Systemic yeast infections are serious fungal infections that can affect multiple areas of the body, causing symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and skin rashes. They are more likely to occur in people with weakened immune systems and can be diagnosed through blood tests and physical exams. Treatment involves antifungal drugs and, in severe cases, hospitalization and surgery.
A systemic yeast infection is a potentially serious type of acute fungal infection. Species of the genus Candida normally live inside the human intestine without causing health problems, but they can become active in people who take certain medications or have weakened immune systems. A systemic yeast infection affects multiple sites in the body and can cause symptoms ranging from body aches to skin rashes to dizziness. Antifungal drugs are effective in treating most infections if they are given in the early stages of the infection.
Candida fungi are present in almost all people. They tend to colonize moist areas of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, mouth, and female vagina. People who are in relatively good health rarely experience major yeast infections throughout the body. If an infection occurs, it is usually localized, for example with athlete’s foot, vaginitis or oral thrush. A systemic yeast infection is more likely to occur in very young or old people, or in individuals who have particularly weak immune systems. Patients with AIDS and people taking drugs that suppress the immune system such as steroids or chemotherapy drugs are at increased risk.
Symptoms of a systemic yeast infection can vary widely, but most patients develop a high fever, headache, and fatigue as the infection spreads through the bloodstream. Joint and muscle pain are common, as are digestive problems such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, constipation and nausea. An infection can cause very painful sores in the mouth and throat that make eating, talking, and even breathing very uncomfortable. Also, a large area of skin can become very dry, itchy, and flaky. Dangerously high blood pressure and extreme mental confusion are possible if an infection is not discovered and treated early.
Most systemic yeast infections can be diagnosed through thorough physical exams and blood tests. Blood is collected and cultured in a laboratory to confirm the presence of fungi and to determine exactly which species is responsible. An endoscope can be used to look at damage to the throat or uterus. MRI scans and other diagnostic tests might also be done to see if the heart, lungs, brain, or other organs are affected.
A person who has severe symptoms is usually hospitalized and given intravenous medications and fluids. Antifungal drugs such as nystatin and fluconazole are given in high doses to fight pathogens and stop them from spreading further. Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs may also be given, depending on the symptoms. Emergency surgery may be needed in extreme cases where the kidneys, heart or brain are severely compromised. After hospital treatment, a person can expect a long recovery period from a systemic yeast infection which consists of bed rest and daily use of medications.
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