Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth produces symptoms because of the toxins the organism releases into your body. Everyone's experience is different — not every symptom on this list will apply to you. In most cases, around 20 symptoms tend to be present at the same time.
Common Symptom Categories
Glandular and Organ Function
Candida overgrowth can affect how your glands and organs work, potentially contributing to:
- Adrenal and thyroid gland malfunction
- Hypothyroidism
- Hypoglycemia
- Diabetes mellitus
- Low body temperature
- Cold hands or feet
- Impotence
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Your digestive system is often one of the first places you'll notice signs of Candida overgrowth:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Bloating and gas
- White coating on the tongue (oral thrush)
- Dry mouth
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Intestinal inflammation
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Unexplained weight gain or excessive weight loss
Psychological and Allergic Symptoms
Candida overgrowth can also trigger responses that look like allergies or affect your respiratory system:
- Acne
- Blurred vision
- Recurrent bronchitis
- Burning or tingling sensations
- Chemical sensitivity
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Earaches
- Hay fever
- Headaches
- Hives
- Muscle aches and tension
- Nasal congestion and sinus pressure
- Numbness
- Painful, swollen, or stiff joints
- Shortness of breath
- Sinusitis
- Sore throats
Emotional and Mental Symptoms
Because Candida toxins can affect your nervous system, you may notice changes in your mood, energy, and mental clarity:
- Anxiety or depression
- ADD / ADHD symptoms
- Disorientation or feelings of unreality
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Frequent mood swings
- Hyperactivity
- Inability to concentrate
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Joint and muscle pain
- Low energy and muscle weakness
- Mental confusion and poor memory
- Nervousness
- Tingling and numbness
- Symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis (MS)
Skin Symptoms
Candida overgrowth frequently shows up on the skin in a variety of ways:
- Acne
- Anal itching
- Athlete's foot
- Dandruff
- Dermatitis
- Diaper rash
- Dry skin
- Eczema
- Excessive perspiration
- Facial rash
- Fungal nail infections
- Hives
- Impetigo
- Jock itch
- Lupus
- Psoriasis
Genitourinary Symptoms
Candida overgrowth can affect your urinary and reproductive systems as well:
- Recurrent bladder infections
- Burning with urination
- Cramps
- Cystitis (bladder inflammation)
- Endometriosis or irregular/painful menstruation
- Fluid retention (edema)
- Frequent urination
- Impotency
- Infertility
- Loss of sexual feelings
- Menstrual irregularities
- Painful intercourse
- PMS
- Prostatitis
- Recurrent vaginal yeast infections
- Vaginal burning, itching, or discharge
If you recognize several of these symptoms and want to learn more, reach out to our office. We're here to help you understand what your body may be telling you.