The yeast problem thus occurs at two levels—the localized infections, of which skin rashes and vaginitis are the most common (intestinal overgrowth is also common), and the secondary and more serious systemic reactions. This problem can then produce such symptoms as recurrent skin fungus infections, examples being ringworm, athlete’s foot, "jock itch," or nail problems; headaches; fatigue; cystitis or prostatitis; mental symptoms such as mood swings, poor memory or concentration, depression, or confusion; premenstrual symptoms; recurrent herpes infection; joint pains; cravings for sweets, bread, or alcohol; indigestion or food reactions; and sensitivity to molds, dampness, environmental pollution, cigarettes, and various smells.

This yeast syndrome is much more common in women than in men and seems to affect the hormonal balance, initially causing mild premenstrual symptoms of irritability, depression, fatigue, and swelling, and leading to actually abnormal and/or painful menstrual periods. I would estimate that a significant number of women with PMS have a problem with Candida albicans, and probably more than half the women with candidiasis have some uncomfortable premenstrual symptoms.

Diagnosing polysystemic candidiasis may involve several tests. Most doctors who work with this problem use a questionnaire such as the one provided by Dr. Crook in his book, The Yeast Connection. The scores indicate the likelihood of a yeast problem, and while not exact, this is a pretty accurate tool. Many doctors suggest a trial treatment program merely on the basis of an interview, exam, and questionnaire score, as the response to therapy is often a good indication of the presence of the problem. However, I like to have more objective monitors, so I perform two main tests, both reasonably inexpensive. One is a culture of a stool specimen to quantify the amount of Candida albicans (or other yeast) organisms present. This can then be repeated to measure the effectiveness of the program. Also, a sensitivity test that finds what substances will actually kill the yeast (in the lab, at least) can be done after the organism is isolated. The other test measures the blood levels of three antibodies (IgA, IgM, IgG) to the Candida albicansorganism, performed by Immunodiagnostic Lab in San Leandro, California. If these antibodies are elevated, this suggests that some systemic reaction is occurring in the body (the stool reveals only an intestinal overgrowth), which may be correlated with more widespread symptoms. This test also gives us the opportunity to monitor the body’s status over time to measure treatment response. Reducing yeast organisms in the body and replacing friendly bacteria will usually reduce elevated antibody levels.

Other tests may be helpful in determining coexisting medical problems. A study of the stool for ova and parasites may show these to be more commonly present in yeast carriers than in the average population, as often the same predisposing factors, poor digestion and low stomach acid, are present. Treatment may also be needed to eliminate these parasites. Creating proper colon ecology is a crucial factor in health, disease resistance, and many important body functions. When normal colon bacteria are present in sufficient quantities (which they may not be when other invaders are taking their place), they will actually produce many vitamins using the nutrient fuel provided them. Vitamin K and most of the B complex vitamins—niacin, B12, pantothenic acid, B6, biotin, and folic acid—are among these. Intestinal bacteria also aid final digestion of food, such as proteins and milk. With low colon bacteria counts, poor digestion, and an unhealthy intestinal lining, more food allergies may develop. A blood test measuring specific antibodies to many commonly allergenic foods may be indicated in some people with candidiasis, especially when there is a real problem with food intolerance. Frequently found reactions, indicated by greatly elevated IgG antibody levels, include reactions to both baker’s and brewer’s yeasts, wheat, milk, cheeses, mushrooms, and eggs. Many others are possible, but those are the ones I have found to be most common and most strong.