/r/Candida

Photograph via snooOG

Candida, IBS, Crohn, etc

/r/IBD

/r/candida

A place for those experiencing candida in any of its forms to come for advice, recipes, tips and the benefit of community wisdom and support. Getting a diagnosis of candida is confusing! The internet seems divided on nearly all fronts and finding conclusive advise on how to proceed with ridding yourself of this stubborn gut fungus sometimes seems overwhelming. We're stuck in a weird middle ground between western medicine and crystal healing where few experts dwell! We are each other's best hope.

/r/Candida

21,231 Subscribers

1

Is this significant

I don’t know the reference for what is a significant number or not. I also have a log of fat malabsorption and other digestive issues.

1 Comment
2024/12/02
13:33 UTC

1

Is this oral thrush, I have a constant feeling of dry mouth and quiting smoking 4 months ago.

1 Comment
2024/12/02
11:02 UTC

0

Help with GI Issues (warning: stool pic included)

Cross posting this in a few subs but seeking some advice. Any / all answers much appreciated.

Male / 31 years old. I have had on and off GI issues for about a year. Noticed the multiple rope / string like pieces in my most recent bowel movement, any thoughts? I have seen these pieces a time or two before but it was only one smaller “string” connecting pieces of stool and was smaller / not as long.

For additional background, I have experienced some weight loss (8-10lbs). I normally weigh ~205lbs and have consistently weighed 192-195lbs for the last 5-6 months. I did a stool test via a GI doctor February that came back clean but GI symptoms persisted. Additionally I am waiting to see a new GI doctor since I was not particularly satisfied with my care. I plan on getting another stool test through my primary care doctor in the interim.

I went to the Dominican Republic and also Puerto Rico at end of last year for what it’s worth. Pointing out because in the DR I got what I thought was travelers diarrhea on day 2 of 5 and to me that’s generally where I noticed the start of these problems.

Thanks all in advance for the help

8 Comments
2024/12/02
04:36 UTC

1

Nystatin and Fluconazole

Got diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection and oral thrush the same week. The fluconazole pill worked almost instantly with resolving any itching, but noticed when I started the nystatin oral I got an insane amount of drainage from the vagina. Like liquid but a lot more than I have ever seen. Has this happened to anyone else?

0 Comments
2024/12/02
04:36 UTC

2

carb vs sugar content

Wondering if there are any studies or even just thoughts on how candida eats true fructose vs carbs that are turned into sugar once digested.

With a quick google search it says that with the anti-candida diet your carb content should be under 60g. I believe anything around 30 or less is considered keto. This is because many of you are eating vegetables and other "approved" carb sources. These carbs get turned into sugar in the body and can technically feed candida.

I am currently carnivore but wondering if I would still be able to see results doing "animal-based" instead and eating fruit, seeing as my carbs would still be much lower than the anti-candida diet. Wouldn't it be just as effective? Or does candida feed differently on fructose vs digested carbs? I'd much rather eat no vegetables and no starchy carbs but allow myself a serving or 2 of fruit a day instead.

3 Comments
2024/12/02
03:24 UTC

2

Oral thrush

I knew something was wrong for a while. Years. I felt like a brewery about to explode. Every part of me inside and out. We'll.... I think I finally bubbled over, so to speak last Tuesday. It hit oral. I was already treating a few spots on my skin with the cream. I called my gyno to see if she could fit me in. She chuckled and said canesoral capsule. Take one and you'll be fine. Spoiler alert, I'm not fine. Took the one pill last Tuesday. Started to feel it work within the hour. When I say I felt deflated .... my pee no longer is full of fizz. I'm no longer bloated. The only thing .. my mouth got worse. I now have white spots on my gums and red on the inside of my lips and tip of my tongue. Do I have options? I'm also have crohns/colitis/celiac disease, so my immune system is struggling, to say the least. I have a feeling this turned antifungal resistant quickly. Cause why would it work everywhere else but not my mouth? I also have pcos/endo and have been on birth control since I was 10. I'm currently 38. I need to know what if anything I can do. What are medical options? Are there at home remedies? I already do a salt water rinse. I switched to yeast free bread🤢👀 I cut my sugar intake drastically. I'm at the end of my rope. I need advice please and thank you!

1 Comment
2024/12/02
01:52 UTC

1

Candida guide

I have been suffering with gut problems for over a year now not feeling like myself. Especially after drinking feeling like crap for 3-4 days and not being able to eat like a normal human dealing with brain fog constipation stomach pain blurry vision at times and feeling lethargic. Being a student athlete I would like some advice on what to do as from I understood the Candida diet is quite intense. Please could someone advise me on what to do whether that be a supplement stack and of course a diet change in order for me to feel my 100% self again.

