Candida glabrata (or C. glabrata) is a yeast that belongs to Candida family. It was earlier called Torulopsis glabrata or Cryptococcus glabratus and only in 1980s was it named Candida glabrata and was included as a member of the Candida family.

Like other Candida species, C. glabrata is also a part of our normal microflora – it is therefore present in healthy people. It normally lives in human intestines without causing any harm. It is considered to be an opportunistic pathogen – an organism that is normally harmless, but causes disease when it gets an opportunity! This opportunity usually comes when the immunity of the host is somehow compromised.

In the last three decades, infections due to C. glabrata have increased – this was reported by Diekema and colleagues from USA in 2012.  C. glabrata is described as currently ranking second in causing Candida infections.

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DNA studies done in 1998 on C. glabrata by Kurtzman and Robnett from USA showed that it was more closely related to the baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) than to Candida albicans.  However, unlike baker’s yeast, it is more evolved and can live in- and cause infection in humans – Vale-Silva and Sanglard describe this in their 2015 review article.  They describe how the special molecules on its surface called adhesins allow it to adhere to our cells, how it can survive our immune system and can replicate within our macrophages (type of white blood cells that engulf and digest foreign substances, microbes, etc.), and how it is also able to survive by restricting environmental stresses in various ways within the body. They also provide evidence that although Candida albicans ranks first in causing candida infections, C. glabrata is more resistant to treatment with antifungal agents. It is also found that this organism develops resistance to antifungal agents much more easily. It is likely that extensive use of antifungal therapy has led to the evolution of resistance to antifungals in C. glabrata, and consequently an increase in infections caused by it.

Drug-resistance by reorganizing chromosomes!

We know that most organisms gain drug resistance through mutations – as the mutant survives better, it proliferates. However, the way that Candida glabrata accumulates drug resistance is quite different. In 2009, an interesting report from the Swedish lab of Piskur described how, instead of just changing its DNA through mutation, this yeast can reorganize its chromosomes and make extra copies of large chromosome pieces to adapt and become more resistant to antifungal medicines. So, essentially what happens is that if there is high amount of a certain drug in the environment (here the human body), C. glabrata increases the number of drug resistance genes by duplicating the chromosomes. The reverse is also true – when there is less amount of a certain drug, the extra copies of chromosome that give resistance against this drug are lost.

Of course, there are also a few mutations like the MSH2 and the FKS1/2 mutation that are suspected to make C. glabrata more resistant to antifungals.

Infections caused by C. glabrata

In the recent times, C. glabrata has emerged as an important hospital-acquired (nosocomial) pathogen. This means that people who are admitted to the hospital are at a higher risk for getting C. glabrata infections. Apart from this, there is also a rise in the number of non-nosocomial vulvovaginal infections (complicated vulvovaginal candidiasis and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis) caused by this organism due to the overuse of antifungal antibiotics.

Let us look at the different kinds of infection it has been found to cause.

C. glabrata can cause infection of the mucosa (inner lining of mouth, esophagus, vagina, or urinary tract) as well as severe, life-threatening invasive candidiasis (spreading throughout the body and infecting different organs in the body). It can cause these infections either on its own or cause mixed infections along with other Candida species like C. albicans and C. tropicalis.

According to research by Farmakotis and colleagues from USA, published in 2014 by CDC, C. glabrata can often cause blood stream infections in cancer patients due to presence of in-dwelling catheters, abdominal surgery, use of chemotherapy, intravenous feeding, antibacterial drugs, and corticosteroids. Choi and colleagues from S. Korea reported with their 2009 study on a single hospital that blood stream infections with this organism were also a high risk in hospitalized patients who had poor kidney function (renal insufficiency) or who had prior treatments with fluconazaole.

Yu and Zeng from China described in their 2016 article how C. glabrata can also cause fungal infection of the lung after kidney transplantation, although C. albicans is the most common culprit in these cases.

C. glabrata can not only cause infection in adults with low immunity, but also in newborns who are born prematurely and do not have a fully formed immune system. A study from 2016 by Benjamin and coworkers from Matinique reported that preterm newborns, who weighed less than 1.5kg and were admitted to the intensive care unit for newborns, were also at a risk of getting hospital acquired fungal infections. Of these, 5% infections were caused by C. glabrata. The newborns who got intravenous feeding or antifungal agents were more likely to get infected.

In rare cases, this yeast can cause recurrent arthritis as was found in a 40-year-old man by Erami and colleagues from Iran in 2014. They were only able to diagnose this by testing the knee fluid using specialized fungal detection systems. Treatment of C. glabrata treated the recurrent arthritis as well.

Routes of entering the host tissues

That C. glabrata is so good at sticking by the virtue of the adhesion molecules, makes it especially good at making biofilms on surfaces of medical equipment and devices like catheters. This is one way that it can enter our tissues – through medical equipment and devices.

It must be noted that, unlike other Candida species, C. glabrata does not form the invasive hyphal (filamentous) structures that hold on to and invade the epithelial tissues. It is not surprising, therefore, that the damage caused to the epithelial tissues is much less than that caused by Candida albicans. Instead it makes use of adhesion molecules to bind to our cells. It also manages to enter the cells and cross the epithelial barrier without destroying the epithelial cells as has been evidenced from animal and cell studies (reviewed by Vale-Silva and Sanglard in their review article). How it performs this feat is yet unknown.

Additionally, studies in mice have found that C. glabrata can stay in the system without causing a huge immune response or causing severe disease. This was described in a 2010 report by Jacobsen and colleagues from Germany, France and Austria working in collaboration. Thus, this organism seems to be a stealthy attacker – it can lurk around in the body until the conditions are most suitable for it to strike and cause disease.

C. glabrata is commonly found along with C. albicans in oropharyngeal candidiasis. A 2016 article from the Edgerton lab in USA reported their studies on mice where they found that C. glabrata is unable to infect the oral cavity by itself. But when C. albicans is present, it can colonize well. Their experiments revealed that C. glabrata bound to the fibrous hyphae of C. albicans and piggy-backed on these hyphae to establish infection.

