Testimonial

About a year ago, I was suffering from all-over body pain for several weeks, when I decided to attend the Amber Centre. I was suffering from a yeast infection "Candida". I was prescribed herbal medication, and, after about a week, the pain began to ease. I was a few months on this treatment; after which I was completely free from infection. Now, one year later, I feel great! And the infection has not returned.

Eileen Murphy
Mullingar

What is Candida?

Candida infection, also known as candidiasis / candidosis or thrush, is a yeast infection caused by the Candida species of fungus (usually Candida albicans). The fungus thrives in warm, moist areas such as the vagina, mouth and digestive system where it can exist without causing any symptoms. Thrush infection of the skin can also occur.

It is only when there is an overgrowth of Candida that symptoms occur.

Causes

The growth of the fungus is normally kept in check by the harmless ‘good’ bacteria in the body and by and the body’s immune system.

Symptoms appear when the Candida is allowed to over produce. This happens when the body’s defenses are lowered in some way due to:
• A weak immune system as a result of disease (cancer or HIV) or cancer treatment (chemotherapy).
• Antibiotic treatment; antibiotics kill the good bacteria that keep Candida levels under control.
• Hormonal changes (such as the menopause, pregnancy, the pre-menstrual period, or birth control pills) can decrease the level of normal bacteria in the vagina.
• Spermicidal use.
• Diabetes; recurring or stubborn cases of vaginal candidiasis may sometimes be an early sign of diabetes.
• HIV infection; oral thrush is an early but rare sign of HIV infection.
• Sexual activity; vaginal thrush can be passed on by sexual intercourse with a partner who has a Candida infection.
• Stress can sometimes be a trigger.
Oral thrush can occasionally be caused by using a corticosteroid inhaler. It can also be caused by poorly fitting dentures, excessive use of antibacterial mouthwash and dry mouth conditions. Oral thrush in babies is very common and is not usually associated with any other illness.

Candida infection can develop in men if the penis isn’t dried carefully after washing. Candida also thrives on skin that is already damaged. Using perfumed shower gels and soaps can irritate the penis, making thrush more likely to develop.


Symptoms

Vaginal infection

Common symptoms of vaginal Candida infection are:
• Vaginal discharge; this is usually a thick, white discharge (looks like cottage cheese).
• Vaginal itching.
• Redness, soreness and swelling of the vagina and vulva.
• Burning feeling during urination.

Thrush in men

Symptoms of thrush in men include:
• Swelling and redness of the head of the penis and foreskin. Sometimes small red spots may be seen on the head of the penis.
• Itching.
• Tenderness after sexual intercourse.
• Passing urine may be painful.
• Thrush may cause the foreskin to swell and crack.

Yeast infections of the penis are more common when the penis is uncircumcised.

Candida skin infection

Candida skin infection appears as a red, itchy rash. There may be small red spots at the edge. In babies, Candida infection can sometimes complicate a nappy rash.

Oral thrush

Typical signs of oral thrush in babies include:

The inside of the baby’s mouth may be red and sore.
• Creamy yellow or white spots on the tongue and inside of the cheeks, which may leave a raw area when rubbed.
• Baby may be off his feeds.

Thrush can be transmitted from the baby to the mother during breastfeeding, causing:

• Breast pain during feeding
• Cracked and/or sensitive nipples and areola
• Shooting pain, burning or an itching sensation in the affected breast.

In adults, oral thrush appears as red, sore-looking areas inside the mouth, especially at the back of the throat if thrush is caused by steroid inhaler use. The characteristic white spots may also be present.