2 Comments
2024/12/02
01:14 UTC

1

Long-Term Itch (Suspect it to be Fungi/Candida-related) -- Please Help

Preliminaries:

I am now a 26-year old male. For years now, I have had issues of recurring (what I believe to be) fungal itch, but in the past year it has reached an intolerable heights: I cannot get any sleep or relief at all, and the itch has become more widespread and diffuse, though still most concentrated in the groin region. I’m really suffering – I’m so exhausted and cannot get any rest. I’ve seen a number of well-respected dermatologists, and have gotten nowhere. 

This post comes with a somewhat long story, which I’ll recount in detail in the hopes that someone here might be able to help me identify the cause of the itch and a course of action. Judging by some posts in this subreddit, others are dealing with similar issues: hopefully my post helps shed light on others’ problems as well. Thank you warmly in advance for all those who read through this.

Timeline:

As a 19-year-old, I had some minor issues with itch – in both groins, in the crease between my penis and scrotum, and between my buttocks. Not knowing any better, and not – at the time – having insurance, I used a betamethasone/clotrimazole (steroid/antifungal combination) cream (which I was given by a friend) for a few days upon feeling an itch, which would settle things down. Sometimes I would go a year before I’d need to use the cream again; and, sometimes, only a couple of months. But, whenever I’d use it, it would reliably take care of the itch and inflammation for a while. I used the cream very intermittently – never more than a couple times a day for longer than couple days in a row, these spells of application never occurring more frequently than once every couple of months or so. Between the ages of 19 and 23, I also had ringworm once or twice, which responded well to over the counter antifungals.

When I was 23, the itch installed itself more persistently in the creases and folds of my groins, scrotum, and buttocks. I would use the steroid/antifungal cream more frequently. Sometimes the itch would present with a bumpy rash and inflammation, but not always. It was at this point that I noticed the efficacy of the betamethasone/clotrimazole cream diminishing – it would buy me a few hours of relief, but then the itch would ‘bounce back’, more severe than before. Fearing long-term use of steroids, I used every available topical anti-fungal, which kept the itch minorly under-control without ever healing it completely. I used terbinafine, micronazole, clotrimazole, ketoconazole (cream and shampoo), Head and Shoulders shampoo, zinc undecyclate, and other topicals. Literally every one I could get my hands on. Eventually, one by one, the topicals became less effective, and I’d switch to another. Before long, there weren’t any others to switch to. Simultaneously, I was dealing with quite itch scalp, which I’d treat – cautiously and as needed – with a betamethesone solution (as well as Nizoral and Head & Shoulders shampoo). I saw my physician, who provided me with courses of oral anti-fungals. I started off with a two-week course of itraconazole, and it fixed the issue for about a month, until it came back. I then did a longer course of oral fluconazole, which, again, fixed it temporarily, but it returned. The same happened with rounds of oral fluconazole and oral nystatin: it will temporarily lessen or fix the itching (both on the groin and the scalp), but then it would return some weeks later. I also occasionally had what looked like Seborrheic Dermatitis in the creases at the corner of my nose. I occasionally used steroid creams in this time when things got really bad and I need some short-term relief, but this was never very frequently.

Finally, when I turned 25, things began to get horrible. Not only was I dealing with the usual groin/buttock/scrotum/scalp itch, but also with a diffuse itch all over my body, that presented without any visible rash or inflammation: it was a phantom itch, and there was nothing I could do to relieve it. The itch was more severe in the groin region than elsewhere, but it was present all over. My groin region, while just as itchy as it had ever been, if not more , didn’t present with any rash or inflammation either. I took antihistamines every night; I took Amitryptiline and Ketotifen for sleep and histamine response; none of these really helped. I eventually went online and bought a six-month supply of oral Nystatin tablets from Germany, which relieved the itching to a small extent without ever fixing it. I also began to apply topical Nystatin to my groin region, which doesn’t eradicate the itch completely, but does seem to help a little. I have tried all manner of other solutions too: elimination of carbs, application of coconut oil, oral undecylenic acid, use of ‘binders’ like charcoal. I've used lots of powders to absorb sweat as well. At some point, dermatologists began to suspect that it might not be fungal, since we tried to take a scraping and it came back without conclusive results (as I said, it’s been presenting without a scaly rash for the last year, so there wasn’t much to scrape). I still tend to suspect that it is probably fungal, since I’m mostly itch in fungal hotspots (groin and scalp) and since I’ve historically been somewhat responsive to anti-fungals. But I’m not sure anymore...

I am currently prescribed by my dermatologist another course of fluconazole, this time for three months. It is not very effective yet, and I am two months in. I am still taking Nystatin and still eating very little carbs and still applying topical Nystatin and -- very occasionally -- steroid creams. Truthfully, this has decimated my life. I have not really slept for years; I just roll around at the interface of slumber and waking; there's no deep sleep. And there's not even a rash to show for it - my skin looks totally fine, but itches to a horrendous extent. If anyone has dealt with anything similar or has any advice to offer, I would be very grateful. Thank you for reading.