Causes

The causes for C. glabrata infections are the same as those for C. albicans infection. However, except for vulvovaginal infections, most other C. glabrata infections are hospital acquired. The leading causes of this infection are:

• Dysbiosis: Frequent use of antibiotics and consequent disturbance of normal flora leads to establishment of glabrata infections.
• Frequent use of antifungals: Due to its special ability to quickly become resistant to the antifungal in the environment, frequent use of antifungals makes it easier for this organism to gain hold in the body.
• Lowered immunity: There is a basic need for reduced immunity for C. glabrata to establish infection. So, any reason that leads to reduced immunity like HIV infection, diabetes, immunosuppression due to cancer therapy, treatment with immunosuppressant drugs for organ/tissue transplant, corticosteroid treatment etc. Naturally lowered immunity as in the case of old people or premature infants could also make them susceptible to these infections.
• Barrier disruption: Mechanical injury due to surgery, catheterization, intravenous feeding, injury during sex etc. can lead to this organism getting easy entry into the tissues.
• Biofilms on hospital equipment or on dentures are a common cause of C. glabrata infections. Biofilms are especially difficult to remove. Catheters are in general susceptible to colonization on the inside because of repeated manipulation of catheters and repeated infusions. Microbes, including Candida glabrata can form biofilms on the surface and the insides of the catheters. Although catheters are coated with antimicrobial coatings, as Raad and colleagues from USA showed with their work (published in 2008), the effect of these is only limited to a few weeks. Catheters are therefore a very big factor for biofilm related infections of C. glabrata.
• Contraceptive usage: By increasing estrogen (oral contraceptive pills) or through biofilms (IUCD- intrauterine contraceptive device), or other mechanisms, C. glabrata can cause vulvovaginal infections. Significantly more C. glabrata vulvovaginal infections have been found, by a study from Turkey, in women using any form of contraception in comparison to those not using any contraception at all.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to infections with this organism. Multiple factors like presence of glucose in urine, reduced immunity, previous exposure to antifungals and antibiotics, etc. could make a diabetic more prone to glabrata infections. A study from India by Goswami and colleagues showed in 2000 that C. glabrata apart from C. tropicalis predominantly cause vulvovaginal infections in diabetics.
• Pregnancy: Due to changes in hormones and vaginal acidity during pregnancy, a woman can get vulvovaginal infections caused by Candida species. A study by Babic and Hukic from Bosnia and Herzegovina found that 4.2% of those with VVC were infected with C. glabrata species. A study by Babic and Hukic from Bosnia and Herzegovina found that 4.2% of those with VVC were infected with C. glabrata.
• Hospitalization: Admission to ICU or being subject to medical procedures can cause these infections through hospital equipment or through hand carriage by hospital personnel.

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of the infection will depend on the area or organ that is affected.

Generally, the signs and symptoms for C. glabrata infections will be the same as those for C. albicans. The severity of the signs may be less than those of C. albicans though. Here are some of the slight differences that have been observed in the signs and symptoms between these two species of Candida:

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC)

Many women with a C. glabrata infection do not have any symptoms. According to a 2004 study by the lab of Brazilian scientist Svidzinski, nearly 54% of the women with C. glabrata showed no symptoms.

Geiger and colleagues found, in 1995, that there are small differences in the VVC signs and symptoms due to C. glabrata as compared to C. albicans. They studied 80 patients and found the following differences:

• Abnormal discharge is less frequent
• Burning sensation in contrast to itching
• Caseous discharge is rare
• Many-a-times, C. glabrata vaginitis coexists with bacterial vaginitis due to its preference for higher pH of vagina (towards the upper limit of the normal pH).
• Lower numbers of those with C. glabrata infection reported painful sexual intercourse when compare to those with C. albicans infection. This is likely due to lesser inflammation caused by C. glabrata.

Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC)

C. glabrata very rarely causes OPC on its own – it mostly causes infection along with C. albicans. The signs and symptoms are therefore the signs and symptoms of oropharyngeal candidiasis caused by C. albicans.

Urinary tract infections

C. glabrata causes over 20% of the candida infections of the urinary tract. Quite often, it occurs as mixed infection along with C. albicans or other bacterial pathogens. The signs and symptoms are identical to those caused by other Candida species. As described by Fidel and colleagues in their 1999 review, most of the patients are asymptomatic. In patients who are catheterized, lower urinary tract symptoms may rarely appear. It is quite rare that the infection ascends to the kidneys, but may occur in patients with stents and when there is obstruction.

The symptoms may include urinary dysuria (painful urination), frequent and urgent urination, and pelvic discomfort (pain in the lower abdomen). The urine could be dark, cloudy, or strong smelling.  Feeling generally unwell and tired is common. These could be symptoms of cystitis – bladder infection by either Candida glabrata and/or Candida albicans. Microscopic examination of urine and urine culture shows presence of Candida.

Systemic infections

There are no characteristic signs and symptoms of systemic infections by C. glabrata. The only sign is persistent fever and no response to antimicrobial drugs. 

Risk Factors

As mentioned earlier, C. glabrata is a hospital acquired pathogen. So, hospitalization seems to be one of the biggest risk factors for getting infected by this organism. Apart from this, reduced immunity due to pre-existing infections like HIV, or conditions like cancer or diabetes that reduce the patient’s immunity can put them at higher risk of getting these infections.

Antinori and colleagues from Italy did an extensive review of existing literature on invasive Candida infections. They published their findings in 2016, and according to them, the risk factors for invasive infection with C. glabrata are:

• Patients located in Europe or USA
• Patients with diabetes
• Cancer patients
• Blood cancer or stem cell recipients
• Previous treatment with azole class of antifungal drugs
• Older age

As described earlier, the study by Benjamin and coworkers has also showed that being born prematurely and being admitted in the ICU for newborns could also be a risk factor for getting C. glabrata infections.

A study by several labs in USA showed in 2016 that C. glabrata was involved in almost 25% of invasive Candida infections in patients who received organ transplants second to C. albicans which was the culprit in 46% of the cases.Wearing dentures: glabrata binds more strongly to the denture

A 2015 review of literature by the Israeli scientists Herman and coworkers found that if there is chorioamnionitis (inflammation of fetal membranes – the amnion and the chorion) after in vitro fertilization, most of the times it was caused by Candida glabrata. Thus, undergoing IVF procedure is a risk factor.

For oral infections with Candida glabrata, Redding and Dongari-Bagtzoglou from USA described the following risk factors (2007):

• Wearing dentures: C. glabrata binds more strongly to the dentures compared to C. albicans
• Immunosuppression
• Previous antibiotic therapy
• Ageing

For vaginal infections with C. glabrata, the risk factors are listed in 1999 as the following by Fidel and colleagues from USA:

• Older patients
• Underlying medical conditions like diabetes
• Douching

A study by Ehrstrom and coworkers showed in 2007 that there is a significant correlation between chronic stress in women and recurrent candida infections.

