The Candida albicans fungus is found naturally within the colon and mucus membranes in tolerable amounts. However, its overgrowth can lead to more serious concerns. Candida albicans is considered dimorphic, meaning it can exist in yeast form and a fungus. Also referred to as monilia, it is generally present near mucous membranes such as the rectum, vagina, and mouth. Monilia can become more serious if it passes through the bloodstream and affects the throat, heart, and other intestines. However, there are very few cases of Monilia getting this bad.
Candida albicans requires a moist and warm place to incubate. An overgrowth in the bacteria can lead to what is referred to as a Candida albicans infection. A common cause of Candida albicans fungus is the overuse of antibiotics or oral contraceptives which destroy the healthy bacteria that keeps Candida in check. Another common root cause of Candida infections is vitamin D deficiency.
Yeast overgrowth is sometimes called a Candida infection. Candida albicans thrush is an overgrowth of the infection when it occurs in the mouth, particularly infants. Vaginitis, or yeast infections, are characterized by white or yellow discharge and inflammation of the vulva and walls of the vagina. An overgrowth in the colon and intestines happens with the overconsumption of alcohol, sugars, and antibiotics.
Some of the symptoms, aside from swelling and discomfort, can include fatigue, lethargy, and even motility. For instance, if food is not able to be eliminated through the colon, then the resulting motility can cause fatigue. Dietary choices and food allergies are usually the contributing factors. Generally, undigested food within the intestinal tract can provide nourishment and a home for monilia. Furthermore, the warm and moist colon walls and unbalanced pH environment can increase their growth.
Thrush, for instance, can be visible on the tongue having a creamy white or bluish patch like appearance. It can also be present on the lining of the mouth and throat. If the skin becomes inflamed, then the tissue would appear beefy red. A diaper rash can also result from the warm, moist environment. Other types of infections can affect the fingernails and even the penis, which is referred to as balanitis or Candida penis.
If left untreated, the Candida fungus can create deep roots into the lining of the intestine, creating access to the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the fungus can travel and cause a host of other symptoms and problems. This is called systemic Candidiasis. The heart can experience murmurs or even valve damage. Lungs can be affected, as well, resulting in bloody sputum. Eyes can be impacted with blurred vision and pain. If it reaches the brain, then seizures can result along with acute changes in behavior and mental functions. However, this is for the most rare and serious cases of Candidiasis.
For Candida treatment there are a number of drugs, such as antifungals, that can be effective. Some of these include nystatin, Diflucan, Lamisil. For diaper rashes, a barrier cream can also be used along with frequent diaper changes. Some of the more natural remedies can include: grapefruit seed extract and garlic. However, eliminating certain sugars, and including a high fiber diet,can be very effective in its prevention and control. Those with a proclivity to Candida albicans should keep their skin clean and dry since Candida albicans fungus loves warm and moist environments.
Given that Candida albicans is already naturally present in the body, the risk is everpresent. However, through proper hygiene and diet, one can control or limit its impact. The higher-risk candidates tend to be the obese, diabetics, contraceptive users, pregnant women, and babies with diaper rash. The ideal prevention would be to always bathe with clean towels and maintain dry, healthy skin. Diet and food allergies should also be monitored. But as mentioned before, the most effective treatment for sufferers of long-term, chronic Candida albicans fungus, is to eliminate the root of the infection, which is within the G.I. tract. This can be accomplished by following the anti Candida diet.
Learn more about Candida infections. Stop by Doc Walton’s site where you can find out all about Candida infection treatments so that they never come back.