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What are the Stages of Candida?

Candida is a naturally occurring yeast in the body. However, if there is an imbalance in the body, the bacteria can grow excessively and take control of microorganisms. Candida resides in the intestinal tract, mouth, throat and genitals. The problem is that Candida can make its way into the bloodstream by making holes in the intestinal tract. Candida is a dangerous bacterial yeast that consists of five developmental stages.

  1. Stage 1

    • In stage one of candida, mucous membranes such as the mouth, vagina, and nose have the bacterial yeast growing inside. Even the respiratory system can be infected during this early stage. For a woman with a vaginal infection, she can have severe menstrual cramping, heavy bleeding, vaginal infections and rashes that cover a small or large portion of the body. Mouth infections often manifest through oral thrush or acne. Respiratory infections are also common through sinusitis, tonsillitis, strep and staph, but can also lead to recurring problems such as bronchitis and pneumonia. This early stage is an important time to have treatment before the infection is able to spread. Antibiotics work to kill flora, which allows Candida to grow in the body.

    Stage 2

    • In the second stage of Candida infection, there is pain in muscles and joints, fatigue, nail infections, and psoriasis or arthritis. This stage of Candida infection may be overlooked by physicians who may treat the symptoms rather than looking for the cause.

    Stage 3

    • Stage three of Candida, involves the neural system. Treatment is more important and Candida may become more difficult to treat as time progresses. It often begins with the inability to contract or follow a book or movie, but can develop into confusion, forgetfulness, and memory loss. As these symptoms progress, patients become more depressed. Additional symptoms often include sleep problems, fear, panic attacks, twitches, violence, epilepsy and seizures, as well as aggression.

    Stage 4

    • Candida in the fourth stage starts to shut down the processes of body organs and makes them more susceptible to infection. Fever often develops during this time, but the hands and feet are normally cold. If the yeast start to grow in the lungs without oxygen, it may be difficult to speak, sing or participate in other activities. During this stage, the immune system may fail leaving the body unprotected.

    Stage 5

    • The last of stage Candida may lead to death as the yeast has shut down the immune system and stopped organ function. If Candida enters the bloodstream, the infection can lead to sepsis, meaning the entire body has become inflamed. Sepsis is treated with IV fluids, antibiotics, and close monitoring of organ function.

    Treatment of Candida

    • Early treatment of Candida is extremely important so that the bacteria do not overrun the body. If caught early, Candida can be treated with prescription antibiotics. In some cases, it may involve anti-fungal topical ointments for body rashes. If the infection is left untreated, then an inpatient hospital stay with IV medication may be necessary to cleanse the body from infection.

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