Unprotected sex with uncircumcised men is considered a risk for getting Candida infections in general. However, a study by Aridogan and colleagues from Turkey showed that C. glabrata colonized the glans penis of about 8% uncircumcised men. It is possible that unprotected receptive sexual contact with even a circumcised man could put a susceptible partner at risk for contracting this infection.

The only risk factor specific for C. glabrata infection of the urinary tract is Fluconazole use, as per an article from 2007 by Lagrotteria and colleagues from Canada. Other risk factors for presence of C. glabrata in urine (candiduria) are like those for C. albicans – Diabetes, indwelling bladder catheter, use of antibiotics and female gender.

Diagnosis/Tests

Physical examination is not very useful in differentiating C. glabrata infections from C. albicans as the signs and symptoms are not very clearly different – although those with C. glabrata infections are likely to have fewer and less severe symptoms. According to Geiger and colleagues (1995) KOH microscopy is also unable to sufficiently distinguish C. glabrata from C. albicans and may result in misdiagnosis.

Biochemical and advanced tests

Considering that C. glabrata infections need immediate attention (especially in case of invasive infections), it becomes imperative that the diagnosis is quick and reliable. Reliability is essential since it is not simple and straightforward to distinguish C. glabrata from C. albicans. It is also important that the sensitivity or resistance to different antifungals be tested reliably so that proper decision on the treatment regime.

A specialized technique called matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is increasingly being used for quick diagnosis as a supplement to the microscopic and biochemical methods. Although automated, computerized instruments like VITEK-2 that detect organisms based on their growth and biochemical characteristics are good at distinguishing C. glabrata, a study by Andersen and coworkers from Norway found that MALDI-TOF MS gave more definitive identification of the organism.

So what is done for a MALDI-TOF MS? Blood samples are collected from a patient suspected of invasive candida infection. First, one of the following two things are then done:

1. The sample undergoes a blood culture where blood is injected into bottles with growth medium to find if microorganisms are present in the patient’s blood
2. The blood culture then undergoes a plate culture where the organisms are separated into colonies on an agar plate meant for fungi.

A sample from the blood culture or plate culture is then used to test on the MALDI_TOF MS instrument to check for presence of any of the Candida species.

Pulcrano and colleagues from Italy found in 2013 that the detection of C. glabrata was more accurate when plate cultures were used. In cases where the results are not definite, a molecular diagnosis technique called RT-PCR is used to confirm the identity of the microbe by checking out its DNA.

Finally, a new US-FDA approved qualitative diagnostic platform for Candida glabrata detection is the T2Candida panel that utilizes the technique of magnetic resonance combined with molecular diagnostic. Whole blood sample is used for the test. This test can detect five different species of Candida including C. glabrata. This technique does not need blood culture and is therefore faster than the other methods and can give the results within 3 to 5 hours.

Antimicrobial susceptibility test

Once the organism has been found to be causing infection, tests are done to find out what antibiotics is the organism susceptible to. Most modern laboratories use automated antibiotic susceptibility testing instruments. These are efficient and fast. Vitek 2, Sensititre YeastOne, Etest, and Fungitest are some of the commercial techniques that are used by different laboratories.

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Treatment

As described earlier, C. glabrata is resistant to common antifungal agents and is also adapt at quickly gaining resistance to new antibiotics when it comes across them. Mostly resistant to azoles, it is more susceptible to echinocandins although reports of finding it resistant to echinocandins have also started coming up. However, a study on patients in France, done by Delliere and coworkers published in December 2016, showed that the rates of echinocandin resistance was low and resistance to this drug only occurred when the patient had a prior exposure to it. Another 2016 review on this organism, by Glockner and Cornely from Germany, describes its resistance to azole and echinocandin antifungal agents. Accordingly, following is the order of activity of various antibiotics against C. glabrata (highest to lowest):

Micafungin>Caspofungin>Anidulafungin>Voriconazole>Poscanazole>Fluconazole

(The -fungins are echinocandins and the rest are azoles)

There are several different new antifungals with improved activity being tested for their efficacy in treating invasive candida infections (including those by C. glabrata) – which of these will finally be approved for clinical use remains to be seen.

The treatment of infection by this organism will depend upon the type and location of the infection. Let us look at the current knowledge on treatment of different infections caused by C. glabrata:

Invasive infections

Due to resistance of C. glabrata to azoles, echinocandins like micafungin and caspofungin are the first-line drugs of choice for treatment of bloodstream infections and other systemic infections.

Health care providers should be aware that although the echinocandin micafungin seems to be more effective in laboratory tests in comparison with caspofungin, the effects may be different in the body. Yamada and colleagues from Japan found in 2016 that if micafungin does not work against the infection, it could be worthwhile trying caspofungin instead as these two drugs, despite being echinocandins, work slightly differently.

In cases, like the one reported by Grosset and colleagues from France in 2016, where the patient is resistant to both the echinocandins, a switch to amphotericin B or a combination of two antifungals may be required.

It is important that the treatment for invasive candida infections be started well ahead in time. If there are catheters involved, the physician should consider removing them. However,  if not possible due to the condition of the patient, antifungals should immediately be started. In 2015, Farmakotis and colleagues have showed that early start of treatment of blood stream infection by C. glabrata in cancer patients resulted in higher survival rates.

VVC

According to the guidelines published by Mendling and colleagues from Germany in 2015, mucocutaneous infections by C. glabrata will generally be resistant to high-dose fluconazole. There is, therefore, a suggestion to use oral posaconazole and echinocandins such as micafungin – however, echinocandins are rather expensive and not approved for vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Vaginal boric acid has been found to cure up to 70% of C. glabrata infections as per research by Sobel and colleagues from USA, published in 2007. However, some countries like Germany do not allow the use of boric acid. Hence, these countries need an alternative to boric acid. A 2005 study by Phillips from USA showed that amphotericin B suppositories are also effective in 70% C. glabrata vulvovaginal infections that are resistant to azole drugs. As stated by this article, topical flucytosine cream by itself or in combination with Amphotericin B has also been found to work, although flucytosine is considerably more expensive.

