Hot Summer Days Giving You the Itch?

Aug 23, 2022 Thrush OTC

There are numerous myths surrounding thrush but what is universally known is that it can be uncomfortable and is something that needs to be addressed sooner, rather than later. It’s not something to be ignored. Thrush is unpleasant at the best of times but during the hotter months can be more common and no less irritating.

 

What is Thrush?

 

Thrush is a yeast infection that is fairly common and both men and women can be affected. While it is usually not harmful thrush is something that will keep coming back if not treated effectively. Often, Canesten is the treatment most recommended over-the-counter remedy in the first instance.

 

What are the Symptoms of Thrush?

 

The symptoms of thrush can vary from person to person, as can the severity of those symptoms. Some people don’t experience noticeable symptoms at all while others aren’t so fortunate. 

 

Thrush Symptoms for Women

 

When women have thrush they often experience soreness, irritation and itching around their vagina. Discomfort and a stinging sensation during sexual intercourse or when urinating are not uncommon. Women may experience a white discharge. This doesn’t usually have an odour.

 

Thrush Symptoms in Men

 

Like women, men with thrush may also experience a white discharge (much like cottage cheese), although men might also experience an unpleasant smell when they have thrush. Redness, burning and soreness around the head of the penis and underneath the foreskin can occur. This may also result in men having difficulty pulling back their foreskin. 

 

You can find out more about thrush via the NHS health page here.

 

Thrush Doesn’t Just Occur in Intimate Areas

 

As thrush is a yeast infection it can affect other areas of the skin, not just your more intimate areas. Look out for a painful rash that is red and itchy and may have a white or yellow discharge. Common areas to watch include between your fingers, your groin area and your armpits. 

 

The symptoms of thrush can be unpleasant but thankfully are treatable.

 

What Causes Thrush?

 

Many things can result in thrush. This includes medical conditions and medications, pregnancy and even your underwear.

 

Medical Conditions Can Cause or Contribute to Thrush

 

Yeast infections like sugar as sugar helps them to develop and grow. When you are diabetic, particularly if your level of control isn’t optimum, you tend to have higher levels of sugar in your urine, saliva and even sweat. By unwittingly creating a perfect breeding ground for candida those with diabetes may find that they are more at risk of repeated thrush infections. 

 

Some diabetes medications can remove excess sugar via the urine. While this can be a highly effective treatment for some, it can again make thrush more likely. Over-the-counter treatments can help while you discuss your treatment with your diabetes specialist if this is likely the case. 

 

If you suspect your existing medication or treatments may be causing thrush please discuss this with your GP before making any changes.

 

Thrush During Pregnancy

 

If lack of sleep, discomfort, an increased risk of haemorrhoids and stretch marks weren’t enough, you are also more likely to get thrush when you are pregnant. This is due to the change in oestrogen levels (female hormones). Recurrent thrush cases are not uncommon during pregnancy.

 

Please speak to your midwife or GP before starting thrush treatment if you are pregnant. While some creams and pessaries are fine for use during pregnancy, anti-thrush tablets are not for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. A GP will advise the best course of action.

 

Underwear Can Be Responsible for Thrush Cases

 

Your underwear can help to create the perfect environment for candida to flourish. Tight undies and especially those made from nylon and similar materials are to be avoided where possible. This is because they are less breathable and trap in heat and moisture, increasing the risk of thrush.

 

Is Thrush a Sexually Transmitted Infection?

 

Thrush being an STI is a common misconception. It is not a sexually transmitted infection however thrush can be set off by sexual intercourse. This is probably where the misunderstanding comes from. That and the fact that it largely affects the more intimate areas. This is mostly due to the fact the candida fungus which causes thrush is particularly fond of warm and moist areas. Genital areas fit the bill perfectly.

 

Do I need to see a GP for Thrush?

 

While pretty common, you should see a GP or someone at your local sexual health clinic if you keep getting thrush (more than four times in twelve months). They will help you identify what is causing the issue and treat it accordingly. Initially, over-the-counter treatments and prescription strength thrush treatment can often be enough to clear things up, offering much-needed relief.

 

Treatments for Thrush are Readily Available

 

If you suspect you have thrush our over-the-counter thrush treatment products would usually be the first option. Our pharmacists are happy to talk to you about prescription medication for thrush if appropriate. 

 

In Conclusion

 

Thrush is fairly common. Many people have it at least once during their lives while others might be more prone to it. It’s not bad, wrong or anything to be embarrassed about. Don’t suffer in silence. Our Simply Meds Online range of OTC treatments can help and our pharmacists are on hand if you need prescription-level treatment.