8 candida symptoms and possible causes

What is Candida?

Candida is a type of yeast that naturally exists in your intestines and in moist areas on and within your body, such as the mouth, oesophagus, vagina, and skin. Typically, its presence goes unnoticed. However, under certain conditions, this yeast can begin to grow and form filaments. The candida fungus can then penetrate the skin or mucous membranes, leading to an infection.

What are candida symptoms?

A candida infection can lead to a variety of symptoms. It is uncommon for someone to experience all symptoms at once. The symptoms of a fungal infection largely depend on the location of the infection. The eight most common symptoms of candida are:

• Stomach and intestinal symptoms, such as bloating, a swollen abdomen, flatulence, constipation or diarrhoea, food intolerances, and heartburn. Candida in the intestines can sometimes mimic other gastrointestinal conditions. Consult your doctor if you experience abdominal pain alongside a fungal infection or if the symptoms persist or recur.
• Allergic reactions, such as hay fever, skin rashes, itching, or a chronically blocked nose.
• Sensitive or burning areas on the body, including athlete’s foot, swimmer’s eczema, candida on the skin, or fungal nail infections.
• Vaginal symptoms, such as pain during intercourse, white discharge, burning sensations when urinating, vaginal itching, and redness. Symptoms of a vaginal fungal infection may also include thick, white discharge without a strong odour.
• Symptoms in men, such as a red, scaly, or itchy glans. Candida in men is less common than in women but can cause symptoms on the penis.
• Anal symptoms, such as itching around the anus. A fungal infection in this area can sometimes resemble haemorrhoids or irritation caused by other factors.
• Oral symptoms, such as bad breath, a dry mouth, white patches, or blisters. Candida in the mouth is also referred to as thrush. Fungal infections can also occur in the throat, on the gums, or in the oesophagus.
• Fatigue-related symptoms, such as an increased need for sleep and sleep disturbances.

If you notice specific symptoms, such as threads in your stool, persistent abdominal or back pain, a fungal infection around the navel, or a combination of a swollen abdomen and significant white discharge, have these evaluated by a doctor. These symptoms could also indicate another underlying cause.

Candida infection of the genital organs

A candida infection of the genital organs primarily affects women, typically manifesting as a vaginal yeast infection. Many women experience this condition at some stage in their lives, and some may suffer from it recurrently.

Contrary to common belief, a candida infection is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Although a vaginal yeast infection can, in rare cases, be transmitted through sexual contact, this is uncommon. If you are a woman experiencing a candida infection of the genital organs, you may notice symptoms such as itching and irritation in or around the vagina, a burning sensation during urination or intercourse, vaginal discomfort, redness and swelling of the vulva, and a white, cottage cheese-like discharge. These are typical signs of a yeast infection in women.

In rare instances, a candida infection can result in more severe symptoms, including pronounced redness, swelling, and itching. This may lead to cracks, fissures, or sores.

In men, a candida infection of the genital organs is less frequent. A yeast infection in men may present with symptoms such as redness, itching, flaking, or irritation of the glans. The underlying cause of a yeast infection in men is often a disruption of the skin's natural balance. A candida test can assist in confirming the presence of candida.

How does a candida infection develop?

A local candida infection occurs when changes in the environment where this yeast species naturally resides allow it to multiply, leading to overgrowth. The causes of candida can differ from person to person. The natural balance may be disrupted by:

• Prolonged use of antibiotics.
• Use of other medications.
• Extended use of synthetic cortisone preparations. Certain asthma inhalers, for instance, can trigger a candida infection in the mouth or oesophagus.
• Prolonged periods of stress.
• A weakened immune system due to illness.
• Frequent consumption of processed carbohydrates, fast food, ready meals, and alcohol.

How does a vaginal yeast infection develop?

It is not entirely clear why some women are more prone to vaginal yeast infections than others. However, certain factors are known to trigger the development of a candida infection in this area:

• Pregnancy. During pregnancy, higher levels of oestrogen are produced, which increase the temperature and humidity in the vagina. A warm, moist environment provides ideal conditions for fungi to thrive.
• Hormones. Throughout the menstrual cycle, oestrogen levels fluctuate, which also impacts the vaginal pH. The risk of a yeast infection is higher just before menstruation.
• Diabetes. If you have diabetes and your blood sugar levels are poorly controlled, you are at an increased risk of developing a yeast infection.
• Excessive hygiene. The use of soap, bubble baths, vaginal douches, and intimate sprays can disrupt the vaginal pH, creating an environment where candida can grow.
• Vaginal injuries. Sexual activity or inserting a tampon can cause minor injuries, making it easier for a yeast infection to develop.
• Improper toilet hygiene. Wiping from back to front can transfer fungi from the gastrointestinal tract to the vaginal area.
• Tight or synthetic underwear. Fabrics that trap heat and moisture can contribute to the development of a candida infection.
• The contraceptive pill. Hormonal changes caused by the pill may also play a role in the occurrence of a vaginal yeast infection.

Diagnosis of candida

A candida infection typically occurs locally, such as in the mouth, on the skin, in the intestines, or in the genital area. A local candida infection is often straightforward to identify due to its associated symptoms. Your GP can diagnose the condition based on these symptoms. In some cases, a culture may be taken for further analysis.

On rare occasions, the infection can spread through the bloodstream to affect the entire body. This is known as a generalised candida infection. This form can present with a broad range of symptoms and may mimic other conditions. A doctor can only confirm the diagnosis definitively through additional testing.

Treatment of candida

Do you suspect you have a candida infection? If so, contact your GP, particularly if the symptoms are severe, recurrent, or persist. Treatment typically involves antifungal medication. The appropriate treatment will depend on the location of the infection and the nature of your symptoms.