There are lab studies like the one by Chew and colleagues from Malaysia that suggest that some strains of lactobacilli may be able to prevent biofilm formation by C. glabrata. However, these studies need to be clinically tested to find out if these results can be reproduced and whether they would be feasible in treatment of RVVC or for prevention of biofilms on medical instruments.

Prevention

CDC states that everyone has a role in preventing Candida infections and reducing resistance to antifungal agents. Not only is CDC tracking trends in antifungal resistance on candida isolated from blood stream infections, it is also studying how antifungal resistance evolves in Candida. Apart from this, CDC suggests the following:

• Hospital executives and infection control staff should assess their antifungal use. They should ensure that the guidelines for hand hygiene, prevention of catheter and environment associated infections are strictly followed.
• Doctors and other hospital staff should be very careful about prescription of antifungals and prescribe them properly. Each prescription should be thoroughly documented as to the dose, duration, and why the antifungal was prescribed. They should continuously be aware of which antifungals are not effective in the local area. They should ascertain that hand hygiene and other infection control measures are followed for each patient.
• The patients should make sure that everyone entering their room cleans their hands before entering. CDC also gives advice on hand hygiene, how to make sure that your own hands are clean and how to speak up for clean hands. CDC also states that if the patient has indwelling catheter, they should make sure that they do not have the catheter for longer than is needed and ask the doctor about it.

More specifically, Ozer and colleagues from Turkey suggested in their 2013 article that C. glabrata chorioamnionitis after in-vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures could be due to the transfer of this organism from the vagina or the cervix when the procedure is done. They suggest that this may be prevented by taking vaginal and cervical swabs before the IVF procedures and treating any vaginal infection and making sure that there are no C. glabrata remaining in the area before IVF is carried out.

As to catheters, it is important that these are treated properly prior to usage in a patient. When a catheter is not being used, it is said to be “locked”. There are solutions that are usually filled in the catheters when they are locked – these solutions are called “lock solutions”. Modern lock solutions work as antimicrobials and better functioning lock solutions are being invented to prevent different types of biofilms formed by different microbes. Reitzel and colleagues from USA have recently optimized a previously reported lock solution containing Nitroglycerin-Citrate-Ethanol and have found that it is very active also against C. glabrata biofilms. However, this still needs to be tested clinically. Hospitals should continuously check for newer and better lock solutions and use them.

As to the vulvovaginal and oral infections caused by this organism, it may be useful to avoid chronic stress and improve your immunity especially in case you already have a C. albicans infection. Avoiding sex with an infected person may prevent you from getting vaginal or oral infection (in case of receptive oral sex).

In general, protected sex is recommended as even a person who carries the yeast without having an infection could cause infection in a susceptible person.

FAQ

• Is it a fungus?

Yes, it is.

• How common is it?

It is the second most common yeast pathogen in humans.

• Where does Candida glabrata come from?

Although it was first discovered on grapes, it is a part of our natural normal flora. It generally exists inside our gastrointestinal system, genitalia and skin without causing any disease. Antibiotic resistant Candida glabrata may be present in hospital environments, on surfaces and equipment in the hospitals and on hands of hospital personale.

• Is it contagious?

Yes, it can be transmitted through direct contact with people. Although this would not affect people with good immunity, it can cause infection in those with poor immunity, underlying medical conditions, and hospitalization.

• Is it sexually transmitted?

Vulvovaginal and oral candidiasis due to this organism can be sexually transmitted.

• Is it sensitive to fluconazole?

No, it is mostly resistant.

• Is this dangerous?

It depends upon the underlying conditions and immune status of the patient. Invasive infections caused by C. glabrata can be especially dangerous for immunocompromised patients. Infections of the blood-stream or different organs can cause further complications in the treatment of the medical condition for which they have been hospitalized. Vulvovaginal infections by this microbe can lead to inflammation of fetal membranes (chorioamnionitis) after IVF (in-vitro fertilization) procedures. This is dangerous for the fetus and there is high risk of stillbirth or death of the newborn.

• Can this kill you?

People who get invasive C. glabrata infections are generally already sick with another medical condition, so it is difficult to say whether it is only this infection that kills the patient or it is a combination of this infection and the original medical condition. However, it can be said that the infection can complicate the treatment of the original condition. In case of chorioamnionitis, it is very likely that the fetus is stillborn or the newborn dies soon after birth.

• Can it cause miscarriage?

Yes, it can – especially in the case where in-vitro fertilization or cervical-stich is used.

• Can stress cause it?

Stress is generally not directly implicated in C. glabrata infections. However, stress does lower your immunity and ability to fight infections – it is possible that stress could be a factor in change of a vulvovaginal infection to a recurrent type that is caused by this organism. In this regard, some evidence has been provided in a study by Ehrstorm and colleagues from Sweden in 2007.

• Can it be cured?

Whether the infection by this microbe can be cured depends on the site of infection, the immune status of the patient and how soon the treatment was started. Seventy percent of the vaginal infections have been found to be cured using boric acid suppositories. Invasive infections are much more difficult to treat, but chances of treating it are higher if the treatment is started early enough given that the patient is not terribly immunocompromised.

• What is fungemia?

It is a blood-stream infection caused by C. glabrata.

• What is the best treatment?

The treatment would depend on the site of infection. For vulvovaginal infections, boric acid suppositories or in cases where boric acid is not permitted, amphotericin B suppositories are good treatment. For systemic infections, the treatment will depend on the antibiotic sensitivity profile of the C. glabrata infecting the patient. Quick diagnosis and antibiotic sensitivity tests are very important in these cases.

Candida auris (or C. auris) is a yeast belonging to Candida family that was discovered relatively recently. In 2009, Satoh and colleagues from Japan found this yeast from the ear discharge of a 70-year-old Japanese woman. Auris is Latin for ear – this yeast was thus named Candida auris.

Although its name links the organism with ear infections, it can also cause other infections.

Kumar and colleagues from India published a case-report in 2015, where they found C. auris to be the cause of vulvovaginitis. C. auris can enter wounds and bloodstream and cause very serious infections in some hospitalized patients by spreading throughout the body. Per CDC, C. auris has also been found in respiratory and urine samples, but whether it causes infection in the lung or bladder is not clear yet CDC also reports that 60% of the patients with C. auris infections have died – this is based on information from a limited number of patients.

In an interview with Washington post, CDC’s top fungal expert Tom Chiller said that the problem of this infection is compounded by the fact that C. auris is potentially resistant to “one or two, if not all three” main classes of antifungal drugs. It is therefore potentially very difficult to treat – C. auris is the new superbug!

