Yeast infections and UTIs have similar symptoms but different causes. Yeast infections are caused by an overproduction of yeast, while UTIs are caused by bad bacteria entering the urinary tract. Both can be treated with medication and good hygiene practices.
A yeast infection and a urinary tract infection (UTI) often have similar symptoms, such as pain or irritation in the pelvic area and a burning sensation when urinating. However, they can differ widely in other symptoms and causes. Yeast infections are usually caused by the deterioration of the good bacteria inside the vagina, which allows for an increase in yeast production. A UTI is caused by bad bacteria entering the urinary tract. Yeast infections can cause a burning sensation or itching in the inner and outer vagina, pain, and unusually colored or strong-smelling discharge, while a urinary tract infection can cause cloudy or foul-smelling urine, tenderness in the lower abdomen, and a increased urge to urinate.
A urinary tract infection is an infection that can occur in the kidneys, bladder, urethra, or ureters and is usually caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and then invade internal areas of the urinary tract. A yeast infection often results from a dramatic increase in candida or yeast. The healthy bacteria that the body produces naturally generally keep the overproduction of yeast at bay; however, a weakened immune system, some medications, foreign substances, and some diseases can decrease the amount of healthy bacteria and allow yeast to multiply. When a woman develops a urinary tract infection that doesn’t go away on its own, she will typically be prescribed an antibiotic. Large doses of antibiotics can kill both good and bad bacteria, causing a yeast infection.
It’s not uncommon for some women to confuse a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection, because sometimes a cycle of urinary and yeast infection can coincide. A urinary tract infection is typically treated with antibiotics, which can lead to a yeast infection, so similar symptoms can sometimes cause confusion. When UTIs become frequent, which can happen when the immune system is weakened, the cycle will continue.
Both infections can be painful and irritating, but simple cases are often easy to cure. UTIs are almost always treated with antibiotics. Yeast infections are usually treatable with over-the-counter creams, but may require stronger prescription medications. Medical professionals may also recommend that the patient avoid certain feminine cleaning products, maintain proper hygiene, and urinate frequently, especially before and after intercourse. People taking antibiotics are often encouraged to eat plain yogurt with active cultures to help restore the natural bacteria in the digestive tract and reduce the chances of developing a yeast infection.
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