What is Candidiasis?
Candida is a yeast-like fungus that is a commensal, which means it is normal to have it in the body and when we are healthy it does not cause any problems. It is normally present on the skin and in mucous membranes such as the vagina, mouth, or rectum and is also a normal inhabitant of the human gut. However, when our microbiota (the bacteria that live within us) become dysbiotic, candida can transform to become a pathogenic (injurious) invasive fungus and give rise to Candidiasis which is caused by overgrowth of Candida, predominantly Candida albicans. The fungus grows best in warm, dark conditions and in the presence of sugar. Under these circumstances, Candida albicans changes from small dormant spores to a branching structure called a mycelium with the ability to invade and irritate tissues.
What causes Candidiasis?
Anything that may disturb the normal balance of yeast and bacteria or the pH levels in the digestive or vaginal tracts can create ideal conditions for the overgrowth of yeasts. Normal balance can be disrupted by many factors: • Hormonal changes during pregnancy • The combined oral contraceptive pill • Steroid drugs (e.g. for asthma treatments) • Antibiotics – these kill off the good bacteria making it easier for yeasts to grow • Diabetes – the increased levels of sugar encourage the yeasts to proliferate • Endocrine imbalances – low thyroid and adrenal function, perhaps as a result of stress and blood sugar imbalances, can support the growth of candida. • A diet high in sugar and low in protein – yeasts and bad bacteria thrive on sugar and refined, simple carbohydrates • Anaemia and lack of iron – these can reduce resistance to infection • Other deficiencies – lack of zinc, vitamin B and vitamin A have all been documented as reducing resistance to infection and leading to yeast overgrowth. • Long illness and periods of stress – the immune system may not function properly during these times and susceptibility to infections like candidiasis increases
What are the symptoms of Candidiasis?
Common symptoms include: • Bloating and flatulence • Rectal itching • Constant fatigue • Depression and mood swings • Poor memory • Muscle or joint pains • Headaches and migraine • Oral or vaginal thrush • Cystitis • Sore mouth and white-coated tongue • Cracking at corners of mouth • Fungal nail infections and athletes foot • Red sore rash on the skin in areas that perspire • General unwell feeling • Cravings for sweet things • Intolerance of alcohol • Sensitivity to foods containing yeast and mould • Sensitivity to damp weather
Why test for Candidiasis?
It is not always obvious that an overgrowth of Candida albicans is the problem due to the wide range of symptoms. Therefore, if you are experiencing a range of these symptoms and have been subject to any of the causes highlighted above, then a test can identify if you have candidiasis.
How does the test work?
CNS uses conventional ELISA based technology to detect the presence of IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies to Candida albicans within the blood, to establish whether an individual has a recent, past or ongoing candida infection. The levels of these specific antibodies within each sample are then compared with normal reference ranges and a subsequent report is produced to detail the findings.
What will the test results tell me?
CNS offers a combined test for the detection of elevated levels of IgM, IgA and IgG antibodies to Candida. The test is an effective diagnostic and treatment monitoring tool, as IgM results indicate an early-stage infection and IgG results indicate an actively ongoing infection or the occurrence of a past infection. The addition of IgA, helps to determine if the infection is occurring in the mucous membranes.
What can be done if I have Candidiasis?
As Candida albicans Candida albicans thrives on a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates and a compromised immune system allows it to flourish, the best approach is, under professional guidance to follow and anti-candida protocol. This may include: • Avoid all foods high in sugar and yeast • Increase immune-boosting foods • Include (under the guidance of a professional) natural anti-fungal agents and supplements to help the body fight naturally against the overgrowth • Include probiotics to help to re-colonise the digestive tract with beneficial bacteria • It is important to remember that it can take weeks or even months to eliminate Candidiasis as it is necessary to follow a comprehensive programme of dietary modification and supplementation that requires co-operation and discipline. People with an overgrowth of Candida albicans are often predisposed to food intolerance. To support optimal health, it is recommended any food intolerances are also identified.
What are the sample requirements and test turnaround?
Simply collect a finger-prick blood sample using the components provided in the Sample Collection Pack and send to the CNS Laboratory using the pre-paid envelope supplied. Results are available within 10 working days.
Questions:
If you have any questions or queries about this and any other tests please contact us here and we will be happy to help.
