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The Hidden Dangers of Candida Albicans: Understanding the Risks and Treatments

What is Candida Albicans?

Candida albicans, a common yeast, is a normal part of our microflora, living in our gut, skin, and vagina. However, when it grows out of control, it can cause infections. Candida albicans is the most common form of yeast that leads to fungal infections.

Common Types of Candida Albicans Infections

There are four common types of Candida albicans infections:

• Urinary Yeast Infection: Candida albicans is the number one cause of fungal urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Genital Yeast Infection: Both men and women can get genital yeast infections, with women being more likely to contract them.
• Oral Thrush: This yeast infection occurs in the mouth, throat, or esophagus when normal amounts of Candida multiply and create an infection.
• Mucocutaneous Candidiasis: This infection occurs on the skin, particularly in warm and moist areas like the armpits and groin.

Risk Factors for Candida Albicans Infections

Certain circumstances can cause Candida to grow out of control, leading to infections. These include:

• Antibiotics: Changes in immune response, such as during stress
• Environmental Changes: pH shifts or diet switches
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV or taking medicines that weaken the immune system (steroids, chemotherapy)
• Medical Devices: Having a medical device inserted, such as a urinary catheter

Symptoms and Treatments of Candida Albicans Infections

Each type of infection has its own set of symptoms and treatments. For example:

• Urinary Yeast Infection: Symptoms include urge to pee often, pain or burning when peeing, and lower abdominal or pelvic pain. Treatment typically involves antifungal medication.
• Genital Yeast Infection: Symptoms include burning feeling while engaging in sex or peeing, itchiness or pain in or around genitals, and abnormal discharge. Treatment involves antifungal cream, pill, or suppository.

Preventing Candida Albicans Infections

To reduce the risk of Candida albicans infections, practice good hygiene, wear cotton underwear, and avoid “self-cleaning” your vagina. Wearing a condom can also help reduce the risk of STIs and yeast infections.

Complications of Untreated Candida Albicans Infections

If left untreated, Candida albicans infections can lead to more severe complications, such as:

• Candidemia: A bloodstream infection that can lead to prolonged hospital stays, high medical costs, and even death.
• Endocarditis: A rare but fatal condition with a mortality rate of around 50 percent.
• Endophthalmitis: An infection that can spread to the eyes and cause blindness if left untreated.

Diagnosing Candida Albicans Infections

To diagnose a Candida albicans infection, your healthcare provider will need to:

• Know your medical history
• Know your symptoms
• Perform a physical examination
• Conduct laboratory tests

The Bottom Line

Candida albicans is a normal part of our microflora, but certain circumstances can cause it to grow out of control and lead to infections. While most of the time these infections affect one specific area, there’s a chance that it could spread to your blood or other organs if left untreated. If you suspect a Candida infection, make an appointment with your doctor to get a confirmed diagnosis and proper treatment.