Candida yeast infections are one of those infections that are typically nothing to be overly worried about but one of those things that make everyday life unpleasant. Candida yeast is a natural organism that lives in our bodies, but at times can get out of control. Understanding candida yeast can be the first step to gaining control of this common infection causing fungus.
Candida yeast is a type of parasitic fungus that inhabits the intestines, genital tract, mouth, esophagus and throat. Normally this fungus lives in healthy balance with the other bacteria and yeasts in the body, however, certain conditions can cause it to multiply weakening the immune system and causing a candida yeast infection called Candidiasis.
When candida yeast infects the vagina it results in vaginitis characterized by large amounts of white, cheesy discharge and intense itching and burning. When candida yeast infects the oral cavity, white sores may form on the tongue, gums and inside the cheeks. In a baby, candida yeast results in white spots of oral thrush that may resemble milk spots. It is most common in babies and in persons with compromised immune symptoms. Virtually all people with AIDS have some type of fungal infection.
Anyone who has been on long-term antibiotic therapy, or has taken antibiotics often, probably has an overgrowth of candida yeast somewhere in the body. Antibiotics weaken the immune system and also destroy the "friendly" bacteria that normally keep candida yeast under control. As candida yeast spreads the fungus releases toxins that weaken the immune system further.
That’s because about seventy-five percent of women will have at least one vaginal candida yeast infection during their lifetime. About half of these women have more than one candida yeast infection. Fortunately, most candida yeast infections aren’t serious especially if you get the right treatment. Symptoms of a candida yeast infection may include vaginal itching, burning, and abnormal discharge that can easily be confused with those of other vaginal infections. A yeast infection, in fact, is one of the most common reasons women see their healthcare providers.
Vaginal yeast infections are usually caused by candida yeast. Candida yeast is usually a harmless part of the vaginal environment, and doesn’t bother you at all. But once in a while, the chemical balance inside the vagina is upset, and an overgrowth of Candida can occur. This is what causes a yeast infection. Yeast infections are not sexually transmitted diseases.
Constipation, diarrhea, colitis, abdominal pain, headaches, bad breath, impotence, memory loss, canker sores, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, nagging cough, acne, night sweats, burning tongue, and white spots on the tongue and in the mouth. Vaginal infections are noted by symptoms such as vaginal itching, Irritated genital skin, White vaginal discharge that is usually curd-like and odorless and Pain or burning in the genital area with urination or sexual intercourse
There are several health measures that can be takeing to reverse the negative affects of candida yeast most of which can be practiced naturally.
Eat plenty of raw vegetables and gluten-free grains such as brown rice and millet. Make and drink pure vegetable broth. This will eliminate toxins and mucous that the candida yeast thrives on. Cleaning out your system is vital to eliminating the candida yeast infection and making a complete recovery.
Drink eight glasses of distilled water throughout the day. Well or tap water can contain products that may minimize the effects water can have on eliminating candida yeast infections.
Avoid foods that destroy, including aged cheeses, alcohol, baked goods, chocolate, dried fruits, ham, pickles, soy sauce, raw mushrooms, and nut butters.
Eliminate citrus and acidic fruits such as orange, grapefruit, lemon, tomato and limes from your diet for one month
To prevent re-infection, replace your toothbrush every thirty days and wear white cotton underwear. Synthetic fibers can lead to increased perspiration that creates an environment where candida yeast can thrive.
If you believe you suffer from chronic or unusually persistent candida yeast infections, consult your healthcare provider for more extensive candida yeast infection treatment options.
A candida yeast infection is considered to be recurrent if you have four or more candida yeast infections within a one-year timeframe. The candida yeast infections must be severe enough to cause symptoms as listed above and should not be caused by taking antibiotics. A culture is often done to confirm the presence of candida yeast, and you should be tested for underlying conditions, such as diabetes that is associated with recurring candida yeast infections.
A culture is a swab type test that is performed to assist health care providers in determining what kind of organism; usually a type of bacterium is causing an illness or infection.
