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Candida
A fungal
disease which affects many parts of the body, but is particularly likely to affect warm,
damp areas.
What to look for
Discharge
itching and burning in
the affected areas
infection in the mouth
causes small white patches on the gums, lips and inside the cheeks. These may be painful.
diarrhoea or constipation, adverse reactions to certain foods, depression, anxiety, irritability,
inability to concentrate, chronic fatigue, headaches and recurring cystitis. (more chronic candidiasis)
Causes
Candida is caused from the
actual Candida bacteria which is an organism which is often on the skin or in the gut of
most people. If the patient starts to get symptoms, it is because that another problem has
caused the bacteria to flourish more than usual. (Except in vaginal thrush - it can be
healthy and still be afflicted with thrush).
The elderly may get Candida
in the mouth. This is usually caused by ill fitting dentures, cuts or abrasions.
Babies are prone to getting
thrush in their mouth areas and this is quite normal.
Re-occurring thrush in
women can because of reinfection from a sexual partner or because of the continued use of
contraceptive pill.
Traditional Treatment
In the case of vaginal
infection, pessaries and creams are available and usually help to control the problem.
Mouth infections are
usually treated orally. If systematic infection has been diagnosed, it is essential to us
treatment which can get to the bloodstream.
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Alternative/Natural
Treatment
This condition is usually
kept in check by other ‘friendly’ bacteria, but if a person is ill, run-down, or
being treated with antibiotics, the fungus can grow. The virus does not live in acid
environments.
Echinacea, comfrey or
golden seal, barberry,
thyme and rosemary
are very useful herbs for this condition. You will need professional help on these herbs
and the required doses.
Dietary considerations
It is important to
build up your immune system so it can fight off any overgrowth of the virus. Avoid sugar
and refined carbohydrates and foods which contain yeast. Eat plenty of live yoghurt and
try supplements of acidophilus. Vitamin E and Evening Primrose Oil are helpful as well. Garlic tablets are good as well.
When to seek further
professional advice
Thrush can usually be
controlled by topical creams and alterations to the diet.
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