Candidiasis is the common name for a condition that results in the overproduction of a form of yeast that is normally found in the body at low levels.
Candida is not considered something to worry about; however, recent research has highlighted this form of yeast that is causing the medical profession to reconsider its totally benign evaluation of candida. It is inside all of us: in the digestive tract, the mouth and the throat. In women, it is also found in the vagina. The most common species of candida is called candida albicans.
When the human body is weakened, it is vulnerable to attack. Be aware that at all times various bacteria, viruses and other pathogens are waging an invisible war against the body. Also, the immune system is always on guard, waiting for attack. In response to an external invasion, the body produces various weapons to combat hostile aggression. Sometimes, if the body is weakened due to a number of conditions and situations, the immune system cannot do its job properly.
A common condition caused by candida is yeast infection. Yeast infection is a build-up of candida that can affect both men and women. Up to seventy-five percent of women will experience at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, caused by an overgrowth of candida.
These common conditions are bothersome, but they do not represent the symptoms of chronic yeast infection. Chronic overproduction of candida can cause a wide range of physical and mental symptoms. It can manifest as abdominal pain, fatigue, skin infections, and even cognitive difficulties. There seems to be such a degree of problems related to candida overgrowth that candida is often ruled out as a cause.
In chronic yeast infection, the candida changes in such a way that it multiplies rapidly. It transforms into its dangerous fungal state and spreads.
The fungal form of candida produces rhizoids – hooked spiked appendages that cut through tissue and membranes, causing pain and other damaging symptoms. If left untreated, a condition called leaky gut syndrome can develop in the intestinal tract.
Leaky gut syndrome allows toxins to leave the digestive tract and enter the bloodstream directly. It is also interesting to note that once someone begins treatment to kill excess candida growth, the initial reaction to treatment will often result in the patient feeling worse! This is due to the fact that the fungal form of candida does not want to die and is fighting like the heck to survive!
In addition, there are indications that yeast infection can affect people who do not have a compromised immune system. New research has indicated that people who have healthy immune systems can also fall victim to the rhizoid scope of candida. This is important because it presents a way for science to identify root causes rather than simply treating symptoms.
Candida is most likely responsible for more problems than attributed to it. Before starting candida treatment, you should try to read up on it and fully understand what it entails. As with anything else, knowledge is power.
