines the potential causes of chronic yeast infections and provides information on when to contact a doctor. It also lists some home remedies and medical treatments for yeast infections.

A type of fungus called Candida is responsible for most yeast infections. These fungi usually live harmlessly on the skin and mucous membranes. However, certain factors can cause them to multiply out of control, causing an infection.

Candida thrives in warm, moist places, so the genitals are a common site of infection.

Sometimes, the symptoms of a yeast infection may persist or recur despite a person receiving medical treatment. Below are some reasons why this may happen.

More time is necessary

The medication may need more time to work. It can take at least 7 days for an antifungal medication to eradicate a yeast infection. A person may need to continue taking the medication for longer to reduce the risk of the infection returning.

Treatment resistance

The infection could be treatment resistant. Some yeast may be more resilient to antifungal treatment.

This resilient yeast will go on to multiply while the less resilient yeast dies off. This process may result in an infection that is resistant to treatment.

Genetic susceptibility

The person may have a genetic susceptibility. Familial candidiasis (FC) is an inherited tendency to develop Candida infections. People with FC typically begin experiencing chronic or recurrent yeast infections in early childhood.

Weakened immune system

The person may have a weakened immune system. Certain conditions can weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections.

Some conditions that may increase the likelihood of recurrent yeast infections include:

• AIDS
• severe combined immunodeficiency
• autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED)
• autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES)

It may not be a yeast infection

Many conditions mimic the symptoms of a yeast infection. Because of this, it is important to seek medical care if symptoms persist or worsen.

Some conditions that may cause symptoms similar to those of a vaginal yeast infection include:

Many infections can cause itching and burning in and around the genital area. One of the most common is bacterial vaginosis, which is a type of bacterial infection. Such infections require antibiotic treatment.

If symptoms do not respond to treatments for a yeast infection, it is best to contact a doctor. They will be able to order tests to confirm the diagnosis and advise on a suitable treatment plan.

Learn more about how long it takes a yeast infection to go away.

It is best for a person to contact a doctor if:

• they are experiencing a yeast infection for the first time
• the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily functioning
• the symptoms have not completely gone away with home treatments
• they have had a yeast infection before, but the symptoms are different this time
• they experience symptoms that are not consistent with a yeast infection, such as:
• they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or nursing, as some home treatments may not be suitable

In most cases, the primary treatment for a yeast infection is an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication. These are available as topical creams, ointments, or suppositories.

An OTC antifungal treatment should begin working within a few days. The symptoms should slowly improve over the course of 12 weeks.

Some people may experience recurrent yeast infections, which can involve more than one yeast infection in a year. A person may need to take medication for longer if this is the case.

It is best for a person who suspects that they have a yeast infection to contact their doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Applying a vaginal anti-itch cream may help ease the pain and itching until the treatment takes effect, but it will not cure the underlying infection.

Some home remedies that may speed up the healing or reduce the risk of contracting another infection include:

• Taking probiotics: Probiotics promote the growth of healthy bacteria. Having an abundance of healthy bacteria may help prevent yeast overgrowth, though there is insufficient research to support this claim.
• Practicing good hygiene: Certain hygiene practices can change the pH of the vagina, making it more susceptible to infections. People should avoid:
  • douching
  • using perfumed soaps on or near the vagina
  • applying deodorants to the delicate skin of the vulva
• Wearing appropriate underwear: Avoiding wearing tight or restrictive underwear can help prevent heat from becoming trapped close to the skin. It is best to opt for loose, cotton underwear that allows air to circulate around the genitals. This will help reduce the risk of infections.
• Keeping the skin of the genitals dry: A person should keep the skin of their genitals dry to prevent the overgrowth of yeast. For example, people should avoid sitting in a wet bathing suit. It is also best to gently pat dry with a clean towel after taking a bath or shower.
• Taking OTC medications: Some oral medications contain both a probiotic and a pain reliever. Although these will not cure a yeast infection, they may ease itching and help speed up the healing.

The type of medical treatment a person receives for a yeast infection will depend on whether the infection is sudden (acute) or persistent (chronic).

