Yeast
infection is a band of syndromes ranging from a solitary
episode to relentless recurrence. Yeast infection caused
by Candida albicans, generally begins in the digestive
system and little by little spreads to other parts of
the body. Candida is present all over the body in all
humans. Normally, this yeast remains in a healthy
balance with the other bacteria within the intestinal
tract. Under conditions of extreme stress, lowered
immunity or the long-term use of steroids and
antibiotics, the Candida can multiply, thus disrupting
the balance of the gastrointestinal flora. Prolonged use
of antibiotics not only kills pathogens but also a large
number of beneficial bacteria. With the depletion of the
beneficial protective flora in the intestines and a
weakened immune response, this opportunistic yeast can
then spread and multiply beyond the intestinal tract
affecting every almost every organ in the body. Many
researchers have determined that intestinal yeast
infection could be the basis of most illnesses such
as chronic infections, chronic fatigue, allergies, and
many other ailments. This could be the result of toxins
produced by the yeast. Seventy-nine such toxins have
been identified so far.
Some
of the more common intestinal yeast infection symptoms
include the following:
·
Chapped
and dry flaky skin.
·
Poor
appetite and chronic fatigue.
·
Stiff
shoulders or headaches or
arthritis.
·
Constipation
and bad breath.
·
Bloating
and indigestion, frequent intestinal
gas.
·
Constipation
or diarrhea.
·
Sexual
dysfunction.
·
Chronic
hives.
·
Craving
for sweets.
Apart
from these, symptoms like suicidal depression, autism,
worsening premenstrual syndrome, irritability and mood
swings, impotence, hyperactivity, urinary infections and
disorders, recurring vaginitis, menstrual irregularities
have also been attributed to yeast infection. As all
these yeast infection symptoms are unrelated from one
another, doctors have an extremely hard time making the
diagnosis of a Candidiasis.
Treatment
of intestinal
yeast infection is aimed at reducing the number of
yeast through diet and antifungal medications, enhancing
the immune system, and repopulating the intestinal tract
with beneficial bacteria with the help of probiotics.
All these steps may or may not relieve symptoms, so it
is recommended that intestinal yeast infections be
treated by a holistic medicine practitioner. Holistic
cures enhance the body’s own healing powers without
relying on external factors such as harmful medicines.
Changes in lifestyle, diet habits, clothes, emotional
health are all incorporated to effect permanent freedom
from yeast infections.
