What is candida
Candida Albicans is a fungus / yeast that belongs to the saccharomyces family. It is defined as a “saprophyte”, that is, it feeds on waste materials. He is also called an “opportunist”, because he shows up when certain conditions are in place, and takes advantage of them – multiplying excessively. Where candida lives
Candida Albicans is naturally present in the human body, particularly in the intestine. Here he lives with it without worrying or causing damage. Why candidiasis comes
Therefore, if this fungus or yeast coexists peacefully with the human organism, things change when certain environmental conditions are modified due to factors such as an incorrect diet (for example, an abundance of sugars), the intake of certain drugs (for example antibiotics), a weakening of the immune system – in conjunction with an excess of humidity and heat. In all these cases, the fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably and take over, causing a whole series of health problems, even serious ones. What are the favorite victims of candida
According to estimates, the favorite victims of candidiasis (Candida infection) are women. Statistics confirm that about 75% of women have developed it at least once in their life. It is a recurring infection, and relapses affect about 45% of those who contracted it for the first time. Despite this, men are not exempt from it, and they too are often victims. What are the places where candida occurs
It can attack different parts of the body (especially between the folds of the skin). Candidiasis of the oral cavity, also known as Thrush, is more common in children. However, one of the favorite places of candidiasis is the area of the genitals – both female and male. In women, the elective site is the vagina (vaginal candidiasis), where it causes vulvovaginitis. In men, the most affected area is the penis and its various parts (the most typical form is Balanitis, which affects the glans). What are the symptoms of candida
Most of the time the presence of the fungus is asymptomatic, that is, one notices until it spreads in an uncontrolled way. When this happens, the most common and main symptoms are three:
- The presence of thick, whitish secretions (vaginal discharge in women or from the foreskin in men). They resemble curdled milk or cottage cheese.
- Itching , even very intense.
- Pain , especially when urinating and usually coupled with the first two symptoms.
Other symptoms may be swelling (swelling). It is also not uncommon that after the onset of the first symptoms – if not treated – purulent and bleeding ulcers can form.
When the infection becomes chronic, a feeling of general malaise may occur. And then chronic fatigue, forms of anxiety or depression, abdominal swelling, intolerances and allergies. What Causes Candida
The factors causing candidiasis can be different. Among these, here are the main ones: How to get a diagnosis of candidiasis
Usually the diagnosis is made by the doctor. However, in the presence of typical symptoms, it is often possible to tell for yourself that you have been affected by candidiasis. There are currently four methods of diagnosing this infection.
- The gynecological or andrological examination. Here the doctor will be able to observe possible visible signs of an infection being present.
- Microscope analysis. The analysis of vaginal secretions, for example, allows to identify the presence of Ife (filaments) of Candida Albicans.
- The cultivation method . This method involves the use of a vaginal swab to collect the secretions, which will then be analyzed in the laboratory to identify the pathogens responsible for the infection.
- Pap test . Female candidiasis can also be diagnosed with this diagnostic method.
How Candida is
Prevented Candida Albicans infection, or candidiasis, is prevented in several ways.
- Take care of the power supply. Avoid sugary and refined foods as much as possible (high blood sugar levels greatly increase the risk – not surprisingly, diabetic patients are often affected by the infection). Also avoid alcohol. Instead, prefer whole foods, fruits, vegetables, spices and seeds such as those of Anise. Also excellent are fermented foods rich in probiotics, which promote intestinal health: yogurt (without sugar), kefir, sauerkraut etc.
- Medicines. If not strictly necessary, it is better to avoid taking antibiotics. In case, counterbalance with the intake of enzymes for the intestine. Other drugs that can increase the risk are NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and oral contraceptives (pill).
- Clothing. Avoid using tight and / or synthetic underwear. Likewise avoid tight and tight pants. Instead, favor clothing in natural and breathable material.
- Stress. If possible, avoiding stressful situations is anything that can weaken the immune system.
- Hygiene. While proper hygiene is important, so is the use of suitable aids. Oral hygiene is good to be done properly and especially immediately after you have eaten sweet or sugary foods. Intimate hygiene should be done using non-aggressive detergents and with a neutral pH or that increases acidity. It is also important to dry your private parts very well after washing.
- Sex. Unprotected sexual intercourse (especially oral intercourse) can also promote the spread of the infection. Use both male and female condoms (condoms) or the appropriate film for oral intercourse.
Cures for Candida or Candidiasis
There are several ways to treat candidiasis: traditional treatments based on antifungal drugs and natural ones.
- Traditional care. Among the antifungals (or antifungals) there are both for oral and topical use. The most used orally are azole derivatives, ie imidazole drugs that attack the infectious agent by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol – this type of sterol constitutes the cytoplasmic (or cellular) membrane of pathogenic fungi. Other drugs, used locally (topically) are based on antifungal substances that act on the cell membrane of the fungi. These are shock treatments, which can however cause sensitization and possible resistance by pathogens. Finally, they do not avert the possibility of relapses.
- Natural cures. In the world of natural cures there are several solutions. These include the use of oral or local remedies based on herbs or essential oils. One of the most used and famous remedies is the colored Pseudowintera, which several studies have suggested to be very effective against candidiasis thanks to its active ingredient called Polygodial. This remedy, used in combination with Anise seeds, rich in Anethole, seems to be even more effective. At a local level, Tea Tree essential oil is useful, which can be used diluted (together with that of Chamomile which soothes itching) for washing, sponging, oral rinsing and so on. A healing oil can be prepared with 30 ml of sweet almond oil in which 4-10 drops of Tea tree and Chamomile essential oil will be diluted. You can also add 10 drops of Lavender essential oil. The mixture is applied locally, even several times a day depending on the case,
Another “home” remedy are intimate rinses, and not only, with a solution of sodium bicarbonate (which alkalizes the environment), to which the aforementioned essential oils can be added if desired.
