Is it Yeast overgrowth or something else?
Do you have yeast? That was a key question with a new patient who had gastrointestinal symptoms for years. According to her research on the internet, the answer would be yes, but guess what we found?
After taking a simple stool sample, we found that she had a raging Helicobacter pylori infection, Celiac genetic variation, low in short chain fatty acids, high in long chain fatty acids, flora dysbiosis and a parasite, but no yeast.
Sometimes the internet is confusing because all of her symptoms looked like an overgrowth of systemic yeast. Patients will self treat a yeast infection that does not exist and still have painful symptoms after a rigorous cleanse or dietary change.
Even though patients often know themselves best - tests are invaluable. Testing can illuminate the clinical picture by zeroing in on the underlying cause. Once that is identified we can construct an intelligent treatment protocol that is effective, saves time and kickstarts the recovery process.