Acute yeast infection

An acute yeast infection is one that appears suddenly. A person who experiences such an infection may benefit from an OTC antifungal treatment.

A pharmacist may recommend one of the following:

• a single-dose antifungal tablet containing the antifungal agent fluconazole
• topical antifungal creams or ointments
• an antifungal suppository

Each antifungal formula may have a different required treatment period. A person should follow the packet instructions or contact their pharmacist for advice.

Chronic yeast infection

A chronic yeast infection is one that does not go away or goes away and returns.

The same treatments that work for acute yeast infections may work for chronic infections. However, a doctor may recommend a higher dosage of medication or a regular repeat dosage to prevent reinfection.

People who experience recurrent yeast infections may need to take maintenance treatment for about 6 months. People who experience such infections should also seek treatment from a doctor as opposed to treating the infection with OTC medications.

It is possible for a person to transmit a yeast infection to a sexual partner. The partner may then transmit it back to the person later on. In order to break this cycle, both partners should see a doctor for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Lifestyle remedies can also help reduce the risk of future infections. These include:

• not douching or using fragranced soaps on or around the genitals
• keeping the skin of the genitals dry
• taking a probiotic

Learn more about how to get rid of a yeast infection.

View the slideshow below for photos of yeast infections.

Here are some frequently asked questions about yeast infections.

What does it mean if a yeast infection does not go away?

A yeast infection may not go away if treatment has not had enough time to take effect. Treatment resistance, genetic susceptibility, and weakened immune systems can also affect how a yeast infection resolves.

How long is too long for a yeast infection?

With the right treatment, yeast infections can resolve within 12 weeks. For persistent yeast infections, or for symptoms that resemble a yeast infection but which do not respond to treatment, it is important to contact a doctor. The doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and advise on treatments that may help.

Can a yeast infection get worse not better?

If a yeast infection does not respond to home remedies or OTC treatments, it may worsen. It is best to contact a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment plan.

Most yeast infections require treatment with antifungal medication. These medications should take a few days to begin working, though a person may only experience full symptom relief after 12 weeks.

Certain home remedies can speed up the healing process and prevent the risk of recurrent infections. These include wearing loose-fitting underwear, avoiding the use of harsh soaps and deodorants on the genitals, and ensuring that the skin of the genitals remains dry.

A person who experiences persistent or recurrent yeast infections should contact their doctor. They may have a separate or underlying medical condition that requires an alternative treatment approach.

6 ways to make a wound heal faster

Most small wounds heal naturally with time, but home remedies such as aloe vera, antibacterial ointment, or honey may speed up the healing process.

A wound leaves the bodys internal tissues exposed to the external environment. Cuts, blows, or other impacts are common causes.

A person may be able to treat a minor wound at home. However, they should seek medical help if they have a more severe injury that involves broken bones or excessive bleeding.

This article details six things people can try to make their wounds heal faster, and when to see a doctor.

The following are some alternative methods and remedies people can try to make wounds heal faster:

1. Antibacterial ointment

A person can treat a wound with several over-the-counter (OTC) antibacterial ointments, which can help prevent infections. They can also help a wound heal more quickly.

One review of 27 animal model studies showed that antibacterial treatments played a positive role in helping wounds heal faster. However, the review noted that there was a high risk of bias in the findings.

People often use OTC antibacterial ointments for minor wounds, but they may not be necessary. A person may use petroleum jelly, which acts as a barrier to protect the wound beyond a waterproof bandage.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a plant belonging to the cactus family. It contains a substance that is rich in both vitamins and minerals.

Aloe vera contains glucomannan, a substance that helps cellular regeneration and causes the body to produce collagen. This substance is a protein that promotes wound healing.

A 2019 systematic review states that aloe vera and its compounds could improve wound healing. Overall evidence suggests it might be effective for wound healing of first and second-degree burns. The review also indicates that aloe vera could help retain skin moisture and integrity while easing inflammation and preventing ulcers.

A person can apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the wound area. They can also dress the wound in a bandage soaked in aloe vera gel to help with healing.

Learn more about the health benefits of aloe vera here.

3. Honey

Honey has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. People have used the substance in traditional wound-healing recipes for a long time.