7 Comments
2024/12/01
21:59 UTC

0

Candida or?

How does it looks to you, as candida or something else? I'm having stomach gurgling gases, burpling, skin issues from time to time... as well.

3 Comments
2024/12/01
21:53 UTC

1

Biologic / Tremfya causing intense overgrowth - success stories?

Long time issues with Candida imbalance that ebb and flow. I recently started Tremfya, a biologic that blocks the immune response. Yeast overgrowth and infections are a stated side effect. I am in an intense overgrowth now, and it's wreacking havoc with my ability to do basic tasks due to the severe fatigue. I am embarking on a regime of biofilm busters at night and antifungal antimicrobials during the day as per mickeynutzz and others but it's the underlying trigger of the drug and how that may change in the months ahead that interests me.

Is there anyone who's been on Tremfya or a similar biologic for more than a few months? Did things improve? Did you have to abandon it? Thanks in advance.

0 Comments
2024/12/01
21:38 UTC

2

NAC

First Time On NAC,which i took with some water, Stomach feels insane (extreme stomach pain)is this normal?

1 Comment
2024/12/01
18:32 UTC

3

Candida + Lupus

Hi, folks!

I was diagnosed with severe candida overgrowth of my stomach, esophagus, small intestine spring 2023. I underwent nearly 6 months of intense treatment (so awful) and finally healed.

Last week, I was diagnosed with Lupus (SLE). I wanted to put a plug in that candidiasis is the third most prevalent infection in lupus patients. If battling with candida is one of your “weird” medical mysteries, it might be worth checking in with a rheumatologist. After my diagnosis, it’s like all the different health data points and issues I’ve experienced finally have a golden thread.

Best of luck to you!

8 Comments
2024/12/01
18:26 UTC

1

What’s this on my lips?

I’ve been told this is fungus/yeast infection but quite frankly i’m not so sure. Does someone have a similar problem with the lips? this has been going on for 4 years now.

2 Comments
2024/12/01
16:16 UTC

1

Should I take a biofilm buster?

I’ve had 4 bouts of vaginal thrush since August. I’ve taken a suppository and cream which cleared it but it returned after a week. I’ve now taken flucanazole two tablets as it came back.

I have a couple of questions, im in England,uk.

I asked my GP if I can be tested for the type of candida it is, what strain etc and she said et don’t do that here or can’t do it. Is that true?

As the thrush is reoccurring, does that mean next time I take the medicine to get rid of it, I should also prior to that take a biofilm buster? I’ll ask my GP but something tells me she will say it won’t make a difference, as when I asked about diet to beat it she said nothing really works in terms of food or diet 🤔

I’ve cut out sugar, Vitamins I take are: Garlic capsule Wild oregano capsule Zinc Probiotic tablet for vaginal health Omega 3 capsule Flaxseed capsule Cranberry with vitamin C.

What else can I take? I have a thin coating of white on my tongue that goes when I brush it but it returns quickly so not sure if that’s candida too or not.

My inner thighs are sometimes itchy too so not sure if that’s got to do with the thrush.

Any advice please I’d really appreciate it

6 Comments
2024/12/01
15:26 UTC

3

Just started with die off

My brain is foggy headache feels like i want to puke i stopped with sugar and smoking.

1 Comment
2024/12/01
11:23 UTC

1

Die-off while the traveling (please help!)

Hi everyone! I’m hoping someone has helpful advice. I have been combing Reddit and the internet for hours. My husband and I are in Sri Lanka now (4 days into a 3 wk trip) and he’s struggling with symptoms.

We think the influx of healthy food paired with spices like cinnamon and cardamom is what kicked this off. He ran a fever yesterday but feels cooler now (still a bit warm). The worst was last night when he vomited and had cold chills. He has intense headaches and joint pain. We’ve both had food poisoning before and are confident that this is die-off as he has been though die-off before in his attempts to get off sugar.

My question is this- how can we get him stabilized and feeling pretty good with the intention to start a proper protocol when we’re home? Basically we just want to stop the die-off if possible.

Things I have on hand: Acetaminophen (taking below max dose) Activated charcoal (gave him 2 capsules last night) Electrolytes (taking) Vitamin C (not taking) Saccharomyces boulardii (not taking) Magnesium glycinate (not taking) Turmeric (not taking) Zicam (not taking) Pepto-Bismol (not taking) Non-drowsy Dramamine (ginger) (not taking) Lysine (not taking) Astragalus (not taking) Olive leaf extract (not taking)

What would you do in a situation like this? Is there anything from my list that you’d add in?

Right now I’m just encouraging him to rest and sip water. He was able to eat a little watermelon this morning (yay!) He is open to taking charcoal again but he threw up ~1hr after taking it last night. Thanks for any advice!

