Candidemia

What Is Candidemia?

Candidemia is a type of bloodstream infection that occurs when a person has a large number of yeast cells present in the blood. It is caused by a type of fungus called Candida, which is normally found on the skin, mucous membranes, and in the digestive tract. Candidemia can lead to severe illness and can sometimes even be fatal. It is important to recognize the early signs and take appropriate action to treat the infection as soon as possible.

Causes of Candidemia

Candidemia is caused by the presence of Candida albicans, a type of yeast, in the bloodstream. This can happen when a person has a weakened immune system due to illness or medications, such as antibiotics. Other conditions that can lead to Candidemia include indwelling catheters, chemotherapy, organ transplantation, and diabetes.

Symptoms of Candidemia

The symptoms of Candidemia can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain and upset stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Headaches

Diagnosis of Candidemia

Candidemia can be difficult to diagnose because many of the common signs and symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. Your doctor will usually need a blood test to check for the presence of Candida in your bloodstream.

Treatment of Candidemia

Treatment of Candidemia usually consists of antifungal medications. The type of medication and the length of treatment will depend on your individual situation. Your doctor may also recommend surgery if the infection has spread to other parts of the body.

Prevention of Candidemia

There are several steps you can take to help reduce the risk of developing Candidemia. These include:

• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands often and avoiding contact with people who are sick.
• Treating any infection promptly and following your doctor’s instructions.
• Eating a balanced diet and avoiding foods high in sugar or simple carbohydrates.
• Avoiding prolonged use of antibiotics and other medications that can weaken the immune system.
• Keeping your diabetes and other chronic conditions under control.