Candida albicans is a type of yeast that can cause fungal infections in the mouth, vagina, skin, stomach and urinary tract. If your immune system is compromised due to HIV or other diseases, you may be more prone to candida overgrowth, also known as candidiasis. Antibiotics can also increase the risk of candida overgrowth, as they deplete the normal flora of the gastrointestinal tract and create an opportunity for candida to colonize the area. As an adjunct to to conventional methods of treatment, probiotics may be of some use in eradicating candidiasis.
Vaginal Irritation
Candida is normally present in the vagina where, under most conditions, it does not cause any health problems. It is only when there is an overgrowth of the fungus that candidiasis occurs. When candida yeast overcolonizes the vagina, it can cause itching and discomfort along with a white, cottage cheese-like discharge. Vaginal yeast infections are common; around 75 percent of all women will have at least one during their lives, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A doctor may use vaginal wet smears to diagnose the condition and prescriptions or dietary changes to treat it. Medications to treat vaginal candidiasis include tablets, suppositories and creams that can be prescribed or purchased over the counter.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a condition where a candida yeast overgrowth causes an infection in the mouth. This type of infection typically occurs in infants, senior citizens and those with compromised immune systems. According to Clark College Health Services, oral thrush is characterized by a white film that coats the tongue, inner cheeks and palate. The infection can spread down into the esophagus, causing esophagitis. Most infections last less than 2 weeks after treatment with antifungal medications begins.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that have been found to have various health benefits. They are found in fermented dairy products such as yogurt and kefir, and are also available in pill, powder and liquid forms commonly sold at health food stores. Most probiotics are bacterial in form, with Lactobacillus and bifidobacterium being the most common. These "friendly" bacteria live in the gastrointestinal tracts of healthy people, but when their numbers are depleted the opportunity for harmful bacteria to overcolonize occurs. Some alternative health practitioners recommend probiotics for the treatment and prevention of candidiasis The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that evidence for the effectiveness of probiotics in the treatment of candida is mixed, but probiotics are not known to have any negative effects and a trial of probiotic treatment won't make the condition any worse.