1 Comment
2024/12/01
04:54 UTC

3

What is happening to me. Please help i feel like im going crazy

I have no idea if this is candida or not. But im going insane because ive tried EVERYTHING. im up sobbing at night and sometimes through the day because of how itchy i am. Now this is a bit of a gross explanation, but i need to see if anyone is experiencing the same thing. I have itching in the vaginal area, but it is strictly like, the clitoris region, which is strange. but its violent itching. And the only way i get relief is by pinching the skin and rubbing. it isnt an itch i can relieve by actually scratching, if that makes sense. I am not sexually active, I use unscented soaps in that region, I eat extremely clean: I havent had refined sugars in over a year (and i mean NONE. I am so insanely diligent, i check ingredients of every single thing i eat. i dont eat any sauces or jams or ketchups or any food with added refined sugars). I have been off gluten for months, AND off all yeast products (no breads of any kind, gluten/gluten free). i have tried boric acid supposities, clotrimazole supposities with the external cream, candida pill supplements, applying coconut oil and tea tree oil, im on low carb diet now too. NOTHING is helping. For the past long time now ive been clearing out blastocytis hominis parasites that i tested positive for (but that has been going on way before this itching started. but i wanted to mention it in case someone might know if thats important). I have been off of dairy since April. I am taking coconut kefir and coconut yogurt for the probiotics. I use all natural pads and liners. I live in Canada so i dont live in a hot and humid climate. And i still feel like im going crazy with this itching. I also have milky liquidy discharge sometimes, but again, i have absolutely ZERO itching in the vaginal opening where the discharge is coming from. Just the clitoris area and i have no idea why. Can anybody tell me what they think might be going on?

32 Comments
2024/12/01
02:41 UTC

2

Help! Is this candida?

Ive had this white film at the back of my tongue for 4.5 years after a mono infection. I’ve been formally diagnosed with Me/cfs (not very helpful) and have tried almost everything to increase energy. After my organic acid test came back with slightly high Arabinose, I thought candida could be a possibility.

Any thoughts? My tongue doesn’t seem excessive like some people I’ve seen in this forum. I was thinking of doing a s’ight candida cleanse with caprylic acid + digestive enzymes + spore probiotics

9 Comments
2024/11/30
21:57 UTC

1

Does Labiaplasty reduce Candida?

I have severe vuvla Candida from 8 months I took 14 pills diflucan still I have pain and doc suggested me to do minora labiaplasty 😭 what should I do?

0 Comments
2024/11/30
21:01 UTC

2

Anyone taking iodine pls answer 👇👇

8 Comments
2024/11/30
19:42 UTC

2

What are your thrush staples???

my mother commented on my walk. She asked me why i was walking like I’d shit myself… unfortunately for me I’m constantly getting Candida albicans. I think due to antibiotics I took a couple of weeks ago. I was taking probiotics on them and a few after I finished. My discharge is not thick and crumbly but more sticky and excessive and like a creamy colour. It always has been when suffering with this malarkey. The probiotics I was taking had the following ingredients: Saccharomyces Boulardii: 7 Billion colony forming units Lactobacillus Rhamnosus: 5 Billion colony forming units Lactobacillus Acidophilus: 3 Billion colony forming units Zinc (Zinc Citrate): 5 Mg

So in total 15 billion.

My gyno has just told me to use canesten for 3 days.. I have tried everything you have read on the forums in the past.

So what are your staples when you feel a yeast infection coming on?

4 Comments
2024/11/30
18:51 UTC

1

Dirty tongue coating… Candida?

Hey everyone, I’ve been dealing with a yellowish, whitish coating on my tongue for a very very long time now, and honestly, I’m getting fed up with it. It looks, tastes, and smells terrible, and no matter how much I scrape or brush, it never seems to go away. I’ve always dreamed of having a healthy, red tongue, but I’m stuck in this situation. Could this be candida?. Anyone else been through this or have advice? I’m really at my wit’s end—anything that can help would mean a lot. Thanks!

7 Comments
2024/11/30
17:37 UTC

1

Have you tried sprouts' "yeast buster" ?

what do you think about it? it suggests putting it in water but is it okay to put it under my tongue and then drink water after?

0 Comments
2024/11/30
17:00 UTC

1

Is this candida???

1 Comment
2024/11/30
16:25 UTC

1

Urine / esophageal culture - when?

How many days after stopping anti fungals do you take a urine culture? I’ve been taking itraconazole for 12 days without improvement and my doctor who prescribed it for oral thrush is wondering if it’s not candida at all but something bacterial. How long should I wait after the antifungal to test? Keeping in mind that there has been no change in symptoms so whatever was there is still there. Thank you!

1 Comment
2024/11/30
13:35 UTC

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