Fatigue and muscle pains.  Digestive and urinary tract ailments.  Headaches and general malaise.  Depression and allergies.  Do any of these symptoms sound familiar, yet you've seen many physicians with no resolve?  One commonly overlooked health problem that may be at the source of your symptoms is Candida overgrowth, also known as Candidiasis - simply translated, a yeast infection.

Candidiasis, caused by the overgrowth of a specific Candida fungi, Candida Albicans, affects millions of men, women and children of all ages.  Some researchers have even linked Candida overgrowth to other chronic health problems such as ear infections and sexual dysfunction in adults; hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder and autism in children; premenstrual syndrome in women; asthma; psoriasis; and even multiple sclerosis.⁽¹⁾

Candida Albicans is a relatively harmless yeast that is normally found in the mouth, throat, intestines and genitourinary tract of most humans.⁽²⁾   In the yeast state, Candida Albicans is simply a non-invasive, sugar-fermenting organism,  whose purpose is to destroy harmful gut flora (bacteria).  In a normal environment, Candida is controlled by a properly functioning immune system and helpful "friendly" gut flora like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacillus laterosporus, all of which suppress undesirable bacteria and yeasts and help to maintain a balanced, healthy immune system.

However, if the population of good bacteria is diminished by any number of causes, Candida Albicans transforms from a yeast state into fungus.  This fungus invades the body, allowing the introduction of potentially dangerous and immune-lowering substances, such as indigested dietary protein, into the bloodstream.⁽³⁾  The immune system's response to these substances can result in numerous, chronic health maladies such as those outlined above.

Symptoms of Candidiasis range from the obvious to the ambiguous; cravings for sweets, overall feelings of bad health, irritable bowel syndrome, frequent mood swings, inability to concentrate, insomnia, kidney and bladder infections, nasal congestion and sore throat, to name a few.  Some experts even believe Candida overgrowth can cause such far-reaching systemic effects as chest pain, thyroid gland malfunction, diabetes and skin conditions.  Depending on the site of the infection, Thrush,* Esophagitis,* Cutaneous Candidiasis,* vaginal yeast infections,* and, in severe cases, Deep Candidiasis* can occur.  With Deep Candidiasis infection, symptoms can range from as simple as a fever to multiple organ failure.

Common causes of Candida Albicans overgrowth include the use of broad spectrum antibiotics, which reduce the number of friendly gut flora in the intestines, that normally keeps the Candida Albicans under control; any condition in which the immune system is weakened or suppressed, such as AIDS and cancer;  hormonal imbalances, such as in pregnancy or as a result of oral contraceptive use; prolonged use of steroid hormones, acid blockers, ulcer medications, immunosuppressant or anti-inflammatory drugs; excessive stress; and improper diet.

Candida is not an airborne infection.  It can, however, be transmitted from one partner to another through intercourse, deep kissing or oral sex.⁽⁴⁾  Fortunately, if other person is healthy, his or her immune system will destroy the cells and prevent infection.  It is also possible for Breastfeeding mothers to transmit the infection to their infants.

Diagnosis can be made through visual examination, symptom review ^and/_or laboratory blood tests.  Once identified, Candida can be successfully treated through several measures.  Remedies include the determination and elimination of any causative factors; application of antifungal medication; lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing or avoiding alcohol consumption; removing (or at least reducing) pollution and toxins in your environment; and strengthening your immune system through the combined application of a healthy lifestyle plus proper nutrition and probiotic supplements.  You can read more about the Anti-Candida diet here.

Not everyone with the common (and not so common) symptoms outlined herein has a Candida overgrowth.  However, the problem is so prevalent in today's society that it is well worth exploring the possible diagnosis in those who have continuing symptoms without any apparent etiology.

Where to Get Help:
Dr. William G. Crook, MD's Candida website
Unsure if your problems are Candida related?  Take Dr. Crook's quick quiz right from the privacy of your home.
Candida Albicans FAQs & Resources
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: Candidiasis General Information

*Thrush: exhibited by inflamed areas in and around the mouth.  These areas are usually covered with a  white "patch."
*Esophagitis - presents with feelings of heartburn, painful and/or difficult swallowing.  "Patches" may also be present in the esophagus in some cases.
*Cutaneous Candidiasis - exhibited by patches of inflamed, weepy skin. Pustules may also be present.
*Vaginal yeast infections - external genitalia may be sore, itchy and/or burning, particularly upon urination.  A thick vaginal discharge will also likely be present.
*Deep Candidiasis - a systemic infection transported throughout the body.
 

References:
1-Dr. William G. Crook, MD, "The Yeast Connection Handbook"
2 & 4-"Candida Frequently Asked Questions," by Aleksandar Ivanovic with input from Roberta Blaylock, Anne Mears, Charles Binder, Carrie Micko, Gail Brenner, Tina Guarasci, Beth Peacock and contributing members of YEAST-L.
3- "The Candida Albicans Mystery," by Stephen B. Edelson, M.D., F.A.A.F.P., F.A.A.E.M

© copyright Heather C. Guidone.  Last update: March 30, 2004.