A General Overview of Systemic Yeast Infection
Candida fungus is a parasitic organism that is naturally occurring in the digestive tract. At low levels, it does not create any medical problem nor does it affect the normal physiological processes of the body. This fungus is kept in check by the right number of beneficial bacteria and by the body’s immune system.
However, if this balance in the normal flora is affected by conditions that lead to the overgrowth and proliferation of fungus, systemic yeast infection becomes a serious problem. This imbalance in the normal flora is linked to the use of anti-bacterial medication, diabetes, impairment of the immune system and hypersensitivity.
If the condition remains unchecked, the candida fungus will continue to proliferate and affect various parts of the body. The infection shall affect the vagina and the mouth. The infection shall continue to invade and affect various tissues of the body until it becomes a full blown systemic yeast infection.
Effects of Systemic Yeast Infections
As a result of the proliferation of the candida fungus in the different tissues of the body, it transforms from its harmless and simple form and become infective and invasive organism with its extended root-like components that pierce the lining of the intestinal tract. This invasive nature of candida fungus shall cause the breakdown of the boundary that sets apart the digestive tract from the blood circulatory system.
This event will lead to the introduction of harmful substances that may enter the bloodstream. These substances may contain irritants, toxins and systemic allergens. One of the major reasons for the emergence of environmental and food allergies associated with candidiasis is the introduction of partially digested proteins into the bloodstream through the openings created by the parasitic organism.
Signs and Symptoms of Systemic Yeast Infection
It is important that proper diagnosis is done by a competent medical health professional as in most instances; these signs and symptoms can be attributable to infections other than systemic yeast infections.
• Generalized symptoms – These include weakness, migraine, lethargy, dizziness, hypoglycemia, hypersensitivity, sensory problems, respiratory complications and muscle pain.
• Gastro-intestinal complications – This condition shall result to constipation, diarrhea and flatulence, sensitivities to various food items, IBD, itchiness in the rectal area and oral thrush.
• Genito-Urinary Tract Problems – This condition shall include pre-menstrual and menstrual issues, inflammation of the bladder, UTI, PMS, cystitis and vaginitis associated with yeast infection.
• Dermatological Problems – Related medical issues attributable to systemic yeast infection shall include hives, acne and eczema.
• Emotional and mental complications – Systemic yeast infection is also associated with memory loss, irritability, confusion, impaired concentration, insomnia, depression, limited attention span and learning disability.
• Autoimmune condition – This shall involve complications such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, scleroderma, myasthenia gravis, sarcoidosis and hemolytic anemia.
Diagnosis of Systemic Yeast Infection
Systemic yeast infections are diagnosed through simple fecalysis. In cases where there are food sensitivities, blood test may be recommended by your doctor. This is normally done through RAST or ALCAT panel in order to determine the reactive foods.