What’s more, repeated bouts of chronic sinusitis can lead to nasal polyps. With symptoms such as headache, runny nose, nasal congestion, and impaired ability to taste and smell, sinusitis can make life miserable. Chronic Sinus InfectionsĪccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 33 million Americans suffer from chronic sinus infections (sinusitis), defined as inflammation and swelling of the sinuses that last for 3 months or more. This disease can affect every part of the body, including the heart and brain, and may be life-threatening. Moreover, the disruption of the intestinal mucosa that characterizes leaky gut syndrome can allow Candida to leak into the bloodstream, where it can lead to a serious infection called invasive candidiasis. In other words, a vicious cycle can be created in which inflammation promotes the growth of Candida and the growth of Candida promotes inflammation. Study researchers also point out that prior studies have shown that high levels of Candida delay healing of “inflammatory lesions,” and that “inflammation promotes colonization.” Common symptoms of an imbalance in gut bacteria may include:Ī 2011 study published in the journal Current Opinion in Microbiology links an overgrowth of Candida to health issues like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. However, if the ratio of good to bad bacteria is thrown off and the bad bacteria begin to outweigh the good, a multitude of digestive issues can result. The good bacteria aid nutrient absorption by processing carbohydrates, fibers, and sugars and support gut health by defending the body against invading microbes. Gut Bacteria Imbalanceīoth good and bad bacteria live in the digestive tract. The authors of the study describe evidence indicating that Candida overgrowth depresses the activity of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, both of which are necessary to prevent reactivation of the viruses linked to chronic fatigue. One study suggests that candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract may even lead to chronic fatigue syndrome. Immune System CompromiseĬandida infections frequently occur when the immune system becomes weakened. However, infections of the nails may also occur. The infection is most likely to be seen in the skin folds, where moisture content is highest-for example, the armpits and groin and beneath the breasts. albicans that naturally lives on the skin can become invasive and lead to infections of both the skin and nails. Recognizable by its classic symptom of creamy white, cottage cheese–like lesions on the tongue, cheeks, and sometimes throat (where it’s called esophagitis), oral thrush is often seen in people with weakened immune systems, though poor oral hygiene and dentures can increase your risk as well. These include:Īn overgrowth of Candida albicans in the mouth can lead to a condition known as oral thrush. Candida Overgrowth and Your HealthĪ number of medical conditions are associated with Candida overgrowth, or candidiasis. Interestingly, Candida overgrowth can also result in a vicious cycle in which imbalances in the body lead to overgrowth of the yeast and increased numbers of the yeast lead to yet more imbalances and health problems. Factors such as antibiotic use, uncontrolled diabetes, immune compromise, and oral contraceptive use can all cause an overgrowth of Candida. But Candida is also an opportunistic pathogen whose numbers can balloon out of control under the right circumstances. Most of the time, healthy bacteria and the body’s immune system keep levels of Candida yeast in check. However, it’s also a normal part of the flora of the human body and can be found in small numbers on the skin and mucous membranes, including the mouth and genitourinary and gastrointestinal tracts. albicans is the most common cause of fungal infections. What Causes Candida Overgrowth?Īs mentioned, C. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at this common yeast and discuss the signs and symptoms of Candida overgrowth and the steps you can take to bring your body-and your health-back into balance. But what causes this overgrowth, and what can we do to stop it? It’s only when something happens to throw off the body’s balance that Candida overgrowth occurs. Yet everyone has Candida living in (and on) their body, all the time. The genus Candida is made up of hundreds of species, including Candida albicans-the most common cause of fungal infections. But did you know that yeast can also bring disease? And one type of yeast, Candida, is particularly notorious for its ability to cause infection. Yeast are one-celled fungi that help bring us many of the things we love, like leavened bread and beer.
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