What Is Thrush?

The fungus Candida albicans causes the condition known as thrush, a common form of yeast infection affecting the lining of the mouth. The condition has three main sources, occurring in denture wearers, babies and immuno-compromised patients.

Symptoms of thrush

The milky white formations on the tongue and inner cheek surfaces seen in thrush result from a fungal infection. The lesions may cause pain. When scraped, the white sores may bleed. If left uncontrolled, the fungus spreads to the tonsils, roof of the mouth, back of the throat and gums. Dry mouth, accompanied with a loss of taste and cracks in the corners of the mouth, characterize the full array of thrush symptoms.

Vulnerability to thrush

People most prone to developing thrush include babies, denture-wearers, takers of certain medications, such as antibiotics or corticosteroids, cancer patients, smokers, diabetics and those suffering from anemia. The underlying cause of thrush in each case consists of a compromised immune system, where the body’s ability to fight off and balance the presence foreign bacteria and microbes weakens. Antibiotics and inhaled or oral corticosteroids may also interfere with the body’s natural protection mechanisms; problems like thrush usually occur through prolonged use of these medicines.

Treatment of thrush

Once a physician has diagnosed thrush, the treatment process differs according to the health of the patient. For normal adults and children, doctors recommend eating unsweetened yogurt and taking acidophilus in a capsule or liquid form. For patients with underlying weakened immune systems, a doctor typically prescribes antifungal medication in a lozenge, tablet or liquid form. Should the fungus grow resistant to treatment, an antibiotic such as amphotecerin B provides a curative solution.

No matter the cause of thrush, a doctor can discuss lifestyle changes and practices effective in preventing recurrence of the infection.