What Is Candida & Why Does It Occur?
Candida is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a yeast naturally present in the body. Under normal conditions, Candida is harmless, but when the immune system is weakened or the body’s natural balance is disrupted, it can proliferate and lead to infection.
Common Types of Candida Infections:
- Oral Thrush: White patches in the mouth, throat, or tongue that may cause discomfort.
- Vaginal Yeast Infection: Symptoms include itching, irritation, swelling, and thick white discharge.
- Skin & Nail Candida: Red, inflamed skin or fungal nail infections that worsen in damp areas.
- Gut Candida Overgrowth: Can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, and discomfort.
What Triggers Candida Overgrowth?
- Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, cancer, chemotherapy, or corticosteroid use.
- Antibiotic use that disrupts the natural bacteria balance in the body.
- High sugar diet that feeds yeast overgrowth.
- Hormonal changes from pregnancy, birth control pills, or menopause.
- Wearing tight, damp clothing that creates a warm environment for fungal growth.
Who Needs Candida Treatment?
Treatment is recommended for individuals who:
- Experience persistent itching, burning, or discomfort in affected areas.
- Notice white patches in the mouth or on the tongue.
- Have unusual vaginal discharge and irritation.
- Suffer from digestive issues linked to Candida overgrowth.
- Experience recurring yeast infections (>4 episodes/year), prompting evaluation for underlying systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes mellitus).
Best Ways to Treat Candida Infections
Candida can be treated with antifungal medications, self-care practices, and lifestyle adjustments to prevent future infections.
Antifungal Medications for Candida:
- Oral antifungals help eliminate Candida from the body (Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Diflucan).
- Topical antifungal creams relieve vaginal or skin infections (Gyno-Daktarin, Gyno-Miconazole, Nystatin).
- Antifungal shampoos & lotions treat Candida-related scalp or skin infections (Nizoral).
Candida Testing & Diagnosis:
- Self-tests for vaginal infections detect yeast overgrowth (Candida-Check® vaginal self-test).
- Laboratory tests such as swabs or blood tests may be necessary for systemic Candida infections.
Home Remedies & Prevention Strategies:
- Reduce sugar intake to prevent feeding yeast overgrowth.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear to keep the vaginal area dry.
- Use probiotics to restore healthy bacteria in the gut.
- Practice good hygiene and avoid scented soaps in sensitive areas.
- Use protection during intercourse to prevent Candida transmission (Durex Condoms).
