Systemic yeast infection is also referred to as "systemic candidiasis" or "opportunistic infection". It is a condition of severe fungal overgrowth. The Candida attacks the deeper regions of the body. Systemic yeast infection happens when candida changes from the healthy state to a type of fungus that invades the liver, bloodstream, along with the urinary tract and other systems of the body. Systemic yeast infection is in fact very tough to detect and has the capacity to destroy the other candida subtypes.

According to various levels of severity of the condition, candidiasis is divided into three types:

• Occasional infection: Vaginal candidiasis, oral thrush, and candida balanitis are examples in this category. Most women and newborns have been known to have suffered the "occasional" candida infection at some or the other point in their lives.
• Chronic yeast infection: This signalizes a weak immune system, and may be a forewarning of some impending serious illness.
• Systemic or opportunistic infection: This kind of yeast infection is not confined to any specific body part but may affect any part of the body.

Symptoms of systemic yeast infection:

• Unexplained fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Sensory disturbances
• Chronic migraines
• Dizziness
• Respiratory troubles
• General weakness
• Gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, constipation and gas
• Oral thrush
• Burning and itching in the rectum and the surrounding area.
• Genitourinary problems like cystitis, chronic infections of the urinary tract, yeast vaginitis as well as menstrual problems.

Causes of Systemic yeast infection

Generally candidiasis happens when the form of yeast Candida that is normally present in the vagina, mouth or intestines multiply creating an imbalance within the system. Systemic or opportunistic yeast infection is a type of condition where the immune system cannot stop the overgrowth of the Candida. The intestinal environment has high sugar, acid or toxins which becomes conducive for the growth of systemic yeast infection. The overall wellbeing of an individual and his normal functioning are greatly affected when systemic candidiasis strikes the different organ systems and the body parts. Some of the underlying causes of systemic yeast infection may be:

• Weak immune system.
• Granulocytopenia or less blood cell count.
• Past neglect of localized yeast infection.
• Unhealthy diet consisting of processed food and sugars as well as high alcohol intake.
• Indiscriminate use of antibiotics.
• Use of contraceptive pills.
• Tight clothing.
• Hormonal changes in women associated with pregnancy and menopause.

Diagnosis

Some tissue tests and blood tests are performed to detect systemic yeast infection. A patient’s stool sample is also analyzed by the physician to make sure that the person is actually suffering from a yeast infection. Another test procedure followed for detecting systemic yeast infection is taking a small infected part and observing that under a microscope. Culturing is another technique followed. In this case after rubbing a sterile swab over the affected surface, it is left for incubation at almost normal body temperature. The yeast is allowed to grow its colonies. The visible features of yeast growth, most important of which is the color, is used to ascertain the exact kind of infection as well as the severity.

Cures associated with systemic yeast infection

The antibiotics generally do not work with systemic yeast infections. Thus planning the treatment becomes really necessary. There are chiefly two kinds of curative methods as well as drugs for this kind of infection. One type is known as systemic drug and the other is called topical. The systemic drug works for all body systems whereas the topical medications typically work on the specific regions of infection. Some examples of topical drugs are econazole, amphotericin B suspension, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole. The medications come in the form of ointments, creams, mouth rinses, or lozenges that are given in accordance with the level of infection as well as the location. The systemic therapy is usually applied when infection persists subsequent to topical therapy.

Another way of dealing with systemic yeast infection is the consumption of pills whose main component is created from charcoal. The charcoal tablets help to cure bloating and indigestion associated with a severe outbreak of yeast infection.

Prevention of systemic infection is the best solution rather than looking for cures. Following a planned diet with low sugar and carbohydrate content is necessary. Heavy consumption of probiotics is required to counteract yeast feeding on body carbohydrates. Protein intake should be curtailed, while fructose must be preferably excluded from the diet. Green vegetables, healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, and coconut oil will help to regain a healthy, normal intestinal flora leading you to the path of recovery.

Any sign of yeast infection should not be neglected. Timely diagnosis, following a correct diet plan, as well as right medical attention can help in managing systemic yeast infections.