Intestinal candidiasis occurs when the immune system is weakened, favoring the excessive proliferation of Candida albicans in the intestine. This disease must be identified and treated quickly, since if the fungus reaches the bloodstream or other organs it can be fatal.
The treatment for intestinal candidiasis is established by the doctor according to the severity of the disease and the person's immune status, and the use of oral antifungals, such as Fluconazole, for example, is indicated.
Main symptoms
Symptoms of intestinal candidiasis are usually related to the disease that led to a decrease in the immune system and imbalance of intestinal flora. However, it is possible to suspect intestinal candidiasis when small whitish residues are observed in the stool, which is indicative of the excessive proliferation of the fungus.
When intestinal candidiasis affects the blood system, signs and symptoms may appear in other regions of the body, such as changes in the digestive system, nervous system and skin, for example.
The diagnosis of intestinal candidiasis is made through co-culture, which aims to identify microorganisms, in this case the fungus Candida albicans in the feces. It is also important to identify the cause of candidiasis so that treatment can be more targeted and so that complications can be avoided. Understand how the stool test is done.
Treatment of intestinal candidiasis
Treatment for intestinal candidiasis is done by eating food supplements and medications that strengthen immunity, since the proliferation of the fungus depends on the person's immune system.
Antifungal drugs are usually recommended in order to decrease the growth rate of the fungus, such as Fluconazole, whose dose and time of use should be recommended by the doctor according to the person's age, severity of the disease and immune status.
Causes of intestinal candidiasis
Intestinal candidiasis occurs when the immune system is compromised, resulting in an imbalance of intestinal flora. The main causes of intestinal candidiasis are:
- Crohn's disease; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Autoimmune diseases; Chronic diseases, such as cancer and AIDS, for example; Pregnancy; Poor diet; Stress.
In addition, the use of some medications, such as antibiotics, contraceptives and corticosteroids can favor the occurrence of intestinal candidiasis, for example.
