Content
Intestinal candidiasis occurs when the immune system is weakened, favoring the exaggerated proliferation of fungi of the genus Candida sp., mainly the species Candida Albicans, in the intestine, leading to the appearance of small whitish residues in the feces.
It is important that intestinal candidiasis is identified and treated quickly to prevent the fungus from reaching the bloodstream and spreading to other organs, causing complications. Treatment is established by the general practitioner or gastroenterologist 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 feces, 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 stool. In addition, it is recommended that the parasitological examination of feces be performed so that you can rule out the hypothesis of the presence of intestinal parasites. Understand how the stool test is done.
Causes of intestinal candidiasis
Intestinal candidiasis occurs when there is an imbalance of intestinal flora as a result of changes in the immune system. Thus, the main factors that can favor the development of candidiasis in the intestine are:
- Crohn's disease;
- Irritable bowel syndrome;
- Autoimmune diseases;
- Chronic diseases, such as cancer and AIDS, for example;
- Pregnancy;
- Bad eating habits;
- Stress.
In addition, the use of some medications, such as antibiotics, contraceptives and corticosteroids can favor the occurrence of intestinal candidiasis, for example.
How to treat
The 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.