· Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeastCandida. Many types of Candida live naturally in parts of the body and only cause symptoms if too much grows (i.e., vaginal yeastinfections). · Several factors can contribute to the overgrowth of Candida in the vagina. Changes in the vagina's normal acidity, natural microbiome or hormonal balance can create an environment that encourages yeastovergrowth. Symptoms of Candida overgrowth include mouth lesions, fatigue, and digestive issues. Addressing the underlying cause can help ease symptoms and prevent recurring infections.Many types of fungi live in and on the human body, including the genus of yeasts known as Candida.Candida is typically found in small amounts in the mouth and intestines and on the skin.At normal levels, the fungus is not problematic. However, when Candida begins to grow uncontrollably, it can cause an infection known as candidiasis.In fact, Candida is one of the most common causes of fungal infections in humans (1, 2).This article explores 6 symptoms of Candida overgrowth, how it’s caused, and how you can treat it.See full list on healthline.comMouth symptoms with oral thrushCandidiasis that develops in the mouth or throat is called “thrush.” It’s most common in newborns, older adults, and people with a weakened immune system (8). Individuals with poor oral hygiene or removable dentures are also at an increased risk (9). People with oral thrush typically develop white, bumpy patches on their tongue, inner cheeks, gums, tonsils, or throat (10). The lesions can be painful and may bleed slightly when scraped. Oral thrush is also often associated with redness or soreness of the tongue and mouth (10). In severe cases, it can spread to the esophagus and cause pain or difficulty swallowing. summary When there is too much Candida in the mouth, it can cause white, bumpy lesions, redness, and pain in the mouth and throat. This is also known as oral thrush.2. Tiredness and fatigueOne of the most common symptoms associated with Candida is fatigue. While there’s no evidence that Candida causes fatigue, there are a couple of ways in which it could contribute to it. First, candidiasis is often accompanied by nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B6, essential fatty acids, and magnesium (11). In particular, magnesium deficiency has been known to cause fatigue (12). Second, Candida infections commonly occur when the immune system is weakened. A low-functioning immune system in itself may leave you feeling tired and fatigued. One older study from 1995 suggests that prolonged candidiasis of the gut may even be a potential cause of chronic fatigue syndrome. However, more research is needed (13). summary Candidiasis is most common in individuals with a weakened immune system and may be accompanied by various nutritional deficiencies. This can leave you feeling tired and fatigued.3. Recurring genital or urinary tract infectionsCandida is found in the vaginal tracts of about 20% of females (14). An overgrowth of Candida can lead to candidiasis of the vagina, also known as a yeast infection. It is estimated that 1.4 million people visit a doctor for a vaginal yeast infection each year in the United States (14). Males can also get genital yeast infections, but it’s much less common (15). Symptoms of vaginal candidiasis include redness, swelling, itching, painful intercourse, and a thick, white discharge from the vagina (16). Although not common, Candida can also cause a urinary tract infection (UTI). Candida-related urinary tract infections are most common in older adults and hospitalized or immune-compromised individuals (17). Symptoms of a UTI include a burning feeling when you urinate, a frequent urge to urinate, cloudy, dark, or strange-smelling urine, and pain or pressure in your lower abdomen (18). That being said, other bacteria like E. coli are more likely to cause UTIs (18). However, if you experience recurring infections and believe they are a result of Candida overgrowth, you can talk to a doctor about having your urine tested to find out. summary Candida can cause genital and urinary tract infections, both of which can lead to pain and discomfort.See full list on healthline.comThe food you eat plays an important role in maintaining the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut.In particular, foods high in sugar, refined grains, dairy products, processed meats, and alcohol may promote the growth of Candida (28).While more research is needed, one study found that people who avoided these foods during treatment for Candida had better outcomes after 3 months (28).Additionally, certain foods may help protect against Candida infections, including:•Garlic: Garlic contains several antifungal compounds like allicin, some of which have been shown to act against Candida yeasts in test-tube studies (29, 30).•Coconut oil: Coconut oil is high in lauric acid, which has been shown to fight Candida infections in multiple test-tube studies (31, 32).See full list on healthline.comThe best way to treat candidiasis and prevent recurring infections is to address the underlying cause.A doctor may prescribe an antifungal drug, such as: •nystatin•clotrimazole•amphotericin B•miconazoleSee full list on healthline.comHow do you clear up Candida?A doctor can prescribe antifungal medications such as nyastatin or clotrimazole. These are available as pills or creams, depending on which part of the body Candida affects and how severe the infection is (15).What kills Candida quickly?The time it takes to clear Candida will also depend on the severity of the infection and how soon a person gets treatment. Some cases only need a single treatment, For recurring vaginal infections, however, you may need treatment for up to 6 months (15).Can diet improve Candida?No foods can cure Candida, but items that are high in sugar, refined grains, dairy products, processed meats, and alcohol may make it worse. Foods that may help protect you from an infection include garlic, curcumin, kombucha, and probiotics.See full list on healthline.comSeveral factors can contribute to Candida overgrowth, including certain medications, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle factors.Modifying your diet may be beneficial for candidiasis and could help ease symptoms related to infection, including fatigue, joint pain, and digestive issues.See full list on healthline.com Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of a type of yeast that lives on your body called Candida albicans. A candidiasis infection often appears where Candida naturally lives in small amounts, like your skin, mouth or vagina. · On the skin, an overgrowth may cause a rash, while a vaginal yeastinfection can cause itching, burning, and abnormal discharge. An oral yeastinfection can cause white patches on the tongue, while an overgrowth of Candida in the gut can cause gastrointestinal complaints such as bloating. A yeastinfection (candidiasis) is an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida (yeast). Many different species (types) of Candida live on your skin and in your body naturally. · On the skin, an overgrowth may cause a rash, while a vaginal yeastinfection can cause itching, burning, and abnormal discharge. An oral yeastinfection can cause white patches on the tongue, while an overgrowth of Candida in the gut can cause gastrointestinal complaints such as bloating. A yeastinfection (candidiasis) is an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida (yeast). Many different species (types) of Candida live on your skin and in your body naturally.
