Candida
coexists in our bodies along with many species of
beneficial bacteria in a competitive balance. When the
immune system is weakened, Candida growth can proceed
unhindered. Candida is a dimorphic organism - the
spherical yeast which is non-invasive and the fungal
form which produces rhizoids that can penetrate the
intestinal mucosa initiating a series of adverse
reactions that can cause widespread damage by colonizing
all body tissues. The uncontrolled growth of Candida is
known as Candida overgrowth or systemic
Candidiasis.
Once
initiated, if not diagnosed and treated appropriately,
Candida overgrowth can result in a self-perpetuating
cycle. The large numbers of yeasts can weaken the immune
system predisposing one to more serious degenerative
processes. Seen in this light, Candida overgrowth should
not be taken lightly.
Candida often first
spreads in the digestive tract. As their number
multiplies, they start penetrating the intestinal wall
causing metabolic toxins and undigested proteins to
enter the blood stream and spread through the body. The
symptoms become more diffused and convoluted. The
symptoms of systemic Candida overgrowth may be
classified as follows:
·
Gastrointestinal
symptoms: Bad Breath, gas, bloating, constipation,
diarrhea, heartburn, rectal itching, ulcers, food
cravings particularly sugar and alcohol, irritable bowel
syndrome, gluten intolerance, celiac
sprue.
·
Allergy-like
symptoms: Extreme chemical sensitivity, puffy eyes,
respiratory problems, dry skin and itching, burning and
watering of eyes, asthma, skin rashes and hives,
bronchitis, chronic
sinusitis.
·
Autoimmune-like
symptoms: Epstein Bar virus, frequent and difficult to
treat infections, Lupus.
·
Psychological
or mood related: PMS symptoms, poor memory, mental
confusion, hyperactivity, irritability, major mood
swings, lethargy, anti-social behavior, irrational
thoughts, phobias, panic attacks, suicidal tendencies,
low sex drive, general malaise, depression, insomnia,
night sweats, chronic fatigue,
ADD/ADHD.
·
Joint and
connective tissue: Muscle aches, joint pains, muscle
cramps.
·
Oral
symptoms: Oral thrush, receding gums, dry mouth, sticky
or thick saliva.
·
Genitourinary
tract symptoms: Vaginitis, menstrual pain and
irregularity, cystitis, prostatitis, rash on penis,
burning urination,
endometriosis.
·
Recurrent
fungal infections like athlete's foot, ringworm, jock
itch.
·
Other
symptoms: Acne, infection of nails and
toes.
These
wide-ranging symptoms may lead the physician to
prescribe a "broad spectrum" antibiotic which will
further promote the overgrowth of Candida and strengthen
the existing negative chain of events, leading to
further stress on the immune system and increased
Candida-related problems. As symptoms worsen, it may
lead to a virtual shutdown of various organ systems and
ultimately death.
Diagnosing
symptoms and managing the systemic Candida
overgrowth at an early stage, therefore, becomes vitally
important. A holistic approach which involves the mental
and emotional well-being along with the treatment of
physical symptoms can only help in permanent
cure.
