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Candida
Experience comprehensive, tailored Candida care at GastroDoxs in Houston with Dr. Scott. Our board-certified gastroenterologist combines advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support to address yeast imbalances, from oral thrush to gut overgrowth. Regain your health and well-being today.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Taking antibiotics or steroids - reduces healthy bacteria and allows yeast to grow.
Weakened immune system - conditions like diabetes or HIV increase your risk.
Hormonal changes - pregnancy or birth control pills can disrupt balance.
Hot, humid climates - such as Houston's weather, which promotes fungal growth.
Signs and Symptoms
White patches inside the mouth (oral thrush).
Bloating, gas, or changes in bowel habits (gut overgrowth).
Itching, burning, or thick discharge (vaginal yeast infection).
Fatigue or achy feelings as yeast dies off (“candida die-off”).
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He assesses symptoms based on the type of Candida infection�such as white oral patches, vaginal itching, skin rashes, or fever in hospitalized patients. Risk factors like recent antibiotic use, diabetes, or immunosuppression are also reviewed.
Laboratory Tests
Depending on the site, Dr. Scott may order:
KOH prep or Gram stain for skin, oral, or vaginal samples
Fungal culture of the affected area
Blood cultures if invasive candidiasis is suspected
Beta-D-glucan test or PCR for fungal DNA in serious systemic infections
Endoscopy (if needed)
If esophageal or gastrointestinal candidiasis is suspected, Dr. Scott may perform an upper endoscopy to look for white plaques and take biopsies for confirmation.
Advanced Testing (for systemic cases)
In cases of suspected deep organ involvement, imaging such as CT or MRI may be used alongside lab tests to identify abscesses or fungal spread.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for candida infections.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Reducing sugars and processed carbohydrates
Eating more fiber, low-sugar vegetables, and lean proteins
Adding probiotic foods like yogurt or a supplement
2. Medications
Fluconazole (Diflucan) - oral tablet for systemic yeast control
Nystatin - swish-and-swallow liquid for oral thrush
Echinocandins - IV therapy for severe or systemic infections
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopy to evaluate gut inflammation or identify candida-related lesions
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is candida a sexually transmitted disease?
No. It's usually caused by imbalance in your body, not from sex.
How long does candida treatment take?
Most people feel better in 2 to 4 weeks with proper care.
What are candida die-off symptoms?
You might feel tired, achy, or get mild headaches as the yeast dies.
What is the ICD-10 code for candida infection?
B37 is the main code; sub-codes vary by infection site.
How do I prevent candida from coming back?
Stick to a healthy diet, avoid too much sugar, and use probiotics.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Most Houston-area plans cover tests and prescriptions. Our team will verify your benefits.
