Systemic Yeast Infections - What You Need to Do When Candida Spreads!

You are likely most familiar with yeast infections that are localized to one area of the body, such as vaginal candidiasis. You may even know about Candida infections of other parts of the body, such as the mouth and throat, the penis, or the skin. These localized infections are the most common way that Candida presents.

However, it is possible for Candida to spread to the rest of the body and become a systemic yeast infection. This occurs when natural balances of the body are upset so that yeast can overgrow and invade. It may occur because of a weak immune system, certain medications, or because of medical illness. Lifestyle factors, such as sleep, diet and intake of toxins such as alcohol and tobacco can also affect the immune system, and therefore the concentration of Candida in the body.

It is important to understand that yeast lives in the body in small amounts in healthy people, usually in the digestive and genital tracts. It lives in a natural balance with other microorganisms, such as healthy bacteria. When this balance becomes upset, which can happen for the reasons described above, Candida can change into a more invasive form and spread to many areas.

Whereas a localized yeast infection will cause symptoms only in the area it affects, like the vagina or skin, a systemic yeast infection can cause bothersome symptoms all over the body.

For example, you may feel fatigued or have low energy. You may have vague muscle and joint aches or pains. There can also be psychological symptoms, such as mood swings and irritability. You may not be able to concentrate as well as you used to.

Systemic yeast can also manifest on the skin. You may have rashes or allergies you didn't have before. You may also have chronic Candida infections of the nails and skin.

The gastrointestinal tract, which runs all the way from the mouth to the anus, can also be affected. You may have Candida infections of your mouth, called thrush. There also can be digestive irregularities like digestive pain, constipation, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome. You may also develop new allergies and sensitivities to certain foods.

Of course, a systemic yeast infection can also affect the genitourinary tract, causing infections of the vagina or penis. With a systemic infection the symptoms can be more severe and can include pain during sex, urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and in women, menstrual pain.

If you have some of the above symptoms that are not explained by another medical condition, it is possible that you have a systemic yeast infection. Make sure to see your doctor, as these symptoms can also be caused by many other medical problems.

If you do have systemic Candida, you may need an antifungal medication to eradicate the infection. There are certain steps you take take, however, to reduce the concentration of yeast in your body and improve your overall health so that your immune system is more able to fight back against infection. Taking steps to sleep better, reduce stress, exercise and reduce toxins will all have a positive effect. Consider following the guidelines of an anti Candida diet, which can help "starve" yeast out of your body.