Health Network News

A Candida throat infection (also called Candida albicans throat) can be caused by an illness, some medications, or stress. It is a fungus which lives naturally within our G.I. tract without any problems since the friendly bacteria that our bodies produce keep it at bay. However, if you are feeling run-down or stressed, the fungus can cause an infection.

Corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, and antibiotics can cause an oral yeast infection to spread. If you have untreated diabetes, AIDS or cancer, you could be prone to a Candida albicans throat infection. A pregnant woman is also at risk of Candida thrush because pregnancy often causes a severe imbalance of hormones.

Male Candida also belongs to the yeast infection Candida. However it is not usually associated with the throat. Male Candida is manifested by a rash on areas that are often damp such as the underarms, genitals and/or groin area. The symptoms are rash-like ,.

Painful or bleeding white lesions are usual, localized Candida symptoms. These appear on the tongue, inside the cheeks or in the mouth. The sores may bleed while brushing your teeth. In cases of chronic Candida, symptoms can further include fever and difficulty when swallowing. If you experience a feeling as though a piece of food in lodged in your throat or severe itching, this could be a sign that the Candida infection has extended into the esophagus.

The diagnosis of Candida throat usually occurs during a dental examination. If it is suspected that the infection has extended to the esophagus, an endoscopy may be necessary. A tiny camera is placed on a tube that is inserted in the throat and a video is taken. Or the dentist may take a swab of the fungus and have it examined with a microscope.

Prescription gargles and mouthwashes are effective and easy ways of treating Candida. But in the case of bad Candida infections, especially if your immune system is weak, you will have to use potent antifungal treatments for two weeks. These are prescribed as tablets, liquid, or lozenges.

The treatment will be given in accordance with the seriousness of the infection and the age of the patient. If the dentist suspects that some other medical condition may have caused Candida throat, he or she will suggest that you see your doctor because there could be some underlying immunity problems.

In less serious cases, you can try a holistic natural remedy. Gargle with warm water and vinegar, or mix some tea tree oil with coconut oil and gargle regularly. If you use tea tree oil, be sure not to ingest it, as this is very toxic to the digestive system. Eat lots of yogurt containing probiotics. The label will indicate this. Probiotics are live bacteria that are able to fight certain infections. If you want probiotics to be more effective, try taking them in pill form where they are more concentrated.

For the prevention of Candida throat, there are a few simple precautions. First, you should keep your mouth, teeth and gums clean. Floss and brush regularly. Stay away from using sprays and oral mouthwashes. These can affect your body’s natural yeast fighting bacteria.

Have regular check-ups at the dentist, especially if you have diabetes or if you wear false teeth. Don’t eat food that has a high sugar or yeast content. The primary food source of yeast is sugar. The Candida infection can be worsened by drinking beer, wine or eating bread. Finally, if you smoke, try and cut down or, better still, quit.