An intestinal yeast infection develops when yeast, which is naturally present in our intestines, multiplies to a level that is beyond normal. The yeast in our intestinal tract will not become an infection as long as the immune system keeps this yeast in balance and the bacteria that control it remain at a stable level. To understand more about this condition and how it can be cured, read on.

Causes of intestinal yeast infections

The balance that we need to keep the Candida albicans housed within our bodies in check can be upset by several factors. These can include using antibiotics, which can weaken the immune system and rid our stomachs of the ‘good’ bacteria that keep Candida in balance. The weakening of the immune system can also be caused by other diseases and also by stress. Once this happens, we become more prone to developing a yeast infection in the intestinal tract.

Intestinal yeast infection symptoms

Symptoms of this condition include diarrhea, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease and flatulence. A person suffering from this infection might also experience food allergies or food sensitivities, oral yeast infection or thrush and itching in the rectum area. Pain in the lower abdomen, especially after eating, can also be a symptom of infection, in addition to joint pain.

Diagnostic methods

A stool test is often the first test administered by a doctor to determine whether a person has an intestinal tract yeast infection. The Indican test, which measures the ratio of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the stomach, is another method of diagnosing the condition. Testing the blood alcohol is also another way of determining whether the yeast balance within our stomachs has been upset.

Intestinal yeast infection treatment options

Most of the time, a stomach yeast infection is treated using natural methods. Although oral drugs may be prescribed, most doctors are reluctant to advise using these medications because they could create other stomach-related problems and may even aggravate the condition.

Often times, a yeast infection diet program is suggested to the patient, which is mostly comprised of fresh vegetables and complex carbohydrates. Dietary supplements that contain digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements are also recommended by some doctors to help strengthen the stomach and protect it against bad bacteria.

An intestinal yeast infection can remain undiagnosed for years because its symptoms can be misconstrued as causes of entirely different conditions. If you ever experience some of the symptoms mentioned, consult a doctor and ask for some tests specifically designed for yeast infections.

No Comments »

No comments yet.

RSS feed for comments on this post. TrackBack URL

Leave a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.