Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida, which are conditionally pathogenic. This fungus is a part of the natural microflora of the mouth, the vagina, the colon, in the usual situation, it does not disturb and does not lead to the disease. But in violation of local immunity, its uncontrolled reproduction begins, which promotes the development of various candidiasis, in particular, candidiasis of the esophagus.
Symptoms of esophageal candidiasis
Compared to other types of disease, esophageal candidiasis is rare, usually in people with weakened general immunity (patients taking antibiotics for a long time, steroids receiving anticancer therapy, etc.). The most common symptoms are:
- difficulty swallowing, which eventually grows;
- painful sensations during swallowing;
- heartburn ;
- pain in the upper abdomen and behind the sternum;
- frequent nausea and vomiting;
- stool disorders.
Since all the symptoms are quite common, and the white coating on the mucous membranes that occurs with candidiasis can also be a symptom of stomatitis, then laboratory tests are necessary to determine the exact diagnosis.
Treatment of esophageal candidiasis
To treat the disease, antifungal drugs are used in tablets or in the form of intravenous injections.
The most commonly used drug for Candidiasis is Fluconazole. It is considered to be a more effective remedy than Ketoconazole, since the absorption of the latter depends on the pH of the gastric juice.
When fluconazole is ineffective (the presence of resistant strains of fungus), it is replaced with Itraconazole, Amphotericinum, Mikafungin or Kaspofungin.
Since the development of candidiasis is often associated with violations of the internal microflora of the body, the use of antifungal drugs is often combined with drugs for the treatment of dysbiosis.
Treatment of esophageal candidiasis with folk remedies
As with any other fungal infection, the candidiasis of the esophagus should not be treated solely by folk remedies. They are exclusively an auxiliary therapy that helps speed up the process and remove the discomfort caused by the disease.
As such, a variety of herbal preparations are recommended. For example, a mixture of juniper berries, leaves of medicinal sage and eucalyptus, chamomile and calendula flowers, yarrow herb and birch buds, taken in equal parts. A tablespoon of the collection is poured into a glass of water, boiled for 10 minutes in a water bath, after which it is insisted for 45 minutes. Take infusion of 1/3 cup three times a day after meals.
Diet for candidiasis of the esophagus
Since the fungus actively multiplies in a medium containing sugar, it should be excluded from the diet. In addition, it is recommended that:
- products containing yeast;
- fresh fruit high in sugar (grapes, bananas, pears);
- some dried fruits (dates, figs, raisins, dried apricots);
- honey;
- sweet fizzy drinks;
- spicy food.
It is recommended to use:
- dairy products without additives and dyes;
- pickled vegetables;
- oatmeal (especially oat bran);
- garlic;
- olive oil.
Also beneficial is the tea fungus .