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Candidiasis – Causes, Diagnosis, and Prevention.

Description

Candidiasis is an infection caused by the microorganism called Candida albicans mostly occurs on the skin. Candida is a type of yeast or fungus, and candidiasis is called a yeast infection. There are more than 20 types of Candida and they can live in our bodies causing no problems at all. However, in warm, moist conditions the fungi can multiply and cause infections. These can range from the harmless but irritating, some of them are vaginal thrush or nappy rash and infections that spread through the entire body, especially with the weakened immune systems can be life-threatening. Adults can also have yeast infections under the breast and beneath other skin folds.

Affecting areas of Candida

Types of candidiasis

Pathogenesis of candidiasis

Pathogenesis of candidiasis

Epidemiology

Causes of candidiasis

Yeast overgrowth can be triggered by:

Risk factors

Symptoms of candidiasis

Complications due to candidiasis

Diagnosis and test

Lab Tests

Comprehensive Stool Analysis: A stool analysis starts with sample collection. At the lab, your stool will be analyzed for levels of yeast, pathogenic bacteria, and friendly bacteria. Especially the Candida albicans and several other pathogenic microorganisms are witnessed. Also examining for pH, inflammation markers, and conducting a thorough evaluation of your gut health and digestive processes.

Candida Antibodies Test: Our immune system produces three different types of antibodies in response to a Candida infestation. These are the IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies. The levels of each of these antibodies indirectly signify the Candida overgrowth or have been present in the recent past.

Organic Acid Test: Candida overgrowth leaves evidence is your urine. There are certain organic waste products created by Candida albicans that are not naturally found in your body. By looking for these waste products in your urine, it is possible to evaluate whether there is an imbalance in the gut and to guess at which pathogenic organisms might be causing it.

The Spittle Test: Here’s a simple test that some people claim will diagnose your Candida overgrowth.

  1. When you get up in the morning, and before you brush your teeth, eat or drink anything, fill a glass with bottled water at room temperature.
  2. Spit some saliva gently into the glass.
  3. Come back every 20 minutes for the next hour and check for some of these ‘tell-tale signs’ of Candida:

Gastrointestinal candidiasis

Endoscopy with or without biopsy is necessary to establish the diagnosis.

Treatment and medications

Treatment of candidiasis varies, depending on the area affected:

Prevention

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