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What is Candidemia?

Malcolm Tatum
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 27,434
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Also known as invasive candidiasis or fungemia, candidemia is a form of yeast infection that is capable of producing a great deal of discomfort. There are several factors that increase the risk of developing a systemic yeast infection of this type, with illnesses that weaken the immune system being one of the more common causes. Because there are no direct tests that will distinguish this infection from other yeast infections, the diagnosis often depends on the experience and knowledge of the attending physician.

There are many different symptoms for this condition. Some of them are common with any type of yeast infection, while others are symptoms that are related to many other health issues. While no single individual is likely to experience a full range of symptoms at one time, it is not unusual for the symptoms to vary in type and intensity as long as the infection is present.

One of the most common indications that this type of yeast infection is present is the exhibition of flu-like symptoms. Head congestion, throbbing headaches, nasal stuffiness, and a general sense of feeling run down may be mild at first, then begin to increase over time. Problems with the memory or an increase in irritability may also be present. Some sufferers will sometimes experience mental disorders like anxiety or mild depression.

The risk factors mainly have to do with the presence of other health issues that have taxed the body’s resources significantly. Ongoing health problems, such as Types 1 and 2 diabetes or kidney infections that require dialysis, can contribute to the development of this type of yeast infection. Severe burns can lead to candidemia, as well as various factors that undermine the function of the immune system. The use of a catheter also increases the chances of developing an infection of this kind.

When it comes to candidemia treatment, there are no over the counter medications or home remedies that are universally accepted as effective. Instead, the use of medications such as fluconazole or amphotericin B are utilized. Since amphotericin B can be somewhat toxic, patients who are already significantly weakened by the yeast infection are usually treated with fluconazole first. In most cases, intravenous administration is the most effective method.

The effective treatment of candidemia also calls for addressing any symptoms that have manifested as a result of the infection. For example, medication to help control anxiety or strengthen the immune system will often be a significant portion of the overall scope of treatment. As with many types of infections, recovering from candidemia can take anywhere from several days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the infection at the time it is diagnosed.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Discussion Comments
By anon971064 — On Sep 23, 2014

I had long term h. pylori (no stomach problems) due to taking hundreds of antibiotics. None were needed.]I found on an h. pylori website that my symptoms were getting confused with candida.

I had a lot of symptoms and got itraconizole from a new gp (not very good, like most), and worked a little but still had symptoms and had blood tests. But, urine and body tissue sample tests are not accurate enough to diagnose the extent of the illness as found on a candida website I saw. I'm going to a gastroenterology department tomorrow to see experts.

By Cageybird — On Feb 08, 2014

To me, there are few things worse than yeast infections. They are so difficult to self-diagnose, and they rarely respond to OTC treatments like medicated cremes or pills. When my type 2 diabetes was out of control, I would get yeast infections in the folds of my skin all the time. Nothing I had at home would really stop the itching or the burning. I finally had to get some prescription creme and a fluconazole pill.

I don't know if I've ever experienced the symptoms described in this article, though. I felt like I had a bad rash all the time, but I didn't feel like I had the flu or depression.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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