Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection in the mouth and throat caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. This yeast is normally present in small amounts in the mouth, but certain conditions can lead to its overgrowth, resulting in infection.
Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Common signs of oral thrush include:
- White Patches: Creamy white or velvety lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils, and throat. These patches may have a slightly fuzzy texture and can often be wiped away, sometimes leaving red areas that may bleed.
- Soreness and Discomfort: A burning sensation or general discomfort in the mouth, making it painful to eat or drink.
- Loss of Taste: A reduced sense of taste or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
- Redness and Bleeding: Inflammation and redness in the affected areas, with potential bleeding when the lesions are disturbed.
- Cracking at the Corners of the Mouth: Small, painful cracks or fissures at one or both corners of the mouth, known as angular cheilitis.
In infants, oral thrush may present as a white coating on the tongue that resembles cottage cheese and cannot be easily wiped off. Babies with oral thrush may also be reluctant to feed.
NHS Information on Oral Thrush
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Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of oral thrush:
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections like oral thrush.
- Antibiotic Use: Prolonged use of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth, leading to yeast overgrowth.
- Asthma Inhalers: Using asthma inhalers, especially without proper oral hygiene, can increase the risk of developing oral thrush.
- Cancer Treatments: Treatments like chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making individuals more prone to infections such as oral thrush.
- Dentures: Wearing dentures, especially if they are ill-fitting or not removed at night, can create an environment conducive to yeast growth.
Help at the Pharmacy & Treatment Options
Treatment for oral thrush typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and individual patient factors:
- Topical Antifungals: First-line treatment often includes antifungal mouth gels or liquids, such as miconazole from the pharmacy or nystatin on GP prescription. These are applied directly to the affected areas and are suitable for adults, children, and babies over the age of 4 months.
- Oral Antifungals: For more severe or unresponsive cases, oral antifungal medications like fluconazole may be prescribed by a GP. Fluconazole works by killing the fungus causing the infection and is available in capsules or liquid form.
Preventive Measures
To reduce the risk of developing oral thrush, consider the following preventive measures:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly to keep your mouth clean.
- Rinse Your Mouth: After using inhalers or taking antibiotics, rinse your mouth with water to remove any residue that could promote yeast growth.
- Proper Denture Care: Remove dentures at night, clean them thoroughly, and ensure they fit well to prevent irritation.
- Limit Sugar Intake: Reducing the consumption of sugary foods and drinks can help prevent yeast overgrowth.
- Manage Underlying Conditions: Effectively managing conditions like diabetes can reduce the risk of infections such as oral thrush.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if:
- You or your baby have symptoms of oral thrush, especially if under 4 months old.
- Symptoms persist after one week of treatment with over-the-counter antifungal medications.
- You experience difficulty or pain when swallowing.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for effective relief, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions.
Summary
By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for oral thrush, individuals can take proactive steps to manage and prevent this common fungal infection