Sore down below.

[Kirstw1806]

Its a bit embarassing but i keep getting sore and itchy. The first time i got checked out at the clinic and they said it was thrush (this was sep last year) i got the pill and cream but it keeps coming back and im swollen on one side. Its really uncomfortable because i have quite a physical job with a lot of lifting. Could it be something other than thrush?

Thrush can be a reoccuring problem. I can imagine it will become increasingly sore and irritated, as well as sweaty, if you're doing a lot of lifting and physical work. I guess the only sensible option is to go back to the drs or clinic to find out. Have you tried all the usual preventative measures? Cotton keks, looking into your diet etc

I have localised eczema on one side (like in the public hair area down there) that was diagnosed as thrush for years, until someone recognised it was on the outside. It can swell when it's inflamed also. I have steroid ointment called Betnovate that I put on now if it flares up. I only need a tiny bit every few weeks and it stops it straightaway. You can only use it on outer skin.
Some of the panty liners and pads, especially the scented ones, can cause a flare up too.
You might see will the GP prescribe a cream for the outside when it flares up.

I also had eczema that was misdiagnosed as thrush for over a year. Go back to your gp.

Can I ask you age?

I am 26. I never thought it might be eczema. I get dry skin on my hands and arms so i guess it could be that.

I have genital psoriasis that was also misdiagnosed and treated as thrush - almost 20 years before I finally clicked what it was.

Are you avoiding all the triggers for thrush like tight knickers, tight trousers, thongs, tights, sex with a man who may have it too, too much sugar, bubble baths, etc?

Watch your diet - thrush can be caused by a recurring candida imbalance in your gut. It feeds on sugars (potatoes and mushrooms are also culprits) so you tend to crave more sugary, refined foods and so the cycle continues.

Cut out refined carbs, white floury products, sugars for a few days and see if that helps.

And if you have a partner, they need to be treated too.

Took me ages to work out why I kept getting thrush - turned out it was the cheap toilet roll that DH insists on buying (scented - just why???)

If it is thrush also avoid panty liners, go knicker-less at night and def get your partner treated with the pill.

Thanks for the advice didnt realise my partner could need treating aswell 😕