Yeast infections can affect the whole body, not just the vagina or the mouth. They are not confined to women either. In fact, the list of possible symptoms associated with yeast infections reflects this:
* bloating of the stomach
* gas
* irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
* cold sores
* some types of arthritis
* eczema
* acne (In some cases)
* athletes foot
We all have a mixture of beneficial and harmful bacteria present in our intestinal tract. The ‘good’ bacteria generally keep this balance tipped in the favor of health. They ensure the bad bacteria are not able to grow, or colonize parts of our body where they aren’t found in healthy people. Unfortunately, sometimes things happen that destroy the beneficial bacteria and allow yeast, bacteria and fungi to populate areas of the body they wouldn’t normally have access to.
Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for candida yeast infections, is one of the first of the ‘bad guys’ able to take advantage of a decimated population of good bacteria.
What causes the population of good bacteria to decline?
It could be an antibiotic course. Or poor nutrition, a low immune system as a result of some illness, or some other factor.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of yeast infections can mimic other illnesses or infections. There are other bacteria that cause vaginal infections, and allergies, food sensitivities, gluten intolerance, IBD, and other gastrointestinal problems that may be causing symptoms relating to, or mimicking, candida. It’s important to look at the whole picture, especially if symptoms suggest food (and gluten) intolerance or IBD. Even with bacteria causing vaginal infections, care needs to be taken to avoid a misdiagnosis.
Not only will you be unable to find relief until the true problem is identified and treated, but you may contribute to the problem of treatment-resistant candida. This is really becoming a problem with the availability of over-the-counter yeast infection treatments.
If you’re trying natural remedies to deal with yeast infections, it may not create anti-fungal-resistant candida organisms, but you might not find your symptoms go away either. That’s why a trip to the doctor first can save a lot of frustration later. Even if you’re planning on using natural treatments, get a reliable (medical) diagnosis first!
