Thrush (Oral)

Thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by the Candida albicans fungus. It is characterized by the appearance of white patches on the mucous membranes of the mouth, tongue, and throat.

Symptoms

• White patches or lesions on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, gums, tonsils, and throat
• Redness and inflammation of the affected areas
• Pain or discomfort when eating, swallowing, or speaking
• Burning sensation in the mouth and throat
• Bad taste or metallic taste in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is getting stuck in the throat
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth
• Loss of taste

Causes and Risk Factors

Thrush can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Weakened immune system due to illness, medication, or medical treatment
• Antibiotic use, which can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the mouth
• Corticosteroid use, which can suppress the immune system
• Dentures or other oral appliances that are not properly cleaned and maintained
• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Vitamin deficiencies, such as iron, folate, or vitamin B12 deficiency
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation
• Diabetes or other metabolic disorders

Treatments

Treatment for thrush typically involves antifungal medications, which can be administered topically or orally. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the fungal infection and prevent its recurrence.

• Topical antifungal medications, such as clotrimazole (Mycelex) or nystatin (Mycostatin), which are applied directly to the affected areas
• Oral antifungal medications, such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox), which are taken by mouth
• Antifungal lozenges or troches, which are dissolved in the mouth to release the medication
• Oral rinses or mouthwashes that contain antifungal agents

Home Remedies and Prevention

In addition to medical treatment, there are several home remedies and preventive measures that can help manage thrush:

• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
• Rinse the mouth with salt water or a baking soda solution to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks, which can contribute to the growth of Candida
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production, which can help neutralize acid and wash away bacteria
• Avoid smoking or tobacco use
• Wear dentures or oral appliances properly and clean them regularly
• Get regular dental check-ups to monitor for signs of thrush or other oral health issues

Complications

If left untreated, thrush can lead to several complications, including:

• Spread of the infection to other parts of the body, such as the esophagus or digestive tract
• Increased risk of developing other infections, such as bacterial or viral infections
• Dental problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease
• Nutritional deficiencies due to difficulty eating or swallowing
• Discomfort and pain that can affect daily activities and quality of life