Candidiasis

Candida, commonly called the candy disease, accounts for nearly 80% of all major systemic fungal infections and is the fourth most prevalent organism found in bloodstream infections. Typical causes of yeast infections include use of antibiotics, poor diet, use of birth control, multiple pregnancies, many drugs and reduced oxygen supply to the body.

Candida is not restricted to the female vaginal infection. Men and women of all ages are susceptible to the fungal infection. The disease thrives on dark, moist environments, typically starting in the intestinal tract. Symptoms can be vague and indicative of many other illnesses. Symptoms include gas, bloating, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, constipation and/or diarrhea, and major cravings for sugar, starches and alcohol, which only add to the proliferation of yeast in the body. Also possible, is chronic fatigue, mood swings, dizziness, depression, confused thyroid function, "arthritic-like" pains and poor mental concentration. The yeast releases toxins in the body as it spreads, causing havoc to the immune system. Most patients with systemic candidiasis are highly susceptible to sinus and cold infections.

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