What is Yeast Infection?

Introduction: Why Yeast Infections Need a New Approach

Recurring yeast infections aren’t just a nuisance—they’re often a sign of deeper imbalances in the body. At Patients Medical in New York City, we take an integrative approach that goes beyond antifungal creams or prescriptions. We look for the root causes of chronic Candida overgrowth and help the body restore balance naturally through functional medicine, gut health support, and hormone optimization.

What Is a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections occur when Candida albicans (a naturally occurring fungus) overgrows, disrupting the body’s delicate microbiome. Common types include:

    • Vaginal Yeast Infections: Itching, discharge, and irritation (most common in women).
    • Oral Thrush: White patches in the mouth (common in infants or immunocompromised individuals).
    • Systemic Candida: Overgrowth in the gut/bloodstream, linked to fatigue, brain fog, and chronic inflammation.

Common Symptoms of Yeast Overgrowth

Recurring infections? This signals deeper imbalances (gut, immune, or hormonal).

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop a Yeast Infection?

Rather than simply treating the surface symptoms, we investigate why Candida overgrowth is occurring in the first place. Common triggers and contributors include:

  • Imbalanced gut microbiome: Antibiotics, sugar, and stress can kill good bacteria
  • High-sugar diet: Feeds Candida and promotes overgrowth
  • Weakened immune system: From stress, illness, or nutrient deficiencies
  • Hormonal imbalance: Especially estrogen dominance or progesterone deficiency
  • Diabetes or high blood sugar: Yeast thrives in high-glucose environments
  • Chronic antibiotic or steroid use: Disrupts microbial balance
  • Leaky gut syndrome: Allows Candida to spread beyond the GI tract

Functional medicine helps us identify and address these root causes with precision and care.

Advanced Testing for Chronic Cases

We use cutting-edge labs to identify triggers:

Comprehensive stool analysis (for Candida and other fungi)

Candida antibodies (IgG, IgM, IgA)

Organic acids test (checks for fungal metabolites)

Hormone panels (estrogen dominance links to yeast)

Food sensitivity testing (inflammatory triggers)

Integrative Treatments for Yeast Infections

Nutritional Therapy

We guide you through an anti-Candida, low-sugar, anti-inflammatory nutrition plan.
May include:

  • Sugar and refined carb elimination
  • Low-mold, low-yeast food choices
  • Fermented foods to restore gut flora

Supportive herbs and nutrients

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

We use physician-supervised antifungal herbs and supplements:

  • Caprylic acid
  • Oregano oil
  • Garlic extract
  • Probiotics (Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces boulardii)
  • Digestive enzymes
  • Zinc, vitamin D, biotin

All customized based on lab results and your unique microbiome.

Gut Repair & Leaky Gut Protocols

Chronic yeast infections are often linked to poor gut barrier function. We offer:

  • L-glutamine and zinc carnosine
  • Collagen, prebiotics, and mucosal healing botanicals
  • Elimination diets to identify food triggers

Hormonal Balance

Estrogen dominance can fuel Candida overgrowth. We support hormonal harmony using:

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy (when needed)
  • Herbal adaptogens (ashwagandha, vitex, maca)
  • Thyroid and adrenal support

Stress Reduction & Immune Support

Stress weakens the immune system and worsens yeast issues. Our mind-body support includes:

  • Acupuncture
  • Meditation training
  • Immune-enhancing supplements like medicinal mushrooms, vitamin C, and reishi

Real Case Study: Olivia’s Candida Recovery

Olivia, 36, came to us after battling monthly vaginal yeast infections for over a year. She was frustrated with constant prescriptions that offered only temporary relief.

Our testing revealed:

  • Candida albicans overgrowth in the gut
  • Leaky gut and high food sensitivities
  • High estrogen and low progesterone
  • Low vitamin D and magnesium

Her personalized plan included:

  • 12-week anti-Candida nutrition protocol
  • Gut healing supplements
  • Hormone-balancing herbs
  • Vitamin D and magnesium IV therapy

The result: Olivia hasn’t had a single recurrence in over 10 months—and reports more energy, clearer skin, and a regular menstrual cycle.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 The vast majority are caused by Candida albicans, but other species may also be involved—especially in chronic or resistant cases.

 Root causes like high sugar diets, gut dysbiosis, or hormone imbalance are often overlooked in conventional treatment. Root causes like high sugar diets, gut dysbiosis, or hormone imbalance are often overlooked in conventional treatment.

 Yes. Though less common, men can develop yeast overgrowth in the mouth, genitals, or digestive tract.

Yeast infections are fungal, while BV is bacterial. Both cause discharge and irritation but require different treatments.

 Yes—with proper guidance. Functional and natural remedies can be highly effective when based on lab testing and physician support.

 Most patients see improvement within 4–6 weeks, but deep-rooted Candida issues may require a 3–4 month plan.

 Yes—Candida toxins can impact the brain and contribute to anxiety, fatigue, and brain fog.

 Absolutely. Sugar is fuel for Candida. Anti-yeast diets are often essential to lasting results.

 Yes—Candida can affect the skin, scalp, and nails. We tailor treatment accordingly.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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