Help for endometriosis

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http://www.endo-resolved.com/stories.html

 

 

http://altmed.creighton.edu/endometriosis/candida_connection.htm

 

 

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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