After Japan, infections with C. auris were reported between 2011 and 2016 from many other countries like Colombia, India, Israel, Kenya, Kuwait, Pakistan, South Africa, South Korea, Venezuela, and the UK. Between 2013 and 2016, seven cases of C. auris infection in the USA were reported to CDC. Most of these patients were infected with C. auris that was resistant to some drugs but luckily not to all the three classes of antifungal drugs. In  September 2016, Schelenz and colleagues reported the first hospital outbreak of C. auris in a London cardio-thoracic center – 50 cases of this infection were reported at this hospital.

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In June 2016, CDC issued a clinical alert about how C. auris is an emerging global threat to the health of susceptible, hospitalized patients and requested laboratories to report C. auris cases. In the alert, CDC mentioned that because identification of this pathogen required specialized laboratory methods, it is possible that the infection occurred in other countries as well but was not identified or reported. According to a 2015 report by Kathuria and colleagues from India, commercial identification systems may wrongly identify  90% C. auris as C. hemulonii which is a different but related organism. Wrong identification leads to wrong treatment.  Delay in proper treatment can lead to increased risk of death as has been reported by Morales-Lopez and colleagues from Colombia in a report published in 2017.

It seems possible that C. auris infection has existed prior to its first identification in Japan but could not be distinguished as a different infection. However, a 2016 study carried out in India by Sharma and colleagues speculates that this organism has possibly only emerged recently, as the C. auris found in four different hospitals were closely related – meaning that it has not had enough time to evolve. Lockhart and colleagues collaborating across different affected countries around the world confirmed that C. auris has emerged only after 2009 – they checked with an ongoing international antifungal surveillance program called SENTRY (JMI Laboratories) which contains 15271 samples of candida isolated globally since 2004 from invasive candida infections. All 15271 samples were tested for Candida auris using reliable diagnostic methods. Only 4 samples were found to be C. auris, and even these samples were only from years 2009, 2013, 2014 and 2015 respectively.

A 2016 report by Lockhart and other experts from around the world showed that there has been simultaneous, and recent, independent emergence of multidrug-resistant Candida auris on three continents of Asia, Africa, and America.

Causes

As far as it is known now, Candida auris infections are nosocomial – meaning that they are acquired in hospital settings. This organism can be present on surfaces or equipment in a hospital and may be transmitted to the patients who come in contact with these. It can also be present on the hands of people and can be transmitted from person to person. The exact way the organism is transmitted is not yet clear. However, all the patients infected with C. auris to date have had some serious underlying condition that reduced their immunity and increased their susceptibility to this infection. For example, the international collaboration by Lockhart and colleagues (2017) that studied this infection in 54 patients from various locations, found that 41% had diabetes mellitus, 51% recently had surgery, 78% had a central venous catheter, and 41% were getting systemic antifungal therapy at the time C. auris was isolated.

Because of drug resistance of C. auris, the infection is difficult to treat. In a recent review article, Chowdhary, Voss and Meis from India and Netherlands suggest that indiscriminate use of antifungal drugs could be the reason C. auris has emerged as a successful Multiple Drug Resistant pathogen.

Symptoms

People with good immune system may carry C. auris but, in this case, they will not show any signs and symptoms of C. auris infection. C. auris only becomes pathogenic (disease causing) in people with a poor or compromised immune system, and such people will then show signs and symptoms of this infection.

Candida auris infection may lead to the following symptoms:

• Ear infection leading to hearing loss
• Wound infections after surgery
• Bloodstream infections (candidemia)
• Rarely, Pericarditis (inflammation of the pericardium – the membrane enclosing the heart) in patients with recent cardiothoracic surgery. Leading to hearing loss
• Vulvovaginitis

Risk Factors

According to a study published by Chowdhary and colleagues from India in 2013, the risk-factors for C. auris infection are the same as those of any other invasive candida:

• Immunosuppressive conditions
• Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Indwelling catheters (medical tubes that are inserted into the body temporarily or permanently)

CDC lists additional risk factors for contracting C. auris infection:

• Previous exposure to antifungal agents
• Patients who have been in the intensive care unit for a long time
• Patients who have had recent surgery
• Patients with diabetes (poor immunity due to diabetes)

A research article by Morales-Lopez and colleagues from Colombia, published in 2017, describes other risk factors:

• Being under mechanical ventilation (mechanically assisted breathing)
• Getting blood cell transfusion
• Being on parenteral nutrition (Special liquid nutrition given into the blood via an intravenous catheters)
• Undergoing hemodialysis
• Having pancreatitis (inflammation of pancreas)
• Having cancer
• Having HIV infection

It is important to note that studies on risk factors and transmission of this organism are currently ongoing and thus this list may not yet be complete.

Tests and Diagnosis

For diagnosis of infection with C. auris, samples are taken from blood or other body fluids of patients to perform fungal culture and tests.  However, as mentioned earlier, it is not very straightforward to diagnose an infection by Candida auris. Normal biochemical tests that can detect and differentiate between other candida infections cannot do so with C. auris. Specialized tests are therefore needed for its detection.

CDC recommends specialized diagnostic devices to be used by laboratories. These devices are called Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) devices. However, a 2016 study by Kim and colleagues from South Korea showed clearly that C. auris was misdiagnosed by automated microbiology system (BD Phoenix) and two MALDI-TOF instruments (Vitek MS and Bruker Biotyper).  CDC also warns that not all such devices can detect C. auris as they do not include C. auris in the reference database. Wattal and colleagues from India mentioned in their December 2016 article that, like they did, upgrading the reference databases to include local strains of C. auris for these devices is required.

A more reliable method for diagnosis of C. auris is a special Molecular method that performs DNA sequencing of a specific region of DNA (28s rDNA). This region is different between different candida species and therefore an accurate diagnosis can be made. However, this is an advanced technique and not all diagnostic labs are equipped for it.

If laboratories are not able to perform these tests due to lack of technology, they can send the specimens to CDC for further diagnosis.

After detection of C. auris, tests are done to find which antibiotic will work against the specific C. auris from the patient. These tests are done using specialized tests like CLSI broth microdilution (CLSI-BMD), Vitek 2 antifungal susceptibility test, and the Etest method. These methods were, for example, also used by Kathuria and colleagues from India in their 2015 study.

