Patient's question:
I am very worried about my health. I used to be very healthy, but I don't know what the reason is. Since last week, I've been feeling severe pain down there every time I go to the bathroom. I secretly went to the hospital for a check-up, and the doctor said it was a Candida infection.What kind of help I need: I want to ask what I should do in this situation.
Doctor's answer:
Candida is a type of fungus, and the most common cause of vulvovaginitis is Candida albicans. This fungus is oval-shaped, composed of buds and cellular root-like extensions forming pseudohyphae. Candida has weak resistance to heat; it can perish after being heated to 60℃ for 1 hour. However, it has strong resistance to dryness, sunlight, ultraviolet rays, and chemical agents. Ketoconazole or clotrimazole can be taken orally to eliminate intestinal Candida, or miconazole can be applied externally. During treatment, sexual activity should be avoided, and underwear should be changed daily, washed, and boiled to sterilize. After one course of treatment, a fungal test should be negative. Subsequent tests should also be negative after each menstrual cycle. Continuous and stable treatment for three courses is required to be considered cured.