Oral Thrush

Oral Thrush is a mouth infection caused by Candida fungus. The fungus is also commonly known as yeast. This infection can become problematic due to its recurring nature and the ability to infect other parts of the body such as yeast infections in the vaginal area and diaper rash in babies.

The people affected by Thrush can be of any age group and sex, though it is mostly seen in toddlers as well as babies. Even older adults are not immune to Candida infection. It is also common among immuno-compromised patients such as AIDS patients

Oral Thrush Causes

Thrush is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It is a fungus, which is normally present in the skin, mouth and the digestive tract of the people with out causing any problem. The activity of Candida fungus is closely controlled by other bacteria inside the mouth and elsewhere. Its when this control over the growth of the yeast is lost, problems occur. Illnesses, medications and stress can cause an imbalance of bacteria in the mouth(which control the fungus). This is sufficient enough for the growth of the fungus Candida in a countless manner, which ultimately leads to infection.

Some examples of medications which upset the microbial balance of mouth include corticosteroids, birth pills and antibiotics.

People with HIV infection, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer and dry mouth are more likely to be infected by candida fungus.

Smoking and ill-fitting dentures are also risk factors.

Oral Thrush Symptoms

People who face such kind of infections can suffer from it for a long period of time. Some of the common symptoms of thrush include, occurrence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in the mouth. These lesions normally occur on the surface of the tongue and inner cheeks. Sometimes it also occurs in the palate region of the mouth, tonsils, gums and the back region of the throat. These lesions can be painful and bleeding can occur from them, when you brush your teeth or rather try to scrape them. If lesions reach into the esophagus, then it can lead to severe complications like difficulty in swallowing food, fever and a feeling like the food getting stuck in the throat or the mid- chest area. Thrush can even spread beyond the esophagus area to the extremely crucial internal organs like liver, lungs etc.

Oral Thrush Diagnosis

Thrush can easily be diagnosed by oral examination. If there are lesions present inside, then diagnosis can be confirmed with the help of a microscopic examination of the affected tissue. If Thrush reaches into the esophagus, then you may be required to go through multiple tests.

Oral Thrush Treatment

The treatment of Thrush is done according to the severity of the problem. For people with weak immune systems, it can become much more difficult to get rid off. Antifungal medications are available, which are given to the patient for the duration of 2 weeks. These medicines are readily available in liquids, lozenges and tablet form. Treatment is designed specifically according to the age of the patient and the cause of infection. If there is any other underlying health problem which may be stimulating candida growth, it needs to be taken care of aswell.

Oral Thrush Prevention

Some prevention tips which reduce the risk of candida infection.:

· Brush twice a day and avoid artificial sprays or mouthwashes. This is because they are mainly responsible for creating imbalance between the microorganisms in the mouth.

· Visit your dentist regularly, especially if you are suffering from diabetes or wear braces.

· Avoid a huge amount of sugar and alcohol and give a shot at quitting the cig (if you smoke): It not only causes problems for you but the others around you.

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