Subclinical infections are one of the leading causes of poor health today. Most people think of an “infection” as something obvious with overt symptoms, but in most cases people have infective processes taking place in their body without even being aware of it! Due to environmental stresses, poor diet, inordinate use of medications like antibiotics and steroids, and many other causes, yeast can grow within the intestinal tract and elsewhere and discourage the growth of friendly bacteria. The yeast, Candida, when allowed to remain, continuously releases potent toxins which then circulate throughout the body. These toxins do great harm, especially when they go undetected. Candida infections are also known as thrush or Candidiasis.
Thrush is
an overgrowth of yeast called Candida albicans. Candida
is normally found on the skin, in the stomach, colon,
vagina, rectum, mouth, and throat. It causes health
problems only when there is an overgrowth in one or more
parts of the body. It could is an early symptom of HIV,
usually occurring in the mouth and/or vagina. It can
become a serious problem if left
untreated.
Oral
thrush looks like creamy white patches or small red
spots on the tongue, roof of the mouth, gums, or throat.
Crusting or blisters on the corners of the mouth is also
a symptom of thrush. If the infection reaches the
esophagus, there can be pain or difficulty in
swallowing. It can cause nausea and make food taste
different. Thrush may also start in the vagina. The
signs of a vaginal thrush Candida are thick,
cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, itching, and
burning. The vaginal lips or labia may be red, tender,
and swollen. Most vaginal infections if improperly
treated keep recurring.
A variety
of anti-fungal medications are available over the
counter and on prescription. Some antifungal agents like
clotrimazole and miconazole are used as creams or
pessaries. Oral antifungal drugs like fluconazole and
itraconazole are also available for those who prefer
swallowing a capsule. Natural and home remedies such as
apple cider vinegar, probiotic yoghurt, garlic,
grapefruit seed extract are safer and equally
effective.
Thrush
Candida in the
strictest sense is not an infection since the yeast is
already present in the body. It causes symptoms when
internal as well as external factors upset the delicate
balance in the body. A multidimensional approach is
required if one is to break the vicious cycle of ill
health which is what holistic medicine is about. It
treats the body as a sum of physical, mental, emotional,
and spiritual factors as well. A few lifestyle changes,
balanced diet, emotional well being, exercises,
meditation etc are recommended. Their effect may not be
instantaneous but in the long run holistic medicine is
safer, more effective and infinitely
cheaper.