A 2016 review states thatlaboratory research suggests honey significantly improves the healing rate of wounds in animals. It also says that it reduced scar formation and inhibited bacterial growth in acute wounds and burns.

In another older 2015 study, honey appeared to heal partial thickness wounds better than other treatments, but caused more infections in post-operative wounds than typical treatments.

A person would need to use medical honey for minor and major wounds after a discussion with a doctor or healthcare professional.

4. Turmeric paste

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the plant of the same name. It contains curcumin, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

One 2016 review suggests that turmeric can be effective in helping wounds heal faster. It showed that the curcumin present in the spice stimulated the production of the growth factors involved in the healing process. It also showed that curcumin accelerated the management of wound restoration.

A 2019 review also showed that curcumin in turmeric could increase collagen production at the wound site. It also states that curcumin promotes the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, which starts the healing process and helps the wound heal more quickly.

A person can mix turmeric with warm water to make a paste. They can then apply the paste to the wound and cover it with a clean bandage.

If a person wishes to try turmeric for a wound, they should limit usage to closed, minor wounds. An open injury would require medical-grade products with a doctors approval.

Learn more about the health benefits of turmeric here.

5. Garlic

Garlic contains the compound allicin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

According to a 2020 review, several clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of garlic in treating wounds. It stated that in preclinical studies, aged garlic extract showed wound healing potential depending on the dosage.

Another study looked at the use of garlic to treat wounds in rats. It revealed that a cream containing 0.4% garlic was an effective way to treat burn wounds, although further human studies are necessary.

Learn more about the health benefits of garlic here.

6. Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains the substance monolaurin, a fatty acid with antimicrobial properties. Fatty acids found in vegetable oils play a large part in helping wounds heal. A person can use coconut oil on a wound to help reduce the risk of contracting an infection.

Learn more about the health benefits of coconut oil here.

A person with an open wound should always follow these steps:

1. Wash the hands with soap and clean water.
2. Remove jewelry and clothing from around the wound.
3. Apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.
4. Clean the wound with clean water and a saline solution once the bleeding has stopped.
5. Examine the wound for foreign objects and dirt.
6. If possible, apply antibiotic ointment to the wound to prevent infection.
7. Pat the wound dry with a clean cloth.
8. Close the wound and apply an adhesive bandage or band-aid.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a person should check their wound every 24 hours. This involves removing the bandages and checking for signs of infection. Afterward, they should disinfect the wound, dry it, and apply a clean adhesive bandage or band-aid.

A closed wound that is not sterile can trap bacteria and may cause further infections. Therefore, if a person has an unclean wound or a wound with an infection, they should leave it open until they can clean it, or the infection clears.

After treating a wound, several methods can promote healing.

Learn more about types of wound healing.

A person can often treat minor wounds at home. However, in some instances, wounds need medical attention.

A person should seek care from a healthcare professional if they experience the following:

• a wound with large, deep, or jagged edges, which may require stitches and cleaning
• a wound that will not stay closed
• a wound that is full of debris that a person cannot remove
• wound resulting from an injury from a dirty, rusty, or contaminated object
• blood spurting from a wound
• a wound that continues to bleed, even after applying pressure
• a wound due to an animal or human bite

A person should also speak with a doctor if their wound has contracted an infection. Signs of a wound acquiring an infection include:

• aches and pains
• the area around the wound is warm
• the wound gives off a yellow or green discharge
• the wound emits an unpleasant odor
• red streaks appear on the skin around the wound
• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting

A doctor will often use antibiotics to treat a wound with an infection. A person may also require a tetanus shot.

People should always complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if infection symptoms are no longer present. This treats the infection fully and prevents bacteria from becoming resistant to the antibiotic.

Learn more about infected wounds here.

Minor open wounds may not require medical treatment. However, people should clean the wound and dress it using a clean bandage. An unclean wound may cause a bacterial infection to occur.

Once the wound is clean, there are several techniques to speed up the healing process. These include the use of antibacterial ointments, turmeric, aloe vera, garlic, and coconut oil.

A person should seek medical help right away if their wound is large. A doctor may use stitches to close the wound and ensure that it is clean.