Treatment

C. auris is potentially resistant to one or two, if not all three main classes of antifungal drugs – Azoles, Amphotericin B and Echinocandins. Fluconazole is the first-line antifungal treatment, but most of C. auris strains seem to be resistant to it. Different strains seem to have different susceptibility to other antifungals. As per CDC, Echinocandins are the only class of drug that most of the C. auris strain can still be treated with. If the organism is resistant to all three kinds of antifungals, the infection becomes more difficult to treat and a high dose mix of the different classes of drugs may be needed to fight it.

Apart from sensitivity to the antifungal agent, the treatment depends on the location of infection (whether it is wound, ear, or invasive infection), the immune status of the patient and the risk factors for that patient.

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Prevention

Prevention of infection is primarily a case for the hospitals. It is important that any infection by C. auris is quickly recognized, accurately diagnosed, and treated. They also need to make sure that the medical devices, hospital surfaces, and staff do not carry this organism around. CDC, PHE (Public Health England), ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control), NICD (National Institute for Communicable Diseases, South Africa), PAHO/WHO (Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization) have issued statements for hospitals regarding prevention measures against the spread of C. auris.

However, it is not only the responsibility of the hospitals to contribute to prevention of spread of this new threat. As patients, caretakers, or visitors to hospitals, we need to do our bit and make sure that we know about and maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness. A small action like taking a shower before going to the hospital to visit a patient, being strict about washing the hands properly when reaching the hospital, staying away from things that are microbe bombs – like phones, tablets, cash money – or washing hands immediately after touching these may prevent infection with C. auris in hospitalized patients.

Feeling disconnected from yourself and the world is not a desirable situation, and can cause anxiety in individuals who feel out of control with their health. Amber is 37 years old and often feels as though she’s in a dream when awake and going through her day.

She is often dizzy, can’t remember what she did that day, feels as though she blanks out into nothingness for several minutes, and can’t focus on much in life. Even trying to watch a movie is difficult for her as she feels like a true couch potato in that she can’t easily recall what she saw.

Amber has two cats, and notices that she’s forgotten to feed them in the morning when she gets ready for work at 5am which begins with an hour commute to her job. She’s going to school online, but has had to drop down to one class per semester because she’s worried about her health.

She lives on her own but has many supportive friends who have tried to help her through promoting supplements and diets. Nothing she’s tried has worked, and her doctors don’t listen to her or tell her that she’s only tired (she also mentioned that she sleeps a lot over the weekends and tries to get at least 7 hours on weeknights).

One of Amber’s best friends learned about candida, and Amber wants to know more before she tries yet another diet. She’s weary of candida because of how much she’s read online about yeast infections that confuse her and makes her think everyone should have an overgrowth. While we suggest Amber to take the candida yeast quiz on our website to start with, we will discuss the issue in detail below.

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Anxiety and Depression

Even if medical tests come back normal and your body seems fine, stress, anxiety, and depression can have severe effects on wellbeing. People may not always recognize when anxiety is present, as it may not be apparent.

Bowel movements, adrenals, and other bodily functions may seem to work properly when under emotional duress, however prolonged anxiety, stress, and depression can still affect brain health.

These problems can also cause ongoing inflammation: when the immune system overreacts. This adds stress on the body, and inflammation may create brain fog, dizziness, distance from oneself, and other head-related symptoms.

If an inconsistent work and sleep schedule is present but emotional concerns don’t seem obvious, check into sleep patterns. Not having natural patterns of sleep, even if sleeping, can affect how the brain functions throughout the day and how alert and cognitive you are.

Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion

No matter how much sleep one gets, if the natural patterns of sleep are disrupted or do not occur, exhaustion can set in as the brain works harder during waking hours. Sleep determines how well the brain is able to communicate with the body, register information about the environment, and affects mood and focus. Digestion, vision, and cognitive ability are also affected by how much or little healthy sleep patterns one gets.

A healthy night of sleep begins with NREM (non-rapid eye movement), and transitions to REM (rapid eye movement). NREM has different stages that lead the body into deeper sleep, and the brain becomes less responsive to the external environment. Those who are difficult to wake up, or heavy sleepers, are thought to be in the REM stages of sleep, while light sleepers who are easily awoken stay in the earlier phases of NREM.

REM is believed to be the stage when dreams occur, and may create a sort of paralysis in the body. Some people have sleep paralysis when trying to sleep: they can’t move their body or speak as though in the REM phase, but they are still cognitive. This can cause anxiety, but is rare in individuals.

Even if dreams are not remembered in detail, having some recollection signifies that REM was achieved. Both REM and NREM should alternate in cycles throughout the night.

While most western culture promotes 7-8 hours of sleep in one block, many other cultures take afternoon naps as the internal clock of the brain may lag and fall behind. Even taking a few minutes to rest and relax the mind can replenish energy. Sleeping pills may help for sleep, however continual use can cause dependency. Pills may not provide the proper NREM and REM cycles of sleep, either.

For those who don’t get enough sleep and drink caffeine to stay awake, this essentially scrambles the brain’s wiring and can cover up, but not eliminate, the exhaustion, as the brain can go into overdrive. Paranoia, fear, and skittishness occur in some individuals who have caffeine, and this can create more stress on the body that leads to exhaustion and disembodiment.

Electronic use before bed can disrupt healthy sleep patterns, as blue light replicates daytime and affects the body’s internal clock schedule. Use specific apps or tools to reduce blue light, or leave at least 20 minutes between electronic use and bed to support healthier sleep patterns.

Candida and Mental Health

If sleep is disrupted or needed in excessive amounts, the body’s immune or digestive system may be compromised. Likewise, a compromised immune system can overexert the body and create problems with sleep patterns and mental function.

Candida affects the liver, which transforms toxins into a non-toxic state and removed from the bloodstream. If too many toxins, such as excessive viral, fungi, or parasites, pass through, then the liver can’t filter the blood quickly enough. The still-toxic blood spreads throughout the body, including the brain. Take a candida quiz to find out what other symptoms may be present, and if the cause for brain fog, dizziness, and other head-related symptoms could be the cause of candida.

Other Considerations

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are present in our daily lives with computers, cell phones, electric razors, and any other form of technological devices. Electrical transmissions in higher doses or for extended periods of time can stimulate muscles, nerves, and other biological parts of the bodies as people are active electrically, even in the digestive system and especially the brain. This includes nausea, headaches, equilibrium, and other drunk-like sensations.

