CANDIDA ESOPHAGITIS

[DEB IN NJ]

Can anyone tell me how this is caused??

[John W.]

Hi:

This is a simple fungal infection of the esophagus. It is readily cured by Nystatin suspension (a liquid) or oral mycelex. Don't be alarmed...it's acutally fairly common. It clears up pretty quickly

Hope this helps,
JOHN W. (R.Ph)

[DEB IN NJ]

Thanks for your help in answering my qustion.  When my Dr. told me I had this, he said he only sees this in cancer, diabetes and AIDS patients.  Well I was tested for all that and everything was normal.  I don't understand how I would have gotten it.  I do have a lot of stomach problems and are currently taking Zoloft and Klonopin for panic disorder, OCD and post-traumatic stress disorder.  I asked the Dr. if this could be sexually transmitted and he said no.  Not to get too graphic, what if I had a vaginal yeast infection, had intercourse and then performed oral sex?  Could this have been transmitted from me to him and then back to me in the esophagus.  Your help would be very much appreciated.  Thank You,  Debbie

[John W.]

Hi:

I suppose that your hypothetical is possible theoretically, but it has to be very rare. Candida is not listed as a sexually transmitted disease, so I'd have to agree with your Doctor.

As for how you could have got it, this is a mystery. Generally, candida presents in immunocompromised people (those with AIDS or Cancers). Since you've been cleared, there are some other reasons for this overgrowth of yeast. These might include antibiotic use or poor dental hygeine.

Hope this helps,
JOHN W. (R.Ph)

[DEB IN NJ]

Hi again

I haven't taken any antibiotics in years.  My oral hygiene is great.  I go to the dentist and brush the s**t out of my teeth.  I'm surprised I haven't worn them out! I just don't understand.

[John W.]

Do you use inhaled steroids for asthma? if so, many of the steroid inhalers (i.e. Flovent, beclovent, vanceril) cause this problem because steroids contribute to the over-growth of fungi which lead to thrush and candida esophagitis. If you, or anyone else uses these, it is best to rinse your mouth immediately after use.

Just a thought,
JOHN W.

[constantconstipation]

Having been treated for candidiasis for many years (can't stop eating sweets!), you could have gotten the esopha. from giving oral sex.  Yeast infections, i.e, candidiasis, are passed back and forth from the two partners.  If the partner isn't treated, you will keep getting it back.  Fortunately, treatment is easy.  Go to a health food store and get Nutribiotics capsules.  Have him take 1 per day for about 10 days and use a condom or abstain during this period.  For your yeast infections, also take the Nutribiotics and one of the 7 day yeast vaginal suppositories avail. over the counter.  Best advice, cut down on sugar and white flour products, and especially beer (really high in yeast).