Candidemia is a systemic yeast infection that can cause flu-like symptoms and mental disturbances. Risk factors include weakened immune systems and ongoing health issues. Treatment involves antifungal drugs and addressing any symptoms that have arisen. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the infection.
Also known as invasive candidiasis orfungaemia, candidemia is a form of yeast infection that is capable of producing a great deal of discomfort. There are several factors that increase the risk of developing a systemic yeast infection of this type, with diseases that weaken the immune system being one of the most common causes. Because there are no direct tests that distinguish this infection from other yeast infections, the diagnosis often depends on the experience and knowledge of the treating physician.
There are many different symptoms for this condition. Some of these are common with any type of yeast infection, while others are symptoms related to many other health problems. While no single individual is likely to experience a full range of symptoms simultaneously, it is not unusual for symptoms to vary in type and intensity as long as the infection is present.
One of the most common indications that this type of yeast infection is present is exhibiting flu-like symptoms. Head congestion, throbbing headache, stuffy nose, and a general sense of tiredness may be mild at first, then start to increase over time. There may also be problems with memory or an increase in irritability. Some sufferers will sometimes experience mental disturbances such as anxiety or mild depression.
Risk factors mostly have to do with the presence of other health problems that have significantly taxed the body’s resources. Ongoing health issues, such as type 1 and 2 diabetes or kidney infections that require dialysis, can contribute to the development of this type of yeast infection. Severe burns can lead to candidaemia and various factors that undermine the function of the immune system. Using a catheter also increases the chances of developing an infection of this type.
When it comes to candidemia treatment, there are no over-the-counter drugs or home remedies that are universally accepted as effective. Instead, the use of drugs such as fluconazole or amphotericin B is used. Since amphotericin B can be somewhat toxic, patients who are already significantly weakened by the yeast infection are usually treated with fluconazole first. In most cases, intravenous administration is the most effective method.
Effective candidemia treatment also requires addressing any symptoms that have arisen as a result of the infection. For example, medications to help control anxiety or boost the immune system will often be a significant part of the overall treatment scope. As with many types of infections, recovery from candidemia can take anywhere from several days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the infection at the time of diagnosis.
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