Candidiasis is the infection of mucosal surfaces (e.g. mouth, ears, nose, gastrointestinal tract and vagina) with a fungus called Candida albicans. As there are a number of surfaces that can be affected, the spectrum of possible symptoms is diverse. Systemic candidiasis results in the overgrowth of the fungus throughout the body and this can lead to candida septicaemia, which is a common cause of serious illness in patients with cancer and AIDS. Candida can manifest as athlete’s foot, jock itch, thrush and diaper rash.
Symptoms: The possible symptoms are broad and this often leads to the misdiagnosis of candidiasis.
Possible symptoms include: constipation, abdominal pain, impotence, prostatitis, sore throat, congestion, night sweats, severe itching, burning tongue, bladder infection and vaginitis.
Who to consult: Dietician, GP, herbalist, dentist, pharmacist.
