Allergy, Candida Albicans in Ganguly Bagan, Kolkata

Candida albicans is a form of yeast present in the human body. The immune system and other bacteria generally keep the growth of yeast under check. However, a few things can trigger overgrowth and potentially lead to chronic Candida Albicans sensitivity. The increased sensitivity is commonly known as a yeast allergy.

An Allergy test for Candida Albicans can help determine if an individual is severely allergic to it. It is a blood test that looks for the IgE specific to Candida Albicans in the individual’s blood. Candida-specific IgE antibodies are usually found in asthma and rhinitis patients.

The test is recommended by healthcare providers when they notice symptoms of hypersensitivities in an individual. This can include:

• abdominal swelling
• itchy rashes
• breathing difficulties
• congestion
• dizziness
• joint pain
• gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhoea, bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort
• anaphylaxis, in rare cases.

Antihistamines are commonly used to help people who experience minor allergic responses, such as rashes due to yeast. However, in cases involving anaphylactic reactions, immediate medical attention is necessary. Anaphylaxis can be fatal if not treated with an epinephrine injector.

Avoiding foods containing yeast is the most effective treatment for a yeast allergy. Such foods include:

• Baked goods
• Table spreads like marmite and vegemite
• Alcoholic beverages
• Certain cheeses
• Premade stocks
• Foods with vinegar
• Aged meats
• Buttermilk, yoghurt
• Fermented foods
• Mushrooms
• Tofu

Any food that has been opened or stored for a long time can also cause one to experience symptoms of yeast allergy.

When a person who is allergic to yeast consumes it, he or she may experience a variety of symptoms and issues, including trouble concentrating, mental disorders, ear infections, and much more. People with asthma may also experience allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis (ABPM) and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). These complications occur when Candida albicans populate the asthmatics' bronchial tracts, leading to severe asthma symptoms and limited lung function.

Experts say that diabetes mellitus or a compromised immune system may be associated with an increased risk for yeast allergy. It is caused by an inflammatory and allergic reaction to mold. The symptoms might include coughing, breathlessness, fever, weakness or malaise, and a cough that produces brown flecks or crimson mucus. So, getting an allergy test for Candida Albicans is important if you notice symptoms that might be related to yeast consumption.

Apollo 24|7 offers such a blood test for Candida Albicans.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Saibal Moitra, Allergist and clinical immunologist, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata.