I sometimes get asked if the elderly can get Candida. The truth is that you have a pulse and you’re breathing; you can get Candida. There are several reasons why the elderly are actually more prone to Candida infections. Often older adults are less physically active, they may be on multiple medications, and their digestive system has undergone age-related changes, including a reduction in stomach acid.
Problems with dentures, oral hygiene, and proper chewing also contribute to increased rates of Candida infection in the elderly. Vaginal yeast infections and oral yeast infections are just some of the conditions seen in older adults. Both older men and older women present with fungal infections of the toenails – although this is not always due to Candida.
Related articles:
- Unexplained Joint Pains & Candida Connection
- Recurring Ringworm: Can It Be Candida?
- 10 Simple & Quick Tips for Crushing Female Yeast Infections
- Does Candida Cause Sinus Infections, Headaches, and Fatigue?
- All You Need To Know About Rhodotorula
The tragedy is that older adults don’t often get appropriate treatment for the Candida. The elderly are also sometimes less internet-savvy, and therefore may have limited information about Candida. Without enough information about Candida, it is hard to advocate for yourself when seeking medical care. Instead, older people may have their concerns brushed off by their doctor while not being offered the same investigations as younger people. As a result, the elderly may suffer the ill effects of Candida infections for years and years.
Sources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31732935
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27808595
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28049008
