Holistic Treatment for Candidiasis 2/3

By Robert Ivker, D.O.



Symptoms Of Candidiasis



It is precisely because the symptoms of candidiasis are many and varied that its diagnosis is frequently overlooked. This wide variety of symptoms is largely due to the way in which yeast overgrowth occurs. Initially, candida invade the tissues of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by metamorphosing into a plantlike form and sending roots into the walls of the small intestines. Eventually these roots can bore holes in the intestinal wall, causing a condition known as "leaky gut syndrome" that enables candida, bacteria, food, and other material to enter the bloodstream. From there candida are then carried throughout the body to inhabit those areas most favorable for their continued growth. These areas include the rectum, anus, vagina, the genitourinary tract, and the moist mucous membranes of the lungs and sinuses. Once these tissues are colonized symptoms such as inflammation, sinus pain, muscle aches, joint pain, vaginal and anal itching, and burning following urination can result. Whether these symptoms are due directly to candida or from the toxins they release as they migrate through the body has yet to be verified.



Usually the initial symptoms of candidiasis occur in the GI tract and are caused by widespread inflammation in the small bowel. These include symptoms of bloating, diarrhea, constipation, gas, cramping, rectal itching, and a feeling of fullness. If prolonged (usually for more than a year), leaky gut syndrome can follow, triggering multiple food allergies and sensitivities.



In severe cases of candidiasis, the toxins released by candida can cause tissue damage in other organs throughout the body and inhibit the function of suppressor T-cells, thus weakening the immune system. These white blood cells modulate antibody production. When weakened by candida, they produce an excess of antibodies which, in combination with poorly digested proteins caused by leaky gut syndrome, account for the multiple adult-onset allergies experienced by many people suffering systemic, or whole-body, candidiasis. When this occurs, even normally tolerated exposure to common chemicals can cause severe allergic reactions. An immune system weakened by candidiasis can also produce antibodies to the body's own tissues, resulting in severe PMS, hypothyroidism, fatigue, irritability, depression, headache, and cravings for sweets. Feelings of spaciness or mental fog is another common symptom of candidiasis, as are poor memory and concentration, and mood swings. What follows are the symptoms that are most common.



Brain and neurological: fatigue and lethargy, mood swings, depression, irritability, diminished ability to concentrate, impaired memory, headaches, insomnia, feelings of spaciness or "fuzzy headedness."



Urogenital: vaginal itch or burning, recurrent prostatitis, recurrent urethritis or cystitis, burning on urination.



Skin: acne, scaly skin, generalized itching, hives.



Ear: recurrent ear infections, ear pain, diminished hearing.



Musculoskeletal: joint pain, muscle pain/ache.



GI tract: constipation, diarrhea, cramping, bloating and distention, mucousy stools, indigestion.



Respiratory: chronic stuffy or runny nose, itchy throat, recurrent sinusitis and other infections, postnasal drip.



Female conditions: severe PMS (including feelings of Depression and anxiety), irregular periods, painful periods, decreased libido, endometriosis-like symptoms.



Senses: blurred vision, watery eyes, salty or metallic taste.



Other: intolerance to heat and cold, overweight. Additional warning signs include rapid heartbeat, cold extremities, and sensitivities to foods (especially dairy products and foods containing dietary yeasts and molds), chemicals, and inhalants.



The Health Plus Letter, July 15, 2003, Vol. 1, No. 2.Copyright © 2003 by Larry Trivieri, Jr.