What is Candida?
There are 2 different levels of a Candida infestation. The first is called Mucocutaneous Candidiasis and describes infections of the mucous membranes; ie: Infections of the mouth and tongue known as Thrush (oropharyngeal candidiasis), vagina, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. Mucocutaneous infections are more common and thought of as being more "surface" or on the outer parts of the body, ie; not as deeply entrenched.
The second and stronger level of infestation is known as Disseminated Candidiasis (also called systemic candidiasis) and involves Candida in the bloodstream and infecting the organs of the body. This second type can be dangerous and even life-threatening, especially the non C Albicans types like C glabrata and C tropicalis. The longer Candida has infested a body the better chance it has gone through to the deeper levels.
Early treatment in both types helps avoid further complications.