Thrush: Symptoms, Treatment & UK Online Doctor
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Thrush is a yeast infection — itchy, sore, with thick white discharge.
- Single-dose fluconazole tablet or clotrimazole pessary cures most cases.
- Recurrent thrush (>4/year) may need longer treatment courses.
- Triggers: antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, immunosuppression.
- An online GP can prescribe and review.
Symptoms
- Itching or soreness around the vulva
- Thick, white, 'cottage cheese' discharge
- Stinging on urination or sex
- Redness and swelling
Treatment
- Single-dose oral fluconazole 150 mg.
- Clotrimazole 500 mg vaginal pessary.
- Clotrimazole cream for external itching.
- Recurrent thrush: induction-maintenance regimens (e.g. fluconazole every 3 days for 3 doses, then weekly).
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about vaginal candidiasis (thrush).
How an online doctor can help
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This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
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