In the 1980's there was a
huge surge of research and speculation about the connection between Candida
albicans (a type of yeast), allergies, and endometriosis. Much of this
research has been regarded as a fad, and viewed by some as
"quackery." However, there seems to be a resurgence of interest
in endometriosis and its possible connection to candida infection.
Candida albicans is a type of yeast that causes yeast
infections in the bowel, digestive tract, and mouth. Most women, however,
are familiar with vaginal candidiasis, or the
common "yeast infection." Candida is present in normal amounts
in the human bowel, in both men and women. Women tend to have more trouble
with yeast infections due to high estrogen levels (during pregnancy, right
before menstruation, with birth control pills).
Back in the 80's
when most of this research was being conducted, there was much speculation about
the connection between allergies and women with endometriosis. Karen Lamb
was one of many researches who demonstrated that women with endometriosis have a
statistically significant higher incidence of allergic disease (eczema, hay
fever, food and chemical allergies), than those without endometriosis.
These women also had a significantly higher incidence of yeast infections.
Studies done by Steven Witkins demonstrated that women with a history of
recurrent, vaginal yeast infections had an immune defect which led to increased
production of prostaglandin E2 (responsible, in
part, for uterine stimulation and cramping). In addition, he found this
same PGE2 inhibited the appropriate immune
response to candida.
Proponents of the candida-endometriosis theory suggest that women who have
endometriosis have
exacerbations in symptoms due to a co-existing allergy to candida yeast.
When exposed to the candida, it begins a cascade of events. The antigen (candida)
causes the production of histamine in the body, which triggers special cells,
called macrophages, to produce PGE2 . This
"overproduction" of PGE2 from the candida allergy, causes more inflammation and pain at the endometriotic sites
within the body. To further complicate the picture, Witkins demonstrated
that PGE2 inhibits the appropriate immune
response to candida, rendering the immune system incapable of eradicating this
yeast--creating a vicious cycle.
Supporters of the candida-allergy-endometriosis theory
advocate a four step treatment regime.
- History and physical with allergy
testing. The allergy test should include foods, chemicals, candida,
and natural hormones such as LH and estrogen.
- Desensitization, or immunotherapy.
Patient is instructed to avoid all yeast foods (breads, bagels, muffins) and
sugars. They are then given dilute doses of the allergic substance (as
an injection or oral drops under the tongue). The theory is that over
time, the allergic response will be reduced or eliminated with these
immunotherapy drops/injections.
- Antifungal treatment is also initiated to
reduce the candida in the body. Diflucan is a popular antifungal, that
has few side effects. Some antifungals can produce a
"die-off" reaction from rapidly killing the yeast. Rapid
killing causes yeast proteins to be released into the body of the person who
is hypersensitive, causing the person to become even more symptomatic.
It is also advised to take acidophilus during treatment to help maintain
the normal bowel flora that may be killed by antifungals.
- Hormone Balancing. The patient undergoes
test for imbalances in certain hormones: Estrogen to progesterone
ratio, testosterone, cortisone, adrenal and thyroid hormones, and
dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). If hormones imbalances are found, they
should be corrected.
As with any treatment program, you should consult
your doctor before beginning any new therapies. The above mentioned
treatment regimen may require multiple physicians (allergist, endocrinologist,
Ob/Gyn) to be involved. Some may find these services coordinated by an
alternative healthcare provider in your region.
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