Commonly Asked Questions About Systemic Candida

How does one test for Candida?

There are some home tests that can be done to test for Candida, including the spit test, where you spit into a clean glass of water in the morning and watch to see what happens. If you have Candida, the spit will likely be cloudy and will start to extend tendrils down into the glass of water, sink to the bottom, or float in particles at the middle of the glass. Clear spit that stays at the top of the glass is not infected.

There are blood tests, urine tests, and even fecal tests that can be used to test the levels of Candida in your body.

Is systemic Candida contagious?

Yes and no. Candidiasis itself isn't necessarily contagious. For example, you can't pass your urinary tract infection, IBS, or depression on to others.

Athlete's foot is highly contagious, whether you have an acute or chronic infection. Vaginal yeast infections and jock itch aren't considered sexually transmitted diseases, per day, but you can definitely pass your infections back and forth with your intimate partners and should avoid that type of contact if you have symptoms impacting your reproductive organs.

Is systemic Candida life threatening?

Yes, it can be. If the yeast organism enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body, you can become incredibly ill.

Many people find themselves, at the later stages of a chronic infection, taking anti-fungal medications but not addressing other diet and lifestyle changes needed to really find relief.

How is Candida ultimately treated?

That's the tough part for most people. Antifungal medications are great for reducing the excess Candida in the body.

Some herbs and natural supplements are often used to decrease yeast levels and support your immune system as well. These things are all great, but they can't stand alone. They need to be combined with a program that alters your diet and your lifestyle so that you can completely eliminate your overgrowth without contributing to the yeast infection.

Stress reduction is critical to your success as well. You'll need to talk to a naturopath or doctor for a full treatment plan and make sure you follow it to the letter for several months. Deviating from the plan is likely to cause your infection and symptoms to come back.

An acute Candida yeast infection may be bothersome, but it's treatable. Chronic candida infections, or systemic infections, can be more serious to your health and well-being. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and research and don't be afraid to question the use of broad spectrum antibiotics. You have the right to ask for further testing or, if necessary, a second opinion.