Thrush is the common name for a condition that results in the overproduction of a form of yeast that is normally found in the body at low levels.
Candida is not considered something to worry about; however, recent research has highlighted this form of yeast that is causing the medical profession to reconsider its entirely benign assessment of candida. It is inside all of us: in the digestive tract, mouth and throat. In women, it is also found in the vagina. The most common species of candida is called candida albicans.
When the human body is weakened, it is vulnerable to attack. Consider that at all times various bacteria, viruses and other pathogens are waging an invisible war against the body. Also, the immune system is always on guard, waiting for the attack. In response to outside invasion, the corps produces various weapons to combat hostile aggression. Sometimes, if the body is weakened due to a number of conditions and situations, the immune system cannot do its job properly.
A common condition caused by candida is candidiasis. Thrush is a buildup of candida that can affect both men and women. Up to seventy-five percent of women will experience at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, caused by an overgrowth of candida.
These common conditions are bothersome, but they do not represent the symptoms of chronic Candidiasis. Chronic candida overproduction can lead to a wide range of physical and mental symptoms. It can manifest as abdominal pain, fatigue, skin infections, and even cognitive difficulties. There seems to be such a degree of problems related to candida overgrowth that candida is often ruled out as a cause.
In chronic candidiasis, the rapidly multiplying candida changes form. It transforms into its dangerous fungal state and spreads.
The fungal form of candida produces rhizoids, barbed, hook-shaped appendages that cut through tissue and membranes, causing pain and other damaging symptoms. If left untreated, a condition called Leaky Gut Syndrome can develop in the intestinal tract.
Leaky gut syndrome allows toxins to leave the digestive tract and feed directly into the bloodstream. It is also interesting to note that once someone begins treatment to remove the candida overgrowth, the initial reaction to the treatment will often result in the patient actually feeling worse! This is due to the fact that the fungal form of candida does not want to die and fights like hell to survive!
In addition, there are indications that candidiasis can affect people who do not have compromised immune systems. New research has indicated that people with healthy immune systems can also fall victim to the spread of candida rhizoids. This is important because it presents a way for science to identify root causes rather than simply treating symptoms.
It is very likely that Candida is responsible for more problems than you think. Before starting treatment for candida, you should try to read up on the subject and fully understand what is involved. As with anything else, knowledge is power.
