Candida is a genus of yeasts, which are types of fungi, some of that are normally present in the human digestive system, but others are pathogens that harm the host. Candida itself is not harmful – some candida species are part of the digestive systems normal flora, and are in fact required for the digestive system to function properly. However, candidiasis or thrush, sometimes also known simply as a “yeast infection”, is the infection that is caused by harmful candida species.
These infections sometimes affect the digestive system, but more common infections are those of the mouth or the genitals. When candidiasis affects the mouth, it is usually known as oral thrush, and when it affects the genitals, it is usually known as vaginitis. Internal infections are usually much more dangerous, as the symptoms are not as obvious, and treatment is also much more difficult.
You have not specified which type of candidiasis you are suffering from, so it is not possible to suggest any one course of action except for visiting a doctor.
In any case, it is better to get proper medical treatment for candidiasis than to experiment with home remedies, because home remedies do not always work, and the longer you wait, the more the infection takes hold, making it harder to treat. For example, in the initial stages, a short course of medication will be enough to destroy the harmful yeasts, whereas in the later stages, a stronger, or longer course of medication may be needed, which will end up destroying the good, healthy yeasts and bacteria in the body too. This of course leads to other problems, which is why many people prefer to avoid medical treatment. However, the problem is not the medical treatment itself, but the fact that the infection was not treated early enough.
If you have only recently developed the infection, then you can try to treat it on your own for a couple of days. For vaginal infections, suppositories and medicated douches are available; it is best to avoid a douche unless you have been shown how to perform the procedure by a doctor, but suppositories are safe and can be tried on your own. In addition, you should keep the area clean and dry by washing it thoroughly several times a day, and then drying it thoroughly. For oral thrush, you can try rinsing your mouth with a vinegar solution, and a short while later, eat some yogurt. If these treatments show no signs of working within a couple of days, you should visit your doctor.
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