What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Candida Albicans Allergy Blood Test to measure the IgE antibody levels in the blood to help detect an allergy to the fungus candida albicans.
What is Candida?
Candida is often classified as a type of yeast. However, it's a unique fungus (or mold) and is sometimes called pseudo yeast. This pseudo yeast is capable of causing fungal infections in humans. Additionally, candida albicans is the most common species, and it typically affects the skin, mouth, intestinal tract, vagina, and other moist, warm, and dark areas of the body. This fungus species can also be found in soil and organic debris, but is rarely recorded in airborne spore surveys.
There's some debate about whether Candida causes allergies. Nevertheless, many studies indicate that it plays a crucial role in developing allergy-related diseases. In addition, some experts believe recurring Candida albicans imbalances can result in chronic sensitivity to this pseudo yeast. At the same time, Candida albicans is naturally found in the human body. Several health conditions can sometimes cause an overgrowth, such as abnormal hormone levels, stress, and various immunity factors. Although Aspergillus fumigatus, another mold, is the most common cause of a severe lung condition called allergic bronchopulmonary mycoses (ABPM), Candida is also a known cause of this disease.
How do I manage my Candida Albicans allergy?
Individuals with Candida albicans allergy may also be allergic to other types of yeast and mold. This cross-reactivity occurs when the immune system identifies similarly structured or biologically related proteins or components in different substances, thus triggering an adverse reaction.
Because Candida albicans can be found in the human body and the surrounding environment, individuals must take many preventative steps to reduce overgrowth or overexposure. To avoid an overgrowth of Candida in the body, regulation of this pseudo yeast allergy may require eliminating foods that contain yeast, such as baked goods, some alcohol, bread (sourdough), and specific multivitamins.
In regards to reducing overexposure to Candida in the environment, individuals should implement the following practices:
- Limit outdoor time during seasons when mold is most active.
- When disturbing or moving plant materials, wear a mask.
- Avoid barns or silos that contain hay, straw, and peat moss.
- Use certified asthma and allergy-friendly filter attachment on heating and air conditioning units, and change filters regularly.
- Keep indoor humidity levels low to avoid creating an environment where mold is less likely to thrive.
- Open doors between spaces, move furniture away from the walls, and operate fans to improve room airflow.
- Repair any leaks, check windows for condensation, and remove sources of dampness.
When should I order a Candida Albicans Allergy Blood Test?
Individuals may order this Candida Albicans Allergy Blood Test if they have experienced symptoms related to candida allergies. An allergic reaction may vary depending on the individual and range from mild to severe. Individuals may experience an allergic reaction within minutes to hours after exposure. Common symptoms of candida allergies may include one or more of the following:
- Fatigue
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Aching
- Congestion
- Postnasal drip
- Hives
- Itching
- Red or watery eyes
- Lightheadedness
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Sore Throat
- Trouble breathing or wheezing
A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur in some cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- Rapid or increased pulse
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