Lyme Disease may infect the brain and spinal cord, causing anxiety, memory fog, and other emotional or brain-related symptoms. People’s bodies react to Lyme in different ways, but one of the biggest signs of a deeper Lyme disease infection is having no prior symptoms to brain-related concerns in the past.

Blood tests are not always reliable, as Lyme can disguise itself in the body and has multiple strains that bloodwork cannot always detect. However, the brain becomes inflamed, so controlling inflammation and getting plenty of rest while reducing stress in life while working to diagnose a potential Lyme infection is important to maintain health.

Exposure to heavy metals can cause a neurologic disorder known as toxic encephalopathy. This depletes oxygen to the brain, affects neurons and nerve function, and can hinder nutrient absorption. Organic solvents and other chemicals are used widely in many occupational jobs and work places. Toxic encephalopathy is diagnosed with a thorough neurological examination.

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Diet and Health

Some people have reported that removing dairy improved their symptoms with disassociation and disorientation significantly, as dairy is a common allergen that can cause digestive upset, inflammation, mucus, and mental fog. Cervical pillows are another option to support better sleep positioning, reduce strain and nerve tension in the body, and improve headaches or other head-related concerns. These pillows come in different forms, and any discomfort felt indicates that the shape is not correct for the individual.

Reducing foods that cause inflammation (such as dairy and gluten), removing sugar, and following a candida diet even if candida is not a cause may reduce symptoms. Taking a multivitamin targeted toward digestive health such as CanXida Restore is important as well. Multivitamins contain B vitamins for cognitive function and minerals for overall health (but if exposed to many chemicals, go through a neurological examination with your health practitioner to ensure there’s no poisoning), and CanXida Restore has higher amounts than average formulas for brain and nervous system support.

Abby is a mother of three, divorced from her husband, and living on her own. For the last year, she has noticed a growing problem with constipation and hard bowel movements, and has seen her hair thin out at a rapid pace over the last six months.

She has tried supplements for stress reduction, magnesium and herbs for constipation, and formulas for hair which have done nothing for her. She has tried vegetarianism to help her constipation, and it has worked a little, however she still struggles.

Abby is tight on money and not able to visit her doctor as much as she’d like, but preliminary tests show that she is in good health for her age. She wants to know if the cause for her health issues could be candida or another underlying concern so that she can start to heal and know exactly what to ask about the next time she does see her doctor.

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair works in three or four cycles, depending on the source of information. The three cycle definition includes the anagen phase: when the hair grows, catagen phase: when the skin detaches blood flow to the strand which shrinks the follicle, and telogen phase: when hair sheds and the follicle lays in a dormant, or restful, state.

The four cycle definition includes the exogen phase: the shedding phase of the hair when the strand detaches. In the four cycle definition, the telogen phase is strictly the dormant phase. Not all hair grows at once, and each follicle has its own cycle.

Thinning hair is natural as people age, and genetics play a major role. However, hormones, physical or emotional stress, health problems, and other factors can send signals to the brain to induce more exogen and telogen phases where strands shed and no new hair grows.

Losing hair can happen fast, or may be subtle for several months as growth cycles are a gradual process. Supplements can take 1-4 months to work depending on the individual, but can only have a small effect if underlying health problems are present.

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Understanding Constipation

Constipation occurs when there is an imbalanced diet, dehydration in the body, physical or emotional stress, and other underlying health conditions such as candida. Bowel movements become backed up, and this waste becomes prone to entering the blood stream and causing further health problems.

One symptom of constipation is hair loss, as constipation is a stress on the body regardless of whether or not the individual is stressed in life.

Stress, Candida, and Other Health Considerations

Anxiety, sleep deprivation, and stress are important factors that affect a healthy digestive system and hair. Stress stiffens the body and creates more work on the digestive tract. A lack of sleep deprives the body from a healthy circadian cycle, thus creating internal stress as the body has to work on overdrive.

Having physical stress such as an injury, childbirth, or severe flu or cold can trigger hair to shed faster. The effects of physical damage or poor health are often noticed with hair, though the hair loss is usually delayed and will fix itself within a couple of months of the body healing.

A candida infection can cause both hair loss and constipation. Taking a quiz to determine how likely an infection is can help determine what steps may be taken depending on severity. Other health conditions may cause hair loss and constipation in addition to candida.

Autoimmune diseases such as alopecia aereata, when the immune system attacks hair follicles, can cause stress on the body and cause constipation as well. Missing hair from alopecia aereata typically grows back within half a year, however if there is an underlying health problem, hair loss may continue. Psoriasis, an inflamed and flaking area of skin, may also occur on the head and cause hair loss. Psoriasis is another autoimmune disease, and can be triggered by dry skin, constipation, stress, and other factors.

Autoimmune diseases are associated with leaky gut, a condition where holes in the intestines allow particles to enter the bloodstream. The immune system treats these particles as a threat, and may start attacking parts of the body in the process. Constipation may contribute to leaky gut, since backup from waste can escape through intestinal gaps.

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive and does not produce enough of the hormone. This can cause slow the body down, reduce immune support, hinder supplement absorption, and cause weight gain in addition to constipation and hair loss.

Nutrition

Taking too much iron, or a form of iron that the body doesn’t break down and absorb well, will cause constipation. Both excessive iron and an iron deficiency contribute to hair loss. If taking iron supplements, check with your doctor or naturopath to ensure that they are needed. Iron formulas with Vitamin B-12 and Vitamin C help absorb iron and prevent constipation. Also check to magnesium levels, as a deficiency is another source of constipation.

Too much fiber contributes to hair loss and, though counterintuitive, constipation. Fiber absorbs water, and if the body isn’t hydrated enough to support the amount of fiber, stools can harden and become difficult to excrete. Excessive amounts of fiber can slow down the digestive tract and inhibit protein absorption. A lack of protein causes hair loss, as the brain prompts follicles to go into the telogen phase as a defense for malnutrition.

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To promote healthy digestion, probiotics are important to reduce bad bacteria. A strong formula like Canxida Restore contains a blend of strains to work on whole body health. Since hair loss can be from an abundance or deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body, knowing which supplements to take may be difficult.

A well-balanced supplement to target digestive health is important. Canxida Rebuild is a multivitamin with a moderate amount of iron, Vitamin A, and other nutrients to ensure that the body does not develop an excess of these nutrients. Extra Vitamin C and B-12 in this formula target digestive help, nutrient absorption, and other key factors that can support healthy digestion, stress, and hair.

