Complications of untreated yeast infection
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Complications of Untreated Yeast Infection: Health Risks and Outcomes
Recurrent Infections and Chronic Discomfort
Untreated yeast infections, particularly vaginal candidiasis, can lead to recurrent episodes. This means that individuals may experience repeated infections, which can cause ongoing symptoms such as itching, burning, abnormal discharge, and discomfort during sexual activity. These persistent symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and may become increasingly difficult to manage over time 16.
Progression to More Severe Infections
If a yeast infection is not treated, it can progress beyond the initial site. In immunocompromised individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. This can result in more serious complications like esophageal involvement, ulcerations, and even fungemia (a fungal infection in the bloodstream), which can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed 2356.
Increased Risk of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and Other Complications
For women, untreated vaginal yeast infections can increase the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious infection of the reproductive organs. PID can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and other long-term health issues. Additionally, untreated infections may make individuals more susceptible to acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to the disruption of the normal vaginal flora and mucosal barriers .
Life-Threatening Outcomes in Vulnerable Populations
In certain populations, such as neonates (newborns) and patients undergoing major surgeries or cancer treatments, untreated yeast infections can be particularly dangerous. Neonatal fungemia, especially from rare yeast species, is associated with high mortality rates. Risk factors include low birth weight, prematurity, and the use of central catheters. In these cases, untreated infections can rapidly become invasive and fatal 345.
Prolonged Hospitalization and Increased Mortality
Patients who develop yeast infections after major surgeries, such as esophagectomy, face higher rates of complications, longer hospital stays, more frequent intensive care unit readmissions, and increased mortality. The presence of underlying conditions like diabetes further raises these risks. Untreated infections in these settings can significantly reduce one-year survival rates .
Conclusion
Untreated yeast infections can lead to a range of complications, from recurrent and chronic symptoms to severe, life-threatening systemic infections, especially in vulnerable individuals. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent these adverse outcomes and protect overall health 123456.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic