About four out of five people have the Candida albicans fungus living in controlled environments throughout their bodies. When the population of the bacteria increases, a yeast infection can occur with a condition called Candidiasis, or thrush. Though these conditions are easily treatable for most people, those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.
Candida albicans is found in several areas of most bodies. It is primarily found in the mouth, throat and bowels. It can also be spotted on the skin, in the bloodstream and even in the heart. Normally in inert form, chemical imbalances can create the environment necessary for the typically unicellular Candida albicans to become an invading, tissue-destroying infection.
When this colonization happens in localized areas, it can result in minor yeast infections like vaginitis for women, balanitis for men, and even diaper rash for young children. These are characterized by inflammation of the infected area, itching, scaling and discharge. Antibiotics and, potentially, prescription steroids may be prescribed to quell these infections. Over-the-counter creams made with antifungal agents like clotrimazole or miconazole also appear effective in conquering many minor infections.
The symptoms of Candidiasis can be more widespread than the localized inflammation and discharge, though. Called candidemia, this more life-threatening fungal assault infests the bloodstream and can cause fever, anemia and even shock, if untreated. Before even manifesting itself in a condition like vaginitis, a long list of other indicators could provide clues to an out-of-control Candida albicans population. These range from constipation, sore throat, memory problems, and fatigue to headaches, pained urination, and blisters in the mouth.
Those with immunodeficiencies like AIDS, along with chemotherapy patients, are particularly vulnerable to infection by Candida albicans. Studies have shown that an excess amount of antibiotics or immunosuppressants in the system can kill other bacteria needed to keep C. albicans levels manageable. Severe candidemia, however, appears to be a problem confined to patients suffering from AIDS or cancer as well as those who have just undergone transplantation.
Aside from antifungal ointments or pills to suppress a yeast infection, some people attempt to bring balance to their diets in an effort to keep Candida albicans even further at bay. Diets low in sugar are often advised, since these cellular organisms feed on simple sugars, which can be found most abundantly in pastas, breads, candy, cakes and soft drinks. These dieting changes should not replace medical treatment, however, but rather complement it. Remaining unchallenged at the microbial level with a proven antifungal cream or oral supplement, Candida albicans will continue to spread.
Thrush appears as creamy-white or bluish-white patches on the tongue - which is inflamed and sometimes beefy red - and on the lining of the mouth, or in the throat.
Diaper rash caused by candida is an inflammation of the skin, usually red and sometimes scaly.
Vaginitis is characterized by a white or yellow discharge. Inflammation of the walls of the vagina and of the vulva (external genital area) causes burning and itching.
Infections of the fingernails and toenails appear as red, painful swelling around the nail. Later, pus may develop.
Infection of the penis often results in balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis).
An infection in the bloodstream can affect the kidneys, heart, lungs, eyes, or other organs causing high fever, chills, anemia, and sometimes a rash or shock. Candida can cause the following problems depending upon the organ infected:
in the kidneys can cause blood in the urine
in the heart can cause murmurs and valve damage
in the lungs can cause bloody sputum (mucus discharge)
in the eyes can cause pain and blurred vision
in the brain can cause seizures and acute changes in mental function or behavior
There is actually a long list of drugs or oral medications that can be used to get rid of Candida Albicans lastingly. These drug-based remedies include topical medications like the commercially available ointments, creams and lotions that may be easily accessed in your local drug stores; while others fall in the category of oral medications.
Anti-fungal creams are actually the most popularly and widely used topical remedy to get rid of fungal infections. They are proven to work successfully with fungal infections in the genitals and skin. It will only take you regular application to last for weeks or months and you will eventually see the symptoms waning off.
Oral medications to fight off Candida Albicans include taking some oral supplements or tablets to wipe out the fungi in your body. Ask your doctor for prescription so that you can be more confident about the drugs or supplements you are taking.
While there are a few available over the counter, the majority of them are prescribed by a doctor. However, remember when you are taking any kind of medication to put in your body that you may experience from side effects from that as well.
If you will compare the various oral and topical remedies for Candidiasis with the all-natural home remedies, you will surely be surprised with how your body is going to react eventually.
Yogurt is guaranteed to help you get relieved from the symptoms of Candida infection. All you will need to do is load up on yogurt or perhaps prepare a half cup of yogurt. Soak a tampon and insert in your vagina for at least an hour to make sure that the yogurt’s Lactobacilli may overthrow the bad bacteria inside your genital.
Garlic is another home remedy that is very cheap and yet effective to use against Candidiasis. Simply swallow bits of garlic; or perhaps opt for garlic tablets which you may get from health stores; or insert a whole clove of peeled garlic into your genital. Leave it overnight for best results.