How A Benign Fungus Can Become Life-Threatening

Researchers at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research’s Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology have discovered new molecular mechanisms that provide a more detailed understanding of how the normally benign Dr. Jekyll-like fungus known as Candida albicans transforms into a serious and often life-threatening Mr. Hyde-like form.

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Candida albicans is yeast like fungus existing in digestive tracts from mouth to rectum. It exists in small amounts in every one’s intestinal tract. Small amount of C. albicans is harmless, but in large amounts it can be life threatening.

It can contribute too many health problems like chronic fatigue, chronic female yeast infections, irritable bowel syndrome, skin rashes, food allergies, mold allergies and bloating. Candida albicans affect all areas of the skin as well as the mucus membranes, but it prefers warm moist areas.

Candida albicans infections that are found in mucus membranes or the genital areas are contagious. These infections can spread from person to person by sexual contact, direct contact and indirect contact by towels. Oral yeast infections become more common with increased age.

Symptoms with which you can identify the infection:

  • Fungus found in skin folds, under women’s breasts, groin, genitals, and around the anal orifice
  • Itchy, purple patches on the skin that resemble eczema
  • Scaling in small degree
  • Blisters around the itchy patches
  • Fungus in the finger nails or toe nails
  • Oral thrush
  • Red, itching eyes
  • Vaginal yeast infection

If you are working in wet conditions, the fungus can change into eczema [eczema treatment]. The fungus can also lead to nail infection, causing nails to crumble away. In immunodeficiency people, the fungus spreads over the entire body creating a serious and dangerous condition.

What is the treatment for candida albicans?

Candida albicans can be mostly treated at home with over the counter drugs or prescription medications. With antifungal drugs, the infection can recur. Therefore, you have to lifestyle changes in order to prevent candida albicans.

How to prevent Candida albicans infection?

  • Wash your skin regularly and dry it carefully. Obese people should be careful to dry all skin folds.
  • Avoid sharing towels
  • Wear clothes that are made of cotton. Cotton clothes allow the skin to breathe and rid off excess moisture. Change clothes regularly.
  • After touching the infected area, wash your hands carefully.