About Chronic Candida Symptoms

Candida, a form of yeast, often lives harmlessly in the colon or on the surface of the skin. Dr. William Crook, author of "The Yeast Connection," proposes that subclinical yeast overgrowth may be responsible for a variety of common illnesses. Though controversial, the concept of chronic candiasis has become very popular in alternative health communities.

Clinical Candidiasis

• The most obvious manifestation of chronic candida overgrowth is frequent, symptomatic yeast infection. This may manifest as thrush, vaginitis, or dandruff.

Bowel Symptoms

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome and bloating respond to treatment using probiotics ("friendly" bacteria that fight yeast) possibly because chronic candidiasis is an underlying cause of the disorder.

Sugar Cravings

• According to Dr. William Crook, chronic yeast overgrowth may be responsible for excessive sugar cravings, since candida thrives on carbohydrates.

Fatigue and Irritability

• Since any chronic subclinical infection can drain the immune system, Dr. Crook suggests that candidiasis is be the underlying cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and other common maladies.

Controversy

• Chronic candidiasis is not fully understood, and mainstream medical professionals believe that the syndrome is exceedingly rare (or even nonexistent). Further study is needed on the topic.