1. CONSTANT SUGAR CRAVINGS

It’s no surprise that sugar cravings will be common with an infection that thrives on sugar for its growth.

Often dinner does not feel complete without “something sweet” afterwards.

2. CONSTANT FATIGUE SYNDROME

While a Candida infection is not the only cause of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), many doctors believe it heightens the risk of CFS by lifting cortisol levels.

CFS is characterized by fatigue and exhaustion that lasts a minimum of six months and is often accompanied by other symptoms, including headaches, joint pain and stiffness, insomnia, dizziness, difficulties with memory and concentration, and sore throat.

3. MOOD DISORDERS

Individuals with Candida overgrowth may experience dramatic mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression and even panic attacks. Feeling “drunk” or “hung over” is a very common symptom also.

4. RECURRING VAGINAL AND URINARY INFECTIONS

Recurring vaginal discharge, itching, stinging or thrush infections, and recurring cystitis or urinary infections are both common with Candidiasis.

It is important to realize that candida can be sexually transmitted, and partners can spread it back and forth.

For women, reduce the risk by avoiding tight-fitting underwear or pantyhose, and avoid hot baths during an active infection.

5. ORAL THRUSH

Oral thrush is actually a fungal infection, caused by the same strain of Candida that affects other mucous membranes, including the vagina. It produces a white coated tongue, difficulty swallowing and bad breath also. There may also be cracks on the tongue and on the corners of the mouth.

It is communicable; newborns can get thrush during birth, children can get it from sharing toys with other children, and adults can pass it back and forth through the saliva.

Left untreated, it may spread through the body including the digestive tract, lungs, liver and heart valves.

6. SINUS AND EAR INFECTIONS

Dysbiosis of the digestive tract often leads to dysbiosis of the sinus and ear cavity and causes inflammation of the mucous membrane, which in turn results in the blockage of the drainage ducts, and fluid retention in the sinus and ear cavities

Symptoms include persistent cough, post-nasal drip, an increase in congestion, seasonal allergies, general flu-like symptoms, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), sensitivity to smells (such as chemicals and perfumes), and bacterial infection later on.

Antibiotics often suppress bacterial infection, but promote a Candida outbreak and lead the body into a vicious cycle of frequent recurring infections.

7. INTESTINAL DISTRESS

Persistent flatulence, burping, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea, indigestion, acid reflux, and stomach cramps may be caused by a lack of healthy bacteria in your digestive tract, which allows fungi to overtake the intestines.

8. BRAIN FOG

Candida overgrowth can cause a lack of focus and mental clarity, feelings of confusion, poor physical coordination, difficulty in concentrating on tasks and poor memory.

9. SKIN AND NAIL INFECTIONS

Tinea (areas include the feet, groin, scalp and beneath the breasts) and fungus in the toenail (onychomycosis) are common fungal infections, which stem from the same breed of Candida (C. albicans).

Continued infections may be a sign that you have a systemic Candidainfection.

Candida infections can also cause hives, acne, itchy ears, eyes or anus, and can lead to body odour also.

10. HORMONAL IMBALANCE

A Candida infection can cause early menopause, PMS, erratic periods, a low sex drive, migraines, endometriosis, water retention, mood swings, low thyroid function, weight gain, and an inability to lose unwanted kilos.

Increased oestrogen levels (e.g. triggered from contraceptive pills) can support the unregulated growth of Candida. Left untreated, Candida overgrowth can lead to oestrogen dominance, causing an imbalance of hormones in the body.