While the causes for constipation and hair loss can be frustrating with a variety of health considerations, developing a healthy lifestyle with diet, supplements, good sleep patterns and maintaining stress can reduce the symptoms while the underlying causes are evaluated.

Rita is an older woman who loves singing, painting, and playing tag with her grandchildren. For the last few months, she has felt under the weather so often that she’s forgotten what being healthy and full of energy is like.

She often has canker sores in her mouth, and oral medications have stopped working. She says that there are other problems affecting her mouth, such as sore gums or strips of skin that come off of the cheeks. She’s woken up with slits on the edge of her tongue before, though there is no bleeding and the slight numbness goes away within a day (though eating can be difficult).

Rita has gone to different doctors, but has had bad luck finding a doctor who will listen to her, and none of their diagnoses or prescriptions have healed the problem. She asked what could be going on since she has never experienced any of these symptoms in her mouth or immune system before. She thinks it may be a candida infection, but wants to make sure before she adjusts her diet and takes her health into her own hands.

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Canker Sores and the Immune System

Canker sores are the most common type of sore in the mouth. They can be white or gray and have a red border. They can appear on the tongue, the back area on the roof of the mouth, and inside the lips and cheeks. People can confuse canker sores with cold sores (fever blisters), however these two are not the same: cold sores are a type of herpes that are highly contagious and appear outside the mouth on the lips, under the nose, or on the chin.

With canker sores, there is often a burning or tingling sensation before the sores emerge. Tissue damage such as biting on the inside of a lip or irritating dental appliances, stress, and sun exposure are believed to be the biggest cause for canker sores.

A weakened immune system can also cause canker sores, along with vitamin deficiencies which will be discussed later in this article. Immune disorders such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease can cause canker sores as well, and allergies may trigger a canker sore to appear. In more severe canker sores, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general sluggishness are not uncommon.

Other Oral Health Considerations

Discomfort and pain in the mouth without signs of canker sores can be the cause of other health conditions. GERD is a reflux disease where stomach acid can return up to the esophagus and even the mouth. This can cause heartburn and a sore mouth, and is also not an ideal environment for oral health because of the acidity.

Biting the tongue during sleep can result in cuts at the edge of the tongue. Even if sleeping, stress from the day or poor sleep cycles can cause anxiety during periods of rest, and the body may react.

Skin stripping off from the cheeks may be due to biting the cheeks during sleep as well. Excessive spicy foods can irritate the skin, and allergies or other sensitivities can cause skin to die and strip off from the cheeks. Many conventional toothpastes, especially with whitening ingredients, can cause this problem. Food allergies can also cause tongue, cheek, and gum responses.

Food allergies can begin in the mouth with numbing, tingling, or itching as soon as a bite of food is taken. If the lips, face, tongue, or throat swell shortly after consuming certain foods, this inflammatory response may also be from allergies. Those who are allergic to pollen, grass, and other environmental factors may have an allergic reaction to foods even if the foods are not what the body is allergic to. This is known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS).

For those allergic to pollen: legumes, nuts, carrots, celery, and pitted fruits can sometimes trigger OAS. Ragweed allergies can be triggered by melons, tomatoes, and oranges. Those allergic to mugwort may find that onions, garlic; crucifer vegetables like cabbage and broccoli; spices such as coriander, and pepper will trigger mouth irritation. Baking or cooking these vegetables and fruits can reduce the likelihood of an allergic reaction.

Even if allergic reactions don’t occur, canker sores may still appear from foods that generally cause irritation. These include acidic vegetables such as tomatoes, citrus fruits such as lemons, and spicy foods or sauces.

Immune System Considerations

Poor diet and exercise, allergies, and stress are a few factors that–in addition to causing canker sores–can weaken the immune system and create a feeling of constantly being under the weather. When the immune system is continually attacking foreign particles, overall health diminishes. Whether the particles are dangerous such as viruses, parasites, or excessive candida, or harmless such as food particles that have slipped into the bloodstream, the immune system treats any substance out of place as a threat.

The immune system may start attacking the body, too, if particles become too frequent. This immune response leads to autoimmune diseases, which is often a result of extreme candida infections or leaky gut. The adrenal glands, which aid in both immune function and energy, can become overworked and lead to adrenal fatigue. Managing a healthy diet, supporting the immune system, and getting plenty of rest are important for healthy adrenals and immune function.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Several vitamin and mineral deficiencies can alter oral health. B vitamins, especially B-1 (thiamin), B-2 (riboflavin), B-6 (pyridoxine), B-9 (folate), and cobalamin (B-12) affect the nervous system, including those in the mouth. Iron and zinc deficiencies also affect oral health.

Zinc benefits digestive health and the immune system. If candida overgrowth is present, the fungi send out destroyers that absorb and kill stored zinc in the body. Find out more about the benefits of zinc as well as a simple zinc test to determine if you have a deficiency.

Nutritional Considerations

Probiotics are well-known for digestive health, but what many people miss is that digestion begins in the mouth when food is chewed. Probiotics also support healthy immune functions, and are is critical to fight infections and prevent sores. Check out Canxida Restore for a thorough description of specific strains in the formula to support digestion and the immune system.

Coconut oil is a healthy fat shown to support brain health, immune function, and digestive wellbeing. It has healing properties which can be beneficial for oral health. Reducing inflammation in the body is also important for gum health and sores. Turmeric and ginger can be consumed as a supplement, or freshly grated and made into a tea. Both contain properties to support healthy energy, digestion, and inflammatory response.

For healing and prevention of mouth sores, along with overall health, several ingredients in Canxida Remove have immune-boosting qualities. Garlic, grapefruit seed extract, and oregano oil are well-known for preventing and reducing the effects of colds and other viral attacks. These ingredients also support the body in destroying parasites and reducing fungi which includes candida infections. Neem oil, also in Canxida Remove, is known for its many healing properties and is used both internally and externally to prevent infections, sickness, and for its antibacterial properties.

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If canker sores become unbearable with pain, spread around the mouth, don’t show signs of improvement within three weeks, or are causing a fever over three days, contact a dentist or doctor. Simple diet changes that avoid acidic and spicy foods, being aware of allergic reactions to foods, and focusing on digestive health for overall immune support are the first steps for overcoming a feeling of chronic sickness and preventing sores and other concerns in the mouth.