Candida
Brief Definition: Candida is a serious debilitating
disease that often goes undiagnosed. Candida albicans is
a yeast growth normally controlled by natural bacteria
in the intestines. If the bacteria are destroyed,
possibly by long term use of antibiotics, prolonged use
of birth control, high sugar diet or inappropriate diet,
this yeast growth will increase beyond what your body
can handle.
Common Symptoms:Candida
affects women with greater severity, although men and
children are affected quite frequently. Symptoms usually
appear in three areas:
1. Reproductive system, causing problems such as yeast
or bladder infections, serious cramps, PMS and chronic
vaginal discharge.
2. Digestive system, including constipation, diarrhea,
digestive problems, gas, belching, bloating, stomach
aches, chronic colitis, and irritable bowel.
3. sychological and emotional distress, such as mood
swings, depression, fatigue, irritability,
forgetfulness, confusion and lack of concentration.
Treatment: Effective
treatment involves getting the yeast under control, and
varies for each person. Antigens or anti-fungal drugs
and allergy treatments, as well as nutritional
treatments, have been shown to be effective. The most
important thing to do is find a physician knowledgeable
in the field of Candida, address the cause of the
illness and avoid covering up the symptoms with
prescription drugs.
We hope this information
has been helpful. Please call Environmental Health and
Allergy Center - St. Louis at 314-921-5600 or email us
at ehacstl@ehacstl.com
for more information.
