Candida overgrowth, also known as candidiasis, is a condition in which there is excessive growth of the Candida yeast in the body.
Candida is a type of yeast that is normally found in small amounts in the body, especially in the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina.
Normally, it coexists peacefully with the other bacteria and fungi in the body, but when something disrupts the balance of these microorganisms, Candida can overgrow and cause a range of symptoms and health problems.
There are many different species of Candida, but the most common one is Candida albicans. This species is responsible for most cases of Candida overgrowth and infection.
Symptoms And Signs Of Candida Overgrowth
Some of the more common symptoms and signs associated with candida overgrowth are the following:
8. Feeling So Fatigued. Feeling so fatigued is one of the symptoms of candida overgrowth, and it is often described as a deep and unrelenting exhaustion that does not improve with rest or sleep.
This fatigue can be physical, mental, or both, and can make even the simplest tasks, such as getting dressed or taking a shower, feel overwhelming.
7. Low Energy. Low energy is a common symptom of candida overgrowth, and it can be a persistent and debilitating experience for those who suffer from this condition. This symptom is similar to feeling so fatigued, but it is characterized by a lack of vitality, motivation, and enthusiasm.
People with candida overgrowth often describe feeling like they are running on empty, with no reserves of energy to draw upon.
6. Lack Of Focus, Memory Difficulties. A lack of focus can significantly impact a person’s ability to concentrate and complete tasks.
People with candida overgrowth often describe a feeling of “brain fog,” in which their thinking is slowed, and their ability to recall information is impaired. It can also lead to mistakes, confusion, and difficulty in making decisions, which can further impact a person’s ability to function in daily life.
5. Oral Thrush. The symptoms of oral thrush can include white or yellow patches on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat, as well as pain, soreness, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.
4. Vaginal Yeast Infections. Candida normally exists in the vagina in small amounts and is kept in check by the bacteria present in the area. However, under certain conditions, Candida can multiply rapidly and cause an infection.
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection may include itching, burning, and soreness in the vagina and surrounding area. The discharge may be thick, white, and curd-like, and may have a yeasty odor.
3. Skin And Nail Infections. Symptoms of a skin or nail infection caused by Candida may include redness, itching, and swelling in the affected area. The skin may become flaky, cracked, and develop small blisters or pustules.
2. Digestive Problems. Symptoms of digestive problems caused by Candida may include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience food intolerances, cravings for sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods, and fatigue.
1. Manifestation Of Other Health Conditions. The manifestation of other health conditions can make the diagnosis and management of candida overgrowth very challenging.
People with candida overgrowth may also experience other health conditions, such as skin rashes, mouth sores, urinary tract infections, horrible gas, indigestion, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome, etc. which can exacerbate their symptoms and make it difficult to differentiate between different health conditions.
Dangers Of Candida Overgrowth
If not treated properly and on a timely basis, the associated health dangers and complications of candida overgrowth are as follows:
8. Digestive Problems. Digestive problems occur when the balance of microorganisms in the gut is disrupted, allowing the yeast to grow and multiply excessively. Digestive problems associated with candida overgrowth can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.
7. Leaky Gut Syndrome. Candida overgrowth can also lead to a condition called leaky gut syndrome, which can allow toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation throughout the body.
6. Oral Thrush. This condition occurs when the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth is disrupted, allowing the yeast to grow uncontrollably. Oral thrush appears as white or yellowish lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat, which may cause discomfort, pain, or difficulty swallowing.
5. Skin Infections. Skin infections can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Common types of candida-related skin infections include diaper rash, jock itch, and ringworm. Some infections can spread and become more severe, leading to open sores or lesions.
4. Vaginal Yeast Infections. This condition occurs when the balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disrupted, allowing the yeast cells to grow excessively. While vaginal yeast infections are not usually life-threatening, they can be chronic and recurrent, leading to discomfort and decreased quality of life.
3. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a debilitating condition that causes severe fatigue, pain, and other symptoms. Research studies suggest that yeast cells release toxins that can cause inflammation and damage to the body’s tissues and organs.
2. Autoimmune Diseases. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues and organs, leading to inflammation, pain, and organ damage. Some researchers suggest that candida overgrowth can trigger an autoimmune response by releasing toxins that can damage the body’s tissues and organs.
1. Systemic Candidiasis. Systemic candidiasis is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can result from candida overgrowth. This condition occurs when the yeast cells enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, infecting different organs and systems, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, and brain.
Candida Causes And Treatments
Many people who have symptoms of candida overgrowth make the critical mistake of dismissing their symptoms and hoping the issues will simply go away.
In most cases, it does not go away. Early treatment is highly recommended.
According to one of the top-rated board-certified Gastroenterologists